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Midwest => Kansas City Renaissance Festival => Topic started by: kcdcchef on August 12, 2009, 10:12:18 AM

Title: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on August 12, 2009, 10:12:18 AM
seriously, the fifth most attended faire in the nation, is the Kansas City Renaissance Festival. hell, we even draw more than some faires that are open 12 weekends instead of our 7, and we outdraw some of those. yet, we have the smallest participation on the forums. the only people that post regularly about the kcrf are myself, a patron of 30 seasons, a teenager that lives nearby, and that is IT. and we have some of the best home grown faire acts in the country. i oughtta know, i go to kc each fall, pennsylvania renaissance faire, new york renaissance faire, pittsburgh renaissance festival, and some years maryland too. yet no one posts on here, whats up??

back to kcrf, glad to see chess is back again this season. hopefully the joust will FINALLY change. hasn't changed in 7 seasons. i can almost taste the crepe right now!!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Aniroaldawen on August 12, 2009, 11:55:50 AM
I'm a board newbie, but longtime KCRF fan!  It's my home faire, and I'm a HUGE fan of the Jolly Rogers and try to catch all their shows every time I go.  This year I attended my first renfest other than KCRF, in fact (OKRF)--and got my first garb.  I can't wait to play at KCRF again, in proper attire this time!  ;D  And ohmygod, KCRF has the BEST crepes EVER--my must-have food every time I go. 

I'm hoping to attend faire at least four days this season (last year I went five times, but this year my money situation might put a damper on that plan.  However I'll have two complimentary passes and am probably getting two tickets from mom who can get discount tix).  I'm going to Mini Faire tonight to get a bit more of a faire fix before next month after I went to the Coronation Feaste Saturday, but I can't WAIT for opening weekend--there is nothing quite like strolling around Canterbury!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on August 12, 2009, 12:04:01 PM
M'Lady and I will be attending for the first time (just coming from Iowa) and are looking forward to it.  We will be attending MnRF next weekend so have been 'preparing' for that.

Any particular 'don't miss' things - acts, food, etc))  We will be there 2 days (Labor day weekend)
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on August 12, 2009, 01:09:38 PM
Quote from: Gauwyn of Brocknell on August 12, 2009, 12:04:01 PM


Any particular 'don't miss' things - acts, food, etc))  We will be there 2 days (Labor day weekend)

    Human Chess - Best ren fest human chess I have ever seen. and i do 4-5 faires a year. always so damned funny you almost die of laughter.
                         and they find a way to get close to 50 players involved. GO!!
    Robin Hood and the Swill Pond Show - See Robin, Lady Marion, Little John, and Sherriff of Knottingham, again, very funny, excellent humor.
                         Seems they all take turns getting knocked in that filthy disgusting pond.
    Jolly Rogers - Same stage, funniest pirate humor ever, i kid younot. They are always funny as hell, one of the most attended shows there.
    Pub Sing - Other ren faires have finales that have more of a climax to them, but again, funny FUNNY FUNNY!!!! seriously, usually every player  at the festival is either there, or in the audience watching. and it is the raunchiest humor of the day, and the funniest. you will
                   laugh so hard it isnt even funny.
    Crepes - really good crepes, sweet and savory ones. the ice cream one with strawberries, almonds, and chocolate. MMMMMM!!
    Bread Bowls - Good yummy nummy soups. In bread bowls, need I say more.

have a blast. one of the few authentic feeling ren faires in the country. no pavement, landscaping that is kept up yet still feels like it is growing wild, and lanes that are shaded sooo well. ENJOY!!!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Aniroaldawen on August 12, 2009, 01:16:23 PM
The Jolly Rogers are a DEFINITE "don't miss."  They're a singing/improv comedy pirate group.  Their stuff does get quite a bit bawdy, but it's all in metaphoric terms or implied, and that makes it all the more hilarious! (Look up "Curvy Girls KCRF" on Youtube and click on the first JR result for an example.)  They've been my favorites for years and years, and they're absolutely the nicest guys ever too.  Make sure if you want to actually sit down at one of their shows that you get to the stage early--I've seen numerous crowds packed onto the benches so there was only standing room left!

