http://www.iowarenfest.com/iowarenfest/home.html
Memorial day weekend 2013-May25-27
Middle Amana Park, Ia
$10 adults
kids 4-12-$6 Under 4-free.
Well attended in 2012!
we will be there for sure, since we live less than half hour away!
It's a 4+ hour drive for us, but we had so much fun last year this was added to out regular circuit ;D
I think Greg told me last year in DM that he was not going to be the one running it this year. I don't know who is?
We used to go to this faire years ago, but for a very long time, every time we went, it poured rain and we ended up leaving!
Would someone be able to tell me who the vocal entertainment usually is? Depending on who that is (I meant who was there last year, I know the 2013 lineup isn't ready yet), we might try again. However, we've been going out of state over Memorial Day weekend but haven't made plans yet for this year. Thanks!
Orkes and Trolls. There are also a couple of minstrels that were probably the same as you saw in Dubuque.
A couple years back they had the Gypsy Nomads - that was a nice treat.
Orkes and Trolls for sure...There was another singing group I sat through right after them, I wish I knew their names..They were new to the faire circuit, but they were very funny.
The stage is indoors, so rain and too much sunshine can be avoided. We were lucky last year, gorgeous, fair weather in that pretty park, with a natural amphitheater so people could spread a cloak or blanket sit on the grassy hillside under the trees to watch the Joust.
One of the best sites I have ever been to for a one weekend faire.
Greg talked like he is getting ready to retire and move South.Talked about maybe someone who has some of the food courts at the DMRF buying him out.This all happened the day before the faire opened in 2012.I think he and Bonnie want to be closer to their kids.
Belatedly read your last post ;). Yeah, Greg's been looking for a buyer for awhile, especially for the faires in May (Nebraska and Iowa). Says it's too early to come back North.
Once something starts to get in the way of what you really want to do, then your heart is no longer officially in the project. I think that's been the case here for awhile.
Due to some unexpected huge vet bills for our dogs, it doesn't look like we will be going out of state, so we may try to visit this faire. The most important thing at faire to us is the music (of course besides seeing our friends and meeting new ones), so we really like to have a variety of good music. I'll keep looking at the site for updates. Maybe we will make it back after an absence of several years.
Have Court, Will Travel will be there! I am still looking for lodging in the area, but I will definitely be there!
I will not be with the court for Amana since I have to work that weekend, but I will be in Dubuque with the court the weekend before.
Lord Clisto
My wife and I are planning on attending for the first time. Its been years since we grabbed up, and we are looking forward to it. Maybe we can meet some of you names on a computer screen. :)
Will be going.
Quote from: Lady Rosalind on April 19, 2013, 10:11:26 PM
Have Court, Will Travel will be there! I am still looking for lodging in the area, but I will definitely be there!
We stayed at Dusk to Dawn B&B, within walking distance of the faire last year.
http://amanacolonies.com/pages/directory/dusk-to-dawn.php (http://amanacolonies.com/pages/directory/dusk-to-dawn.php)
The town is so quiet at night, it's a delight, and the room prices are comparable to super 8.
A HUGE, home cooked country breakfast is included each morning, promptly at 8. There is a central living room/dining room on each floor with the rooms directly off of it, and only the folks on your floor will be at the communal table.
We had the second floor to ourselves. It seemed like there was enough food to feed 5-6 people, delivered straight from the kitchen by the landlady. The colonies are known for their baked goods, which you will get a basket full with breakfast. We took some with us to faire.
Looks like Linda (Lady Leonora) and I will be at the Sudbury Motel, about 6 miles away. Looking forward to NOT CAMPING!
I'll look into that. Everyplace but the B&B was full last year.
Generally we would have room at our house, but recently two of my children have moved back temporarily, so the 'inn' is quite full We are only about 20 minutes away.
If I get my sewing done in time, I'll be there! Any tips or must-sees? I've never been before, but Lady Rowen recommended it and you're all going so I figure it's probably nice. :)
Quote from: Sunshine on May 10, 2013, 09:36:43 PM
If I get my sewing done in time, I'll be there! Any tips or must-sees? I've never been before, but Lady Rowen recommended it and you're all going so I figure it's probably nice. :)
You must see me :)
Quote from: Gauwyn of Bracknell on May 10, 2013, 10:47:36 PM
You must see me :)
Done, sir! But you might need to look for blue instead of yellow. :)
Depending on finances, I would really like to make it at least one day. It's only a little over an hour from home, just have to make sure I have money for gas and admission and food and souvenirs.
We're making plans now. It's about 4 hours from here (Omaha), and since the grandkids are at the 1/2 way point, it's worth the trip for us.
Sunshine-Blue instead of yellow?..check. Will you be bringing your bow? Look us up for a favor ;D , I look forward to seeing you again! Hopefully Dustin can make it too!
You can do sightseeing in Amana Colonies- the museums and shops we went to were free.
The restaurants are nice, and you can buy 8 oz bottles of that tasty, sweet rhubarb wine if you are so inclined (and of age ;)).
The Colony where the faire is at is not one of the mainstream 'touristy' colonies, but there was a grill/pub just down the street from the park. I don't know if it's still open.
Quote from: Lady Renee Buchanan on February 18, 2013, 06:51:05 PM
The most important thing at faire to us is the music (of course besides seeing our friends and meeting new ones), so we really like to have a variety of good music.
Hardtack Jack will be performing there.
https://www.facebook.com/HardtackJack (https://www.facebook.com/HardtackJack)
Thanks! I'm looking forward to going back to this faire again. It's been many years, and the music sounds great!
Quote from: Rowen MacD on May 13, 2013, 09:20:58 AMSunshine-Blue instead of yellow?..check. Will you be bringing your bow? Look us up for a favor ;D , I look forward to seeing you again!
I confess, that bow's not actually mine in my icon. I just liked the shot (no pun intended). I've got pictures of me doing just about everything at the faire except riding a pony now, I think, including getting swarmed by baby pigs. O_o Looking forward to seeing you too! :D
I've never been to the Amana Colonies before. I thought maybe they were Amish, but looking it up I see it's a different kind of commune? Do they mind people dressed in garb if it's for the faire, or is it more appropriate to change before taking in some of the sights?
We went to the faire several years ago, and it poured. After staying in the pavilion for over an hour with no signs of let up, we decided to go into the Colonies - garbed - and eat at one of the homestyle restaurants. Still in garb, because we didn't bring anything to change into.
The serving staff were nice, didn't say a thing, but the stares from the other diners were hysterical to us. And here I am in my wench outfit - with all that entails, girls and all, and I went into the restroom, and a woman asked me, "Are you Amish?"
I'm sure that with the faire going on, the locals are used to seeing garbed people walking around, so I wouldn't worry about changing, unless you feel more comfortable doing so.
We are booked at the Sudbury Motel.
She said she was getting short on rooms-so if you need to reserve one, you might want to do it now.
http://www.cbs2iowa.com/news/features/morning/stories/iowa-renaissance-festival-292.shtml (http://www.cbs2iowa.com/news/features/morning/stories/iowa-renaissance-festival-292.shtml)
Video spot for the faire on the News-The site looks nice (what you can see of it). Includes some footage of last years' faire....
The couple featured will be running it starting next year...Greg is getting closer to complete retirement.
"Everything is so green"-
History of the World, Part I-Mel Brooks as King Louis.
Quote from: Rowen MacD on May 22, 2013, 03:14:40 PM
http://www.cbs2iowa.com/news/features/morning/stories/iowa-renaissance-festival-292.shtml (http://www.cbs2iowa.com/news/features/morning/stories/iowa-renaissance-festival-292.shtml)
Video spot for the faire on the News-The site looks nice (what you can see of it). Includes some footage of last years' faire....
The couple featured will be running it starting next year...Greg is getting closer to complete retirement.
"Everything is so green"-
History of the World, Part I-Mel Brooks as King Louis.
The actual footage of the interview with the new people was from the TV station's property, so there are no houses or passing traffic on the faire site ;). Looks like there are more vendors this year too, should be a great time.
Looking forward to seeing everybody on Saturday...Chance of rain, but the site is grassy, no mud, and plenty of places to get under a roof if it squalls.
I have a fyne bottle of Peach Melomel courtesy of Moonstruck Meadery, and I plan to get some Rhubarb wine in the Colonies.
Temps will be in the comfortable 60's for those of us wearing heavy garb. Memorial day will be 72.
Quote from: Rowen MacD on May 23, 2013, 06:04:03 PM
Looking forward to seeing everybody on Saturday...Chance of rain, but the site is grassy, no mud, and plenty of places to get under a roof if it squalls.
I have a fyne bottle of Peach Melomel courtesy of Moonstruck Meadery, and I plan to get some Rhubarb wine in the Colonies.
Temps will be in the comfortable 60's for those of us wearing heavy garb. Memorial day will be 72.
Have you ever tried their capsumel? Looks interesting.