The Sonic Sidhe Tribe is another cool act--fire dancers, gypsy dancers and drummers.  They do some scary yet awesome stuff with those fire poi!  (Side note: the two fire spinners of the tribe got engaged last weekend at the KCRF coronation feaste! :-))  The joust is fun too if you like that.  I also enjoy watching the noon parade, as it's a good way to get to see most of the street characters.  As far as food, other than crepes (try a ham and cheese crepe or the "princess" crepe--ice cream, strawberries and chocolate), KCRF has an apple dumpling that is to die for.  The turkey legs are a pretty big hit, although they're not my favorite.  They have some good Chinese food too.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Genievea Brookstone on August 12, 2009, 01:22:09 PM
Myself and my pirate attended for the first time last year and we will be attending again this year.  We had a blast, unfortunatly we live in the St Louis area so attending more than one weekend for us is a bit difficult.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Aniroaldawen on August 12, 2009, 01:34:42 PM
Oh oh oh--I can't believe I forgot Get Shrewed!! It's like a Renaissance "men are from Mars, women are from Venus" thing--a pirate (Devon from the Jolly Rogers) and a wench (his wife, I believe  ;D) battle it out with weapons and wits.  Swords, whips, frying pans, pistols, jokes, hilarious insults against the other sex, this show has it all, and it's heavily audience participatory; you'll find yourself cheering for whatever sex you're a member of and booing the other one right along with the performers. 
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on August 12, 2009, 02:18:41 PM
Quote from: Aniroaldawen on August 12, 2009, 01:34:42 PM
Oh oh oh--I can't believe I forgot Get Shrewed!! It's like a Renaissance "men are from Mars, women are from Venus" thing--a pirate (Devon from the Jolly Rogers) and a wench (his wife, I believe  ;D) battle it out with weapons and wits.  Swords, whips, frying pans, pistols, jokes, hilarious insults against the other sex, this show has it all, and it's heavily audience participatory; you'll find yourself cheering for whatever sex you're a member of and booing the other one right along with the performers. 

that is a great show. i only forgot it because it hasnt changed in 4 seasons. but i am guilty of checking it out from season to season.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Norfolk on August 12, 2009, 08:22:59 PM
KCRF:  A visitor's perspective

The Baroness and I are "playtrons" at the Colorado Renaissance Festival, having attended nearly every session of our home festival for the past decade or so.  In addition, we have travelled to the Festivals in Shakopee (MN), Apache Junction (AZ), Plantersville (TX) and Waxahachie (TX).  This coming Labor Day weekend, we are planning our sixth trip to Kansas City.  For those who might be interested, what follows is our impressions of this venue.

Pros: 

-- The cast.  The KCRF has one of the very best entertainment casts we have experienced.  They have a theme, and carry it from the opening gate show to closing canon.  They interact wonderfully well with patrons, and enroll them into the various themed skits that take place all over the Shire throughout the day.  The cast members' garb is also extremely well done, perhaps the best we have seen.

-- The site.  Of the Faires we have visited, "Canterbury" is probably our favorite.  Constructed on gentle hills located on either side of a small stream, with loads of deciduous shade, it is a truly lovely site.  Later in the season, when the leaves are turning and the woodsmoke hangs in the trees, it is almost magical.  The layout is especially attractive, with lots of winding lanes and "hidden" coves.
If you haven't been here before and see something you think you might like to buy, I suggest that you do so immediately since you probably won't be able to find it again in the "maze".

--  The shows.  Lots of stage shows, nearly all of them quite good.  Robin Hood's mill pond act and the Human Chess skit are not to be missed.

Cons: 

--  The "no weapons" policy is childish.  If peace-tied weapons were a problem, none of the other Faires would allow them.  Since nearly all do, KCRF's policy doesn't pass my reality check.