So close, yet so far away! I'm going to be in Ankeny visiting family this weekend. If I can pull a rabbit out of my hat, maybe I can convince them into a road trip. :)
Quote from: DeadBishop on May 23, 2013, 10:38:28 PM
So close, yet so far away! I'm going to be in Ankeny visiting family this weekend. If I can pull a rabbit out of my hat, maybe I can convince them into a road trip. :)
keep me informed DB - would be good to see you. Do you know Goody? - she is also coming
Every time we have gone to this faire, it has poured rain. The day before could have been beautiful, but when we'd go, it would rain. Heavily.
I am hoping to go tomorrow to meet up with some friends, and it looks like -- rain.
We'll see tomorrow morning how I feel about slogging 2 hours each way in a thunderstorm.
Quote from: Lady Renee Buchanan on May 24, 2013, 05:47:04 AM
Every time we have gone to this faire, it has poured rain. The day before could have been beautiful, but when we'd go, it would rain. Heavily.
I am hoping to go tomorrow to meet up with some friends, and it looks like -- rain.
We'll see tomorrow morning how I feel about slogging 2 hours each way in a thunderstorm.
nooo - stay away ;D just kidding of course - look for us if you are there - we are prepared for rain.
60% chance of rain tomorrow the weather is now saying. Is it me? My husband thinks so. Since he's not going tomorrow and I am and it's supposed to rain, he says I'm the jinx, not him!
When I looked this morning, it was 100% chance of rain, with a band of yellow, orange, and red thunderstorms shortly outside of the Middle Amana Colonies. So I decided to stay home.
Did it end up thunderstorming and raining all day? I wished I had gone, but I would have had to drive through heavy thunderstorms (according to the weather map) to get there. I hope all had fun anyways.
It was coming down pretty good when we left.
Apparently this does not faze the locals though. You have to admire the die hard mundanes (and a few faire virgins) who showed up today. We had quite a few patrons, most of which just threw on a poncho or brought an umbrella and shopped their little hearts out. The food vendors were stocking coffee and hot cocoa. We hung in there until my skirts got wet then started dragging, so it was time to go.
Tomorrow is supposed to be a bit better, as is Memorial day.
We had such gorgeous weather last year!
Live about a hour directly north and when I looked out the window and saw nothing but water. Checked the weather for the Amanas and saw a purple blob and decided that I'll try tomorrow.
Quote from: Sir Ironhead on May 25, 2013, 07:02:59 PM
Live about a hour directly north and when I looked out the window and saw nothing but water. Checked the weather for the Amanas and saw a purple blob and decided that I'll try tomorrow.
Look for and say hello. We will be there all 3 days ( well now down to 2 )
Lady Renee, we missed you guys in Dubuque. The weather was fantastic and in the 80's both days. Did you go to Janesville last weekend instead?
Lord Clisto
Hi Clisto!
Yes, I was at Janesville both days. I so wish Dbq wouldn't hold the faire the same weekend as Janesville, which has just celebrated its 8th year.
In the future, couldn't Dbq change to the first weekend in May? The second is Mother's Day, and I understand that's probably not the best weekend for a faire, but the third weekend has always been Janesville.
On Saturday, I met friends from Bristol, and on Sunday, Steve and I went by ourselves.
Hated to miss Dbq, but that's how it worked out.
DBQ has always been on the weekend before Memorial Day. The problem is there used to be 5 weekends in May before last year and everything worked out. Now with only 4, they both end up on the same weekend again. It will always stay on that weekend and conflict until probably next year 2014 when once again there will be 5 weekends in May I am thinking. The next after that would be 2020. I don't even want to think that far ahead. I will be in my mid 60's. LOL...
Clisto
Clisto, I believe the first year at Storybook Park, it was in June. And it didn't conflict the second year, either. It's just been since it's been held at Albrecht Acres. I was told that the camp opens Memorial Weekend, so the dates were changed to before then, hence the conflict with Janesville.
I was there playing guitar as part of "Hardtack Jack." We all had a great time in spite of the weather. While the OWRF at Twig (no longer active) will always have a special place in my festie heart, the Iowa festival captures some of the same magic and is a fine place to be early in the year when the festival in Shakopee is still far in the future.
It was going seeing you folks, good show, even though the crowd was small.
Quote from: Prof. John Bull on May 29, 2013, 04:26:12 PM
I was there playing guitar as part of "Hardtack Jack." We all had a great time in spite of the weather. While the OWRF at Twig (no longer active) will always have a special place in my festie heart, the Iowa festival captures some of the same magic and is a fine place to be early in the year when the festival in Shakopee is still far in the future.
Loved the music! Thank you for being there! ;D
We were there on Sunday, and got to hear Hardtack Jack. Well done! I also saw Gauwyn there but since we didn't get to go in garb, didn't introduce ourselves...
My group was vending there for all three days. I believe my cat in her birdcage got most of the attention.
We spent most of the day Saturday inside vendor tents. We tried to walk around a bit, but the rain would pick up again.
We saw Gauwyn and his Lady, met up with Sunshine again (gorgeous favors) had some custom leather work done at The Den of Antiquities, and talked hats and construction techniques with Felicity of Fyne Hats. Hubby looked over a few swords, and we watched Punch and Judy and William and Blackjack story telling.
It was wet fun.
We headed back to Ankeny to see the Grandkids and visit graves for the rest of the weekend.
We will be back next year, hopefully the weather will cooperate.
Quote from: Gauwyn of Bracknell on May 29, 2013, 09:01:13 PM
It was going seeing you folks, good show, even though the crowd was small.
Quote from: Lady Rosalind on May 29, 2013, 11:01:36 PM
Loved the music! Thank you for being there! ;D
Quote from: Godric on May 30, 2013, 07:40:24 AM
We were there on Sunday, and got to hear Hardtack Jack. Well done! I also saw Gauwyn there but since we didn't get to go in garb, didn't introduce ourselves...
I was also there, fluting with Hardtack Jack. Thank you so much for your support! It was nice to see a few familiar faces and I'm glad you enjoyed the music. :)
I'll throw in some more compliments for Hardtack Jack. :) You guys delight at both conversation and song. I'll have to get better pictures and video when it's sunny. Did Chris pass along the few I sent him? And hey, are you sure "The Night I Punched Russel Crowe" doesn't count as period...? :P
It was good to see Lord Gauwyn & Lady Addilay again, and Rowen, I'm glad you liked the feathers. :) I wasn't sure how well they'd come out, so I'm glad they were well received. Your own served admirably as a shawl clasp for the faire. Speaking of shawls, I'm glad I had them since it was so cold (jeans under the skirt, too, once I wised up), but I do dislike it when the most prominent part of my garb is something I didn't make myself! Gonna have to make a cloak next, but it'll be hard to get motivated now that it's summer and I've got ideas for another theme for my blue dress... #firstworldproblems
Does anyone have the dates for 2014? Faire is under new management as of this year, so Festivals International has nothing on it.
Hope we get drier weather this year!
Via E-mail- 2014 dates are here!
http://www.iowarenfest.com/iowarenfest/home.html (http://www.iowarenfest.com/iowarenfest/home.html)
Memorial day weekend 2014-24-25-26 May
Middle Amana Park, Ia
$10 adults
kids 4-12-$6
Under 4-free.
Yay! It looks like Michael and I will be going this year!
Quote from: Butch on March 25, 2014, 07:30:00 PM
Yay! It looks like Michael and I will be going this year!
Yep!!!
Sweet!
This having been one of the dryer winters, hoping for a dry spring too (sorry farmers). 2012 was gorgeous. This such a pretty little faire.
Do we have a vendor list yet?
Dryer would be good - it rained hard and constant for the first two days last year, but did let up on the third day. Too bad too, since it was the most vendors I had seen, but low turnout due to the weather.
Not sure how dry the winter was here - there was snow on the ground until recent, but it was quite cold so hardly any thawing of what snow we had.
Wonder how the new guy will fare with the faire?
Butch, I have warned the neighbors you are coming and staying ;D
Quote from: Gauwyn of Bracknell on March 26, 2014, 01:09:23 PM
Dryer would be good - it rained hard and constant for the first two days last year, but did let up on the third day. Too bad too, since it was the most vendors I had seen, but low turnout due to the weather.
Not sure how dry the winter was here - there was snow on the ground until recent, but it was quite cold so hardly any thawing of what snow we had.
Wonder how the new guy will fare with the faire?
Butch, I have warned the neighbors you are coming and staying ;D
There is no new guy... the sale fell through, last I heard.
Have Court, Will Travel will be back performing (are we gluttons for punishment, or what?). Last year, we spent plenty of time under the shelter, watching the flooding, watching the people trying to get their vintage Airstream trailer out, NOT watching jousting, because it was too dangerous, and giggling over Punch and Judy a couple of times a day (which was hilarious).
The thing about this faire: at least ONE day will be rainy. If you get really unlucky, like we did last year, all three days will have rain, the bathroom floors will be wet and muddy, and you will either be BOILING hot, or FREEZING cold. There is no in-between! However, with a little good attitude, and good humor, you can still have fun!