--  In past seasons, there was a stern warning on the KCRF website that patrons attending in garb were forbidden to interact with other patrons as characters.  The Baroness and I found this quite off putting.  Fortunately, management seems to have eliminated this spirit-dampening policy for this season.

All in all, we consider a weekend, especially a 3-day weekend, at Canterbury well worth the 10-hour drive from Larkspurshire.  We are looking very much forward to seeing all of you KCRF'rs four weeks hence, when we plan to arrive in your lovely shire with between eight and sixteen (you know how that goes) of our fellow Coloradans. 
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Feline Groovy on August 13, 2009, 07:42:40 AM
I don't know if I'll be able to hit KCRF this year (the commute from the East Coast is a pain) but I know I'll be nudging the niece and nephews to go say 'hi' to it for me.  It was my first faire (some twenty-plus years ago) and it was their first faire as well -- as soon as the youngest had the legs to get through the day, I timed my fall family visits to land during faire season so I could take them (and their parents) to KC.  Over the past couple of years, schedules have become harder and harder to coordinate as their lives continue to grow and get even busier so we haven't done it the past couple of years.  But if I find an opportunity to 'go west' during the run, I still try to squeeze in one faire day, just for fun.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Lady Rebecca on August 13, 2009, 05:03:10 PM
I'm planning to head up there from OK for one of the weekends. Especially if I can convince some of my friends to go with me (probably the Columbus Day weekend). But it all depends on what shows I'm doing at school.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on August 14, 2009, 10:21:42 AM
Quote from: Lady Rebecca on August 13, 2009, 05:03:10 PM
I'm planning to head up there from OK for one of the weekends. Especially if I can convince some of my friends to go with me (probably the Columbus Day weekend). But it all depends on what shows I'm doing at school.

that is my weekend, columbus day weekend. i will have to say hey if i see you roaming around the lanes!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: TKM on August 14, 2009, 01:12:23 PM
Quote from: kcdcchef on August 12, 2009, 10:12:18 AM
a teenager that lives nearby
HEY! I'll be 20 before this season starts! so there!  :P
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Lady Rebecca on August 14, 2009, 01:36:19 PM
Well it looks like Columbus Day weekend does not actually line up with our fall break (weird...), so I think we're now planning on both Sat and Sun of closing weekend. I'm looking forward to it!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on August 15, 2009, 11:00:29 AM
Quote from: Lady Rebecca on August 14, 2009, 01:36:19 PM
Well it looks like Columbus Day weekend does not actually line up with our fall break (weird...), so I think we're now planning on both Sat and Sun of closing weekend. I'm looking forward to it!


columbus day weekend is so much fun because you can do a monday when the weather is not too hot. and i generally get to do 2 days that way. if i come on the non columbus day weekend, i only get to do one day generally. but closing weekend is the best weekend for faire, NO QUESTION. i mean, the weather is really cooling off, the acts are going full throttle knowing it is their last chance to entertain the masses until the next season, no holds barred, it is AMAZING on closing weekend.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Edmund Howard on August 17, 2009, 09:27:05 AM
We're also from Colorado and have CRF as our home faire.  We're planning to go to KCRF this year, probably the second weekend.  Look forward to seeing a new faire.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Brother Gregory on August 17, 2009, 02:58:30 PM
Plan to be there for the second year in a row. I was there the first time back in 2006 when I was in town for the Nascar Races. Last year and again this year my two girls and I will be there. This will be my second year as a character in my local faire the 3rd. and 4th. of October in Sioux City, Iowa and my oldest daughter will be doing it for the first time. I have talked with several characters from Kansas City and am a member of the KCRF Fans Page on Facebook. Hope to run across Madame Red she was a person who made me feel welcome the first time I was there and didn't know much about the faire as well as another older gentlemen who was the sheriff of the privies, he was helpful in telling me what and where to go and how to get around.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Sullivans Bastard on August 17, 2009, 07:19:45 PM
Hi,

A Newbie here.  My Lady & I will be attending the KC Faire for the first time this year, and we will be going in costume!  We don't have our persona's fully developed yet, but we will be mid-late 16th century middle class merchants.  We've only been to one other ren faire, but we are already hooked. :D
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Butch on August 19, 2009, 09:38:36 AM
My family and I will be there opening weekend; shooting for Sunday the 6th.  We live on the MO side.  This will be the first year that I'll be in garb.  16th century mariner, with a blue thrum cap.  2007 was our first KC fair in a long time (we just moved back to KC in 2007).  My son was garbed as a (tall) jester the past 2 years.  He'll be a merchant in a green doublet with gold trim this year.

I really love the KCRF!  I enjoyed the Maryland RF when I was stationed in Quantico; and I didn't care for the Pennsylvania RF (call me crazy!)

We went to the Midwest RF in Omaha earlier this year (May), and it was friendly, but very small; nothing like the wonderful KCRF!

We're going to do the Living History Tour in the morning, and the Feast of Fools in the afternoon this year.  I can't wait!

Tell me about the pub sing?  Where/when does that go down?

Thank-you very much!  It's gonna be great!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on August 19, 2009, 07:51:48 PM
Quote from: Butch on August 19, 2009, 09:38:36 AM
My family and I will be there opening weekend; shooting for Sunday the 6th.  We live on the MO side.  This will be the first year that I'll be in garb.  16th century mariner, with a blue thrum cap.  2007 was our first KC fair in a long time (we just moved back to KC in 2007).  My son was garbed as a (tall) jester the past 2 years.  He'll be a merchant in a green doublet with gold trim this year.

I really love the KCRF!  I enjoyed the Maryland RF when I was stationed in Quantico; and I didn't care for the Pennsylvania RF (call me crazy!)

We went to the Midwest RF in Omaha earlier this year (May), and it was friendly, but very small; nothing like the wonderful KCRF!

We're going to do the Living History Tour in the morning, and the Feast of Fools in the afternoon this year.  I can't wait!

Tell me about the pub sing?  Where/when does that go down?

Thank-you very much!  It's gonna be great!

pub sing goes on at end of day, around 530ish, at the 3 lions stage near mermaid commons. basically, all of the acts come together, and you get to see a little of about half a dozen acts, minimum. they all do one of their songs, not necessarily one from their shows, and there is comedy and banter amongst all of the actors on the stage. at times, there are uppards of 50 or so actors on the stage, above it in the tower above it, etc. and many MANY other actors hang out in the audience. then the royalty shows up and leads everyone to the gate for closing ceremonies.

funniest part of the festival. that whole area of the shire, three lions, mermaid commons, yorkshire harbour, best part of the shire. funniest shows, funniest acts, BEST FOOD. you can see jolly rogers, mental pause, limey birds, get shrewed, all funny FUNNY stuff. i also highly reccomend human chess, generally daily at 3pm. to the right of 3 lions. very well choreographed fight scenes, amazing humor, good times.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Steev on September 01, 2009, 05:41:59 PM
Quote from: Feline Groovy on August 13, 2009, 07:42:40 AM
I don't know if I'll be able to hit KCRF this year (the commute from the East Coast is a pain)
hey Feline-  my fam and I are going to try and make it this season if you want to caravan...
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Sullivans Bastard on September 01, 2009, 06:24:42 PM
We're planning to hit the Wichita Fall Renfest Sept 26 & 27, then hit KCRF probably Oct 10/11.  There's a NAF festival in Oklahoma on Oct 3/4 I want to attend so I'll delay gratification at KCRF so I can go toot my flutes. :P
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Rani Zemirah on September 01, 2009, 06:35:06 PM
I'm also down here in OK, and I would love to attend KCRF, but I'm afraid I don't have enough information about the logistics of it.  Mainly, dates... but also, is there on-site camping for pay/playtrons, and if not, is there a convenient campground nearby?  What about ticket prices?  I'm sure there is a website, but I'd rather hear about these things from the regulars, so I can get a feel for the place.  The entertainment sounds divine, and I do know a couple of vendors that swear by the place...
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Sullivans Bastard on September 01, 2009, 07:10:13 PM
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on September 01, 2009, 06:35:06 PM
I'm also down here in OK, and I would love to attend KCRF, but I'm afraid I don't have enough information about the logistics of it.  Mainly, dates... but also, is there on-site camping for pay/playtrons, and if not, is there a convenient campground nearby?  What about ticket prices?  I'm sure there is a website, but I'd rather hear about these things from the regulars, so I can get a feel for the place.  The entertainment sounds divine, and I do know a couple of vendors that swear by the place...