Quote from: Lady Rosalind on March 27, 2014, 01:37:07 PM
The thing about this faire: at least ONE day will be rainy. If you get really unlucky, like we did last year, all three days will have rain, the bathroom floors will be wet and muddy, and you will either be BOILING hot, or FREEZING cold. There is no in-between! However, with a little good attitude, and good humor, you can still have fun!
If Gauwyn's there, fun will be had!
I'm looking forward to seeing the Earldom of Bracknell! How does Gauwyn put it? It's so small it only has one side?
When we have fun we have FUN!
Bowling the lanes was a riot, in 2012, with our version of flamingo croquet from Alice in Wonderland (we really should get some lawn flamingos and wiffle balls to use).
Punch and Judy, and William and Blackjack.
Knightings and punishments.....
I still had fun last year. My poor cat wasn't happy with the thunder...
Quote from: Rowen MacD on March 27, 2014, 02:26:28 PM
When we have fun we have FUN!
Bowling the lanes was a riot, in 2012, with our version of flamingo croquet from Alice in Wonderland (we really should get some lawn flamingos and wiffle balls to use).
Punch and Judy, and William and Blackjack.
Knightings and punishments.....
See, in 2012, I was so miserably hot that I blocked the whole thing out of memory. Except that I will never camp at that one again! :)
I remember 2012 as warm, but dry. It would have been miserable camping though.
We stayed in Dusk to Dawn B&B that year; it was $70-$80 per night, but a HUGE country breakfast is included.
It was much quieter than a hotel and only 2 blocks from the park where the fair is held.
Each floor has 3 bedrooms, it's own small living room and a kitchen, and each room has a private bath and TV. Highly recommended.
Yes, it was hot. I think I like the rain more than the heat (easier to stay dry than cool).
We live about 20 minutes away, so I prefer my "bed and breakfast" ;) ;) :P
Hope the entertainment is up soon and will be curious about the vendors (seemed like a lot a great ones last year, too bad the weather was crappy (we spent quite a bit more trying our best to help them out)
Quote from: Gauwyn of Bracknell on April 16, 2014, 11:41:40 AM
We live about 20 minutes away, so I prefer my "bed and breakfast" ;) ;) :P
Hope the entertainment is up soon and will be curious about the vendors (seemed like a lot a great ones last year, too bad the weather was crappy (we spent quite a bit more trying our best to help them out)
With us, it's all about getting out of town for the weekend. ;D. I haven't heard anything bout the vendors for this OR the Nebraska Faire, but I figure if they have the weekend free, they'll be there.
We gave up on this faire about 5 years ago, because whatever day we went, it poured and poured. We'd drive 3 hours to get there, spend a couple of hours under the pavilion, freezing and wet, then give up and go home. Sounds like not much has changed! lol We are thinking about coming out on the Monday of the Memorial weekend. It would be great to have a nice day! ;D
P.S. One time we went to one of the Amana restaurants for dinner before we drove back home. That day, I was a wench, and dressed typically (read between the lines here). I used the restroom in the restaurant, and while I was waiting in line, a woman asked me, "Are you Amish?"
Remember there is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing :)
If the weather cooperates this year, the park should be gorgeous.
We have had enough rain to green everything up, and the colony is a quiet and lovely place.
Getting excited!! My son who is 14 and 2 of his friends 14 and 13 will be there Saturday debuting their group Waxing Gibbous, playing some ren inspired tunes (guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, violin and some form of percussion) (my son has always loved Wine And Alchemy - if you have seen them).
Hope the weather is good - they are excited too!!
Quote from: Gauwyn of Bracknell on May 07, 2014, 11:37:36 AM
My son who is 14 and 2 of his friends 14 and 13 will be there Saturday debuting their group Waxing Gibbous, playing some ren inspired tunes
Alright! I can hardly wait! The weather (Accu-Weather) is forcasting no rain. Let's hope that holds out!
Long range forecast is guardedly optimistic; since Amana weather is weird.
5/23-24 supposed to be low 70's with a 30% chance of showers...same as the forecast was back in 2012 when we had such gorgeous weather....I've been told we are on the cast list again this year, so the plan is to be there early on Saturday.
Lord Bracknell-I saw the you tube video of your son playing last year. Very good .
This is his first ren gig?
Quote from: Rowen MacD on May 14, 2014, 05:52:44 PM
This is his first ren gig?
Yes it is. They are only playing on Saturday - my son got a big grin when he saw their name on the character list.