here ya go: https://www.kcrenfest.com/

https://www.kcrenfest.com/lodging.html  <--There are two campgrounds listed.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on September 01, 2009, 09:33:09 PM
Quote from: Sullivans Bastard on September 01, 2009, 07:10:13 PM
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on September 01, 2009, 06:35:06 PM
I'm also down here in OK, and I would love to attend KCRF, but I'm afraid I don't have enough information about the logistics of it.  Mainly, dates... but also, is there on-site camping for pay/playtrons, and if not, is there a convenient campground nearby?  What about ticket prices?  I'm sure there is a website, but I'd rather hear about these things from the regulars, so I can get a feel for the place.  The entertainment sounds divine, and I do know a couple of vendors that swear by the place...

here ya go: https://www.kcrenfest.com/

https://www.kcrenfest.com/lodging.html  <--There are two campgrounds listed.

i am all about meeting fellow rennies from the forum, and that weekend is looking like my weekend. so if you guys are there, lets plan a meetup!!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Norfolk on September 01, 2009, 10:11:54 PM
The Baroness and I, along with 13 (plus or minus) other rennies from Larkspurshire (Colorado) plan to be at the jousting grounds at noon on Saturday.  The more the merrier!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Rani Zemirah on September 01, 2009, 10:20:27 PM
Sooo... do any of you camp together on Faire weekends, or do most of you do the hotel thing?  I can't afford to drive up, spend money on Faire and stay in a hotel...  :-\
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on September 02, 2009, 12:16:48 AM
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on September 01, 2009, 10:20:27 PM
Sooo... do any of you camp together on Faire weekends, or do most of you do the hotel thing?  I can't afford to drive up, spend money on Faire and stay in a hotel...  :-\

i just cannot believe the forum celebrity that IS rani zemirah is coming to my shire!!!?!?!???!!!!!???????

i do the hotel thing, because i can usually find hotels on something like hotels.com or orbitz, travelocity, etc, within 15 miles for around sixty bucks. now there is camping nearby, i have never used it. i love faire, but i also love matresses.

if you are coming the same weekend as me, i can easily score you a ticket to soften the blow. let me know as october draws closer and closer, and if we are doing the same weekend, i can get you the hookup. i know about 2 dozen performers, and half a dozen vendors. i always pay for my tix because i want to support the shire, but they are always throwing free tix at me, so, i can hook you up if that is a deal breaker.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Rani Zemirah on September 02, 2009, 01:57:10 AM
Uhhhh, ok... I'm guessing that was some serious sarcasm there... because I'm still just a relative noob here, having just passed my one year anniversary on the boards, and I was thinkin' I was flying fairly well under the radar!  I mean, sure, I mouth off a lot... but "celebrity"?!?  You must be mistaking me for someone else...  (now, if you had said infamy...  ::) )

Hadn't really had a chance to check out all the different themed weekends, but since I'm planning on All Hallows at TRF, I'm wondering if I'd be able to swing it at all.  Might be a good size bonus headed my way soon, though, and if so, then I could hit both Faires in the same month, and wouldn't that be just the Awesome Bomb?!?  :D  Might even be able to swing one o' those fancy mattresses you were talking about...  LOL 

I like my mattress also, but I just let the air out of it and roll it up when it's time to pack up and go home!  Makes folding up the tent a whole lot easier!  heheh