Quote from: Gauwyn of Bracknell on May 15, 2014, 05:45:15 AM
Quote from: Rowen MacD on May 14, 2014, 05:52:44 PM
This is his first ren gig?
Yes it is. They are only playing on Saturday - my son got a big grin when he saw their name on the character list.
I gave them a plug on the FB page.
Just checked the extended forecast (again) says 75 and sunny for Saturday the 24th. Lets' hope that holds!
Rain? Meh. I'll be ready!
Gauwyn, any takers for either pair of those shoes?
Quote from: Butch on May 15, 2014, 12:20:20 PM
Rain? Meh. I'll be ready!
Gauwyn, any takers for either pair of those shoes?
No, my son got another pair of the sandals he likes from Renaissance sandals - fits his garb choice more. Hope Saturday is good weather for the boys (instruments in the rain is no good!)
Bring the rain cloaks !!
Shhhh....Forecast still looking good, only slight chance of you-know-what. Temps will be warm though. dress lightly.
THIS WEEKEND!!
Quote from: Butch on May 21, 2014, 10:47:54 AM
THIS WEEKEND!!
Getting hyped, Butch? LOL ^_^.
Looks like the weather will be a repeat of 2012. Gorgeous! We are starting out to Amana around noon on Friday.
Anybody been out to the park to look around?
According to the Email I had from Greg, the faire is expanding outwards a bit. The general layout will be moved around some, and I think the Gypsy campgrounds will be moving away from the parking lot and buildings.
David and I are thrilled to see Clann Tartan will be part of the historical re enactment! We saw them in MN at the Minnesota Celtic games in Farmington a couple years back. We were very impressed with how meticulously HA the whole setup was then; I was particularly interested in the demo by a woman who was dying wool in a cauldron over a pit fire.
Quote from: Butch on May 21, 2014, 10:47:54 AM
THIS WEEKEND!!
You're just excited 'cause you get to spend the weekend with Lady Addilay ;)
(I will text you our address - hopefully you have a GPS)
Gauwyn: Ah yes, I do enjoy being in her company! (and yours as well!)
My son has a GPS that we'll bring along. We'll be leaving KC early afternoon this Friday.
Do we have enough Moonstruck Mead?
Quote from: Rowen MacD on May 21, 2014, 04:54:28 PM
Do we have enough Moonstruck Mead?
Ooooo! I was just thinking some of that would be outstanding! If it's not too inconvenient, IIII for one would certainly love to imbibe in a bit!
Let the Revel begin!
Opening gate is 11am tomorrow morning!
Forecast is wonderful! Saturday 75 and sunny, Sunday 79 and sunny..Memorial Day 79 and the only chance of a shower. It will be cool overnight, if you are camping.
More shows, more food vendors and a larger area this year.
Bring a blanket or cloak to sit on for the Joust, which is held in a lovely, natural amphitheater surrounded by grassy slopes with just a few small trees.
Did I mention that we have a visiting mermaid?
Everyone ready for this one???? ;D
Heading to the site today to help unpack our trailer and set up necessities for the Royal Court! Now I just have to decide if I want to wear my black gown or the new red gown...
Enjoy the weekend!
I'll be leaving in a couple of hours. CAN'T WAIT!
Since I got sick earlier in the week, we cancelled plans with friends. I feel better now, so we decided to come to faire today! See you there!
Had a great time! Spent the weekend with Lord Gauwyn and Lady Addilay (AND Brandy AND Henri AND Larry AND Tony) as well as the newest star of Waxing Gibbous: Alec! A very nice faire. Lots of vendors, some with some quality handmade stuff, and some reselling. Quite a lot of food and drink for sale, much more than I had expected. The joust was pretty good (I'm not into them too much). Also had a Highland Games demo and some staged duels with period weapons. Not many stage acts though; just Clearly Guilty (from KC) on Saturday, and Silverthorn (a brand new 3 person group from Amana) on Sunday. There was a wandering minstrel group, Waxing Gibbous, on both Saturday and Sunday. They were very good with their instruments and had a great sound (AND Gauwyn & Addilay's son is a member!).
They had a mermaid and a blacksmith. They also had a knife throw, an axe throw, and an archery range.
The weather was fantastic! I heard stories about how badly the place has been rained out in years past!
We did the morning tailgate both days, very nice indeed!
Saw Lady Renee, and saw Rowen MacD. Not sure if the "royalty" I spoke with included Lady Rosalind? The two ladies of court both said they were on the R/F forums, but didn't have their passwords?
Anyway, my son and I had a grand time! Thank-you, Greg and Angie, for showing us such a jewel!