What is everyone's fav weekend?  Are there themes you just never miss, vendors that have the nicest wares, best people watching spots, etc...?  Oh, and if I manage to get there I'll have my 8 y/o daughter with me, so what are the really family oriented activities? 
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Butch on September 02, 2009, 02:23:00 PM
Baron, will you and the lovely Baroness be there on Saturday, or Sunday?
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Norfolk on September 02, 2009, 04:01:01 PM
We'll try to be there both days.  If for no other reason, to see who else shows up.  ;)
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Butch on September 02, 2009, 04:21:50 PM
Cool!  I've got a bunch of people from my office who will be there with me at first; we're going on the living history tour at 1030.  Right after the tour, and right before we split up, we're all gonna meet at a beer booth and sing "Don't Forget your old Shipmate".  Should be a lot of fun!  (we've been rehearsing)  Look for us around 1130 (join us if you like!)  It'll be one around where the history tour ends (I don't know where that will be).
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on September 02, 2009, 05:55:09 PM
what is the living history tour?
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on September 02, 2009, 05:57:28 PM
Quote from: Gauwyn of Brocknell on September 02, 2009, 05:55:09 PM
what is the living history tour?

you basically get a living tour of the shire and learn all it's ins and outs, how it corelates to that period in history, that sort of thing. it is worth it.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on September 02, 2009, 06:06:43 PM
Quote from: Baron on September 02, 2009, 04:01:01 PM
We'll try to be there both days.  If for no other reason, to see who else shows up.  ;)

It looks like it may be a bit wet  (60%)- Addilay is currently working on some capes :(
See you Friday
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on September 02, 2009, 06:07:52 PM
Quote from: kcdcchef on September 02, 2009, 05:57:28 PM
Quote from: Gauwyn of Brocknell on September 02, 2009, 05:55:09 PM
what is the living history tour?

you basically get a living tour of the shire and learn all it's ins and outs, how it corelates to that period in history, that sort of thing. it is worth it.

This is our first visit - maybe it is something we should check out. 
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on September 02, 2009, 06:48:28 PM
Quote from: Gauwyn of Brocknell on September 02, 2009, 06:07:52 PM


This is our first visit - maybe it is something we should check out. 

it can take a bit of time, and you generally wanna make reservations, even though it is free of charge and all. they will show you things all faires have, blacksmith, iron works, the livestock, armoury, etc, etc. so you end up seeing things that every faire has. but worth it because you can see the whole shire rather quickly without getting "lost". rather easy shire to navigate, just keep working your way left and you end up back at the gate eventually!!

Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Butch on September 02, 2009, 09:01:31 PM
I read about it, and thought it would be neat.  I've never done it, but it says it lasts about an hour.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Norfolk on September 02, 2009, 09:48:44 PM
The Baroness and I have done the tour two or three times.  We found it both enjoyable and quite informative, albeit somewhat different, each time.  Highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors.

Gawyn, where did you hear that this weekend held a 60% chance of rain for the Bonner Springs area.  My favorite weather source (www.wunderground.com/cgi-bin/findweather/getForecast?query=66012) currently shows 20% each day.  That's not to say one shouldn't be prepared, but ...
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on September 03, 2009, 05:38:17 AM
Weather.com - but I see they now have changed to 30% - go figure  ;D
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Feline Groovy on September 03, 2009, 08:22:29 AM
Quote from: Steev on September 01, 2009, 05:41:59 PM
Quote from: Feline Groovy on August 13, 2009, 07:42:40 AM
I don't know if I'll be able to hit KCRF this year (the commute from the East Coast is a pain)
hey Feline-  my fam and I are going to try and make it this season if you want to caravan...

I'll keep that in mind if I can ever start planning ahead again!  (Here it is, Thursday morning, and I STILL don't know if I'm going to MDRF this weekend or not. ***sigh***)
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Steev on September 03, 2009, 08:25:15 AM
Quote from: Feline Groovy on September 03, 2009, 08:22:29 AM
Quote from: Steev on September 01, 2009, 05:41:59 PM
Quote from: Feline Groovy on August 13, 2009, 07:42:40 AM
I don't know if I'll be able to hit KCRF this year (the commute from the East Coast is a pain)
hey Feline-  my fam and I are going to try and make it this season if you want to caravan...

I'll keep that in mind if I can ever start planning ahead again!  (Here it is, Thursday morning, and I STILL don't know if I'm going to MDRF this weekend or not. ***sigh***)

Oh, you should.  But if you don't make it to MDRF this weekend, I'm sure we'll see you another weekend...
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Cormac on September 03, 2009, 09:39:16 AM
I am well past ready for KCRF.  Have to wait until Sunday though as my eldest has dance competition on Saturday.  At least we get to go to the Irish Fest after she is done.

We'll be there Sunday (hopefully a bit before opening cannon) and will stay until we collopase or close.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on September 03, 2009, 11:52:48 AM
BTW - I presume like other faires that there is some opening (when would it start)  that occurs prior to the cannon?  Also, what time is a good time to arrive so as to get decent parking?  Or is there any restriction on how early - we like to arrive and have a bit of munchies before we go in.

Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on September 03, 2009, 12:14:55 PM
Quote from: Gauwyn of Brocknell on September 03, 2009, 11:52:48 AM
BTW - I presume like other faires that there is some opening (when would it start)  that occurs prior to the cannon?  Also, what time is a good time to arrive so as to get decent parking?  Or is there any restriction on how early - we like to arrive and have a bit of munchies before we go in.



parking lots open very early in the morning, and like most faires, you park in the grass leading up to the faire. i got there as early as 9am some years, never an issue. get there as early as you want. prior to the opening cannon, the gates open just literally moments before. like 15 minutes or so, not too much. it is like other faires, rather boring as the gates are just opening, most characters / playtrons / vendors just waking up, wandering around eating a crepe / scotch egg/ something trying to wake up!!

last year we got there on the closing saturday, and they had around 15-18,000 there that day, i kid you not, and we were like number 17,500, it was sooo crazy. we got there around 1pm, and our walk from car to gate was 120 seconds, tops. the parking is all outside of front gate, and you are walking right towards gate. not around the backside, something of that nature. any spot you park at, you can see the front gate, literally.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Feline Groovy on September 03, 2009, 03:15:12 PM
Quote from: Steev on September 03, 2009, 08:25:15 AM
Quote from: Feline Groovy on September 03, 2009, 08:22:29 AM
I'll keep that in mind if I can ever start planning ahead again!  (Here it is, Thursday morning, and I STILL don't know if I'm going to MDRF this weekend or not. ***sigh***)

Oh, you should.  But if you don't make it to MDRF this weekend, I'm sure we'll see you another weekend...

I want to, want to, want to!  I think it's pretty much going to depend on how wiped out I still am by tomorrow afternoon.  This being a business owner thing is work!   :P        :D
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Butch on September 04, 2009, 08:41:20 AM
Opening weekend starts tomorrow!  This weekend is 2 for 1 gate admission with donation of 5 cans of food.

Sunday will be great!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Cormac on September 04, 2009, 09:28:32 AM
I really should have took the day off.  Hard to be productive and stay focused when I would rather be working on some leather projects and leaving early for the weekend.  Garb for myself and the eldest spawn is packed and I keep watching the clock trying to will it to move faster.