Quote from: Lady Renee Buchanan on April 28, 2014, 07:15:41 PM
We gave up on this faire about 5 years ago, because whatever day we went, it poured and poured. We'd drive 3 hours to get there, spend a couple of hours under the pavilion, freezing and wet, then give up and go home. Sounds like not much has changed! lol We are thinking about coming out on the Monday of the Memorial weekend. It would be great to have a nice day! ;D
P.S. One time we went to one of the Amana restaurants for dinner before we drove back home. That day, I was a wench, and dressed typically (read between the lines here). I used the restroom in the restaurant, and while I was waiting in line, a woman asked me, "Are you Amish?"
We also really enjoyed this faire. We hadn't gone in several years were very happy to see it growing. Agreed, not much musical entertainment, but what they offered was very good.
We live just under 2 hours east of Amana. Left Galena around 10 a.m. Sunshine and blue, blue clouds. Only a 20% chance of rain in Amana. I fell asleep, as I usually do on long car trips. About 10 minutes before we got there, Steve woke me up saying, "Ren, look." As I opened my eyes to see the rain falling on the windshield and the wipers on. We had a good laugh at that.
Luckily it wasn't a downpour, and after an hour or so of being cold, the sun came out and dried everything up, and the day was glorious. Also enjoyed seeing Lord Gauwyn and Lady Addilay, Butch and Michael, Lady Rosalind, and Felicity, she of the Fyne Hats. We had such a fun time and hope to go again in future years.
Quote from: Butch on May 26, 2014, 03:58:41 PM
Had a great time! Spent the weekend with Lord Gauwyn and Lady Addilay (AND Brandy AND Henri AND Larry AND Tony) as well as the newest star of Waxing Gibbous: Alec! A very nice faire. Lots of vendors, some with some quality handmade stuff, and some reselling. Quite a lot of food and drink for sale, much more than I had expected. The joust was pretty good (I'm not into them too much). Also had a Highland Games demo and some staged duels with period weapons. Not many stage acts though; just Clearly Guilty (from KC) on Saturday, and Silverthorn (a brand new 3 person group from Amana) on Sunday. There was a wandering minstrel group, Waxing Gibbous, on both Saturday and Sunday. They were very good with their instruments and had a great sound (AND Gauwyn & Addilay's son is a member!).
They had a mermaid and a blacksmith. They also had a knife throw, an axe throw, and an archery range.
The weather was fantastic! I heard stories about how badly the place has been rained out in years past!
We did the morning tailgate both days, very nice indeed!
Saw Lady Renee, and saw Rowen MacD. Not sure if the "royalty" I spoke with included Lady Rosalind? The two ladies of court both said they were on the R/F forums, but didn't have their passwords?
Anyway, my son and I had a grand time! Thank-you, Greg and Angie, for showing us such a jewel!
We enjoyed your company, as always. You are welcome anytime. Your sewing and design skills amaze me - gives me something to shoot for! Will see you in Minnesota.
Quote from: Butch on May 26, 2014, 03:58:41 PM
Had a great time! Spent the weekend with Lord Gauwyn and Lady Addilay (AND Brandy AND Henri AND Larry AND Tony) as well as the newest star of Waxing Gibbous: Alec! A very nice faire. Lots of vendors, some with some quality handmade stuff, and some reselling. Quite a lot of food and drink for sale, much more than I had expected. The joust was pretty good (I'm not into them too much). Also had a Highland Games demo and some staged duels with period weapons. Not many stage acts though; just Clearly Guilty (from KC) on Saturday, and Silverthorn (a brand new 3 person group from Amana) on Sunday. There was a wandering minstrel group, Waxing Gibbous, on both Saturday and Sunday. They were very good with their instruments and had a great sound (AND Gauwyn & Addilay's son is a member!).
They had a mermaid and a blacksmith. They also had a knife throw, an axe throw, and an archery range.
The weather was fantastic! I heard stories about how badly the place has been rained out in years past!
We did the morning tailgate both days, very nice indeed!
Saw Lady Renee, and saw Rowen MacD. Not sure if the "royalty" I spoke with included Lady Rosalind? The two ladies of court both said they were on the R/F forums, but didn't have their passwords?
Anyway, my son and I had a grand time! Thank-you, Greg and Angie, for showing us such a jewel!
Yes, that was me in the black or red!
Quote from: Lady Rosalind on May 27, 2014, 09:37:45 AM
Yes, that was me in the black or red!
Well, shoot! I wanted to talk seamstress/tailor stuff with you! Oh well, next time!