Can't wait until Sunday!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: TKM on September 04, 2009, 03:12:24 PM
i will be there tomorrow. i will probably be too busy to schedule a meet-up anywhere, but if anyone wants to track me down and visit, i'll be in a brown hat, white shirt, black doublet, brown pants and black boots. you can see me walking the parade for the hat shop, also i plan to lend a hand to the barbarians, and i'll mostly likely catch at least one jolly rogers show.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Brother Gregory on September 04, 2009, 09:22:13 PM
I'll watch for you I'll be attending the faire for the 4 time second year in a row with my two teenage daughter's.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Lady Elizabeth Howard on September 06, 2009, 08:53:40 AM
Well I know that I can't wait until October 3rd. When our school will make it's annual trip up to KC. It is one of the high lights of my year. IT is all me and my friends talk about. But there is so much to do. So many costumes to finish. But I am excited because we will have, hopefully, over ten people in costume this year. Last year when we came it was just me and my cousin in costume, and my green dresses debaute. And this year it is my little sisters first festival. She is such a cute pesent.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Butch on September 06, 2009, 08:58:06 PM
What a great day!  Gauwyn and Gauwynette, Baron and the Baroness, and two others were there!  How wonderful to meet with others from distant cities and states!  The weather was beautiful.

Thank-you very much KCDCCHEF for the recommendations.  We all agreed that the living history tour was well worth the start of the day.  The human chess match was pretty cool, but the pub sing was really one of the best parts of the day!

Putting faces with the internet personalities really added to the experience.

Huzzah!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on September 07, 2009, 09:17:38 AM
It was great meeting you Butch and all of your clan.  The tour was most definetly worth the time.

We REALLY enjoyed this faire and will return again.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Cormac on September 07, 2009, 06:25:42 PM
Well I managed to miss everyone.  I thought I had the place and time, but must have messed something up.  I did spot an R/F pin on someone with a maroon bodice and blue skirt.  My daughter was on a mission otherwise I would have chased you down an had a proper introduction.

Finally saw Musical Blades other than passing by their stage for tyke friendly entertainment.  Sonic Sidhe was good and plenty of shade.  I really enjoy the Elvish singer and made a second pass before the day was out.  Only thing missing were bag pipes.  If I missed them please tell me where to look.

Barring weather I'll be back from the full crew of ankle biters on the 19th.  Hope to see some of you there.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on September 08, 2009, 05:50:05 AM
On Saturday M'Lady was there with adorned pin, but wearing a maroon skirt and blue bodice ?
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Cormac on September 08, 2009, 10:51:38 AM
Quote from: Gauwyn of Brocknell on September 08, 2009, 05:50:05 AM
On Saturday M'Lady was there with adorned pin, but wearing a maroon skirt and blue bodice ?

I apologize for remembering in reverse.  No wonder I missed meeting everyone!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Sullivans Bastard on September 12, 2009, 08:56:20 PM
Well, here I sit with my wife in a Kansas City hotel room.  We'll be at the KCRF tomorrow! (first time visit!)

Anyone from the forums going to be there tomorrow?  I'll be easy to spot - see ugly mug avatar...
The most noticable thing about me will be the big yellow wooden flute stuck in my sword baldric. :)
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Lady Elizabeth Howard on September 12, 2009, 09:45:39 PM
Unfourtunally no. I have to wait until October 3rd.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on September 13, 2009, 07:44:59 PM
yeah, and i am the following weekend darn the luck. amazing how october gets here quicker and quicker every year. damn we are all getting old!!
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Sullivans Bastard on September 13, 2009, 10:57:29 PM
We were there oday.  We want to return in October, but it looks like the last weekend (10/11) is the only one we can try to make.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: kcdcchef on September 14, 2009, 12:33:32 AM
Quote from: Sullivans Bastard on September 13, 2009, 10:57:29 PM
We were there oday.  We want to return in October, but it looks like the last weekend (10/11) is the only one we can try to make.

well i shall look for you then, as, i plan on being in the shire that weekend. i am easy to spot, the only person on these boards who wears jeans to the faire.
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Lady Rebecca on September 15, 2009, 01:19:58 AM
Is the last weekend not the one after that?
Title: Re: Gates to Open In A Few Weeks.......Where is Everyone?
Post by: Sullivans Bastard on September 15, 2009, 06:21:17 AM
Quote from: Lady Rebecca on September 15, 2009, 01:19:58 AM
Is the last weekend not the one after that?

You are correct.  Oct 17-18 is the last weekend.  I was assuming that Columbus Day, Oct 12, was the last day.  My mistake.