I believe we spoke on Saturday, and I was in the fuzzy blue "thrum" cap. My son was with me in a GAoP getup.
Quote from: Butch on May 27, 2014, 10:29:27 AM
Quote from: Lady Rosalind on May 27, 2014, 09:37:45 AM
Yes, that was me in the black or red!
Well, shoot! I wanted to talk seamstress/tailor stuff with you! Oh well, next time!
I was remiss in my duties, I should have presented you to court!! >:(
(what is GAoP by the way)
Lord Sebastian did, so no worries! I know you were busy with Waxing Gibbous and other local responsibilities. Hey, I was simply a sailor on shore leave!
GAoP = Golden Age of Piracy. Pirate garb, usually identified by a tricorne and an eyepatch (and sometimes an "ARRRRR!"). Michael's garb on Saturday was GAoP, except for his trousers; but they worked! Even though it was 200 years after the Renaissance, it's what he wanted, so I'm good with it!
I thought he looked great!!
Thank you, my lord!
Quote from: Gauwyn of Bracknell on May 27, 2014, 11:24:08 AM
Quote from: Butch on May 27, 2014, 10:29:27 AM
Quote from: Lady Rosalind on May 27, 2014, 09:37:45 AM
Yes, that was me in the black or red!
Well, shoot! I wanted to talk seamstress/tailor stuff with you! Oh well, next time!
I was remiss in my duties, I should have presented you to court!! >:(
(what is GAoP by the way)
I, too, was remiss.. I talked to you for quite a while but somehow, I assumed you had already been introduced to the Court!
I
cannot believe I missed Lady Renee! Gah.
I was only there on Saturday, due to family obligations, but I
was there all day.
Lady Renee,were you were there on Saturday?
Rowen, we can only make Sundays at faire, because our restaurant is open Saturday nights.
I didn't realize you would only be there Saturday, as I was looking forward to meeting you, too!
Lady Renee, It's looking more and more like we will have to make a point of attending the MNRF. You are a regular, no?
I am making a list of 'return the favors' for folks who make it up (or down) to our little festivals. After meeting Butch and his delightful (and well dressed) son-I'm thinking a return visit to KCRF. Hubby and I had our first official date (and kiss) there.
Rowen, Bristol is our home faire, but we manage to get to MN every 3 or 4 years. Right now, not finalized, but there is a chance we may visit MN the Sunday and Monday of Labor Day weekend. Maybe we can meet then!
As I mentioned in an earlier post, we enjoyed the Iowa RF after an absence of many years.
Butch and his son and I and m'lady (along with some more of my family, along with the pirates from Des Moines are going opening weekend to MNRF.
We also usually make a progress one more time in the fall.
We also make a progress to KCRF Columbus Day weekend.
Hmmm... Perhaps things may settle enough for Nimue and I to journey to KCRF for Columbo's Day.
Quote from: Lady Renee Buchanan on May 27, 2014, 08:59:06 PM
Rowen, Bristol is our home faire, but we manage to get to MN every 3 or 4 years. Right now, not finalized, but there is a chance we may visit MN the Sunday and Monday of Labor Day weekend. Maybe we can meet then!.
Labor day is also the opening weekend of the DMRF, and we always attend since its the royals and romance weekend. Perhaps later in the season?
MNRF runs a few weeks longer than DMRF.
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on May 28, 2014, 07:53:56 AM
Hmmm... Perhaps things may settle enough for Nimue and I to journey to KCRF for Columbo's Day.
That would be great !! (I still owe you a couple ales!)
Quote from: Gauwyn of Bracknell on May 28, 2014, 11:18:41 AM
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on May 28, 2014, 07:53:56 AM
Hmmm... Perhaps things may settle enough for Nimue and I to journey to KCRF for Columbo's Day.
That would be great !! (I still owe you a couple ales!)
Oooo! Come on out! I can maybe put a little somethin' together. We'll have a new beginning of Gauwyn's Non-tourage!
It would be nice to rehabilitate a year's worth of squirrelled faire trips. Beginning
May 2013: OKRF trip cancelled because we got hit by tornado
Oct 2013: KCRF trip - first day, Nimue broke her foot
Feb 2014: Sherwood Forest trip - first day was good, but unexpectedly had to leave for home early Sunday morning because of approaching snowstorm (which never materialized)
April 2014: Scarborough - I spent one hour inside the gates, sick as a dog, and ended up in hospital later in the day, and had emergency surgery on Sunday.
So far, have rehabbed OKRF with a great visit opening weekend.