Greetings everyone!
My name is Ryan and I'd like to introduce myself. I'd also like to say, this will be our first Renaissance Festival and my wife and I plan on dressing up. We are going to be in town for a few days and want to know if there are any cool pubs to hit around the area (not too far away) or at the fairgrounds themselves.
Just a few quick questions:
1. Is a Merlin costume acceptable? I have read that we should avoid certain fantasy style costumes. What about a medieval executioner?
2. Is there enough activities for a full Saturday? Should we attend on Friday night as well? The dates are Sept 19th weekend.
3. We are staying at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott, how is the area and quality of the hotel? Are there places to eat around it?
4. I'd like to hear what some of your local favorite places to eat as well.
Sorry for all the questions, but we are newbies at this, but hope to meet some friendly people and enjoy some brews!
Oh you are going to be in soooo much trouble!
Kidding!
Welcome, you are certainly going about your first visit in the best possible way! We look forward to meeting you all!
Oh, suppose I should try to answer some of your questions...
Costumes run the spectrum from Fantasy to historical. I think you will find greater accceptance from the staff, festies, and mundanes if you start with something more on the historic side. Not too many executioners in the village. Just my opinion, you of course are welcome to do as you please.
More than enough activities for a full Saturday, plenty for a weekend! Hit the shows, as many as possible. Then hit the shops. Try the crepes!
That's all I got for now!
Quote from: ryanallen on August 05, 2009, 07:00:47 PM
1. Is a Merlin costume acceptable? I have read that we should avoid certain fantasy style costumes. What about a medieval executioner?
2. Is there enough activities for a full Saturday? Should we attend on Friday night as well? The dates are Sept 19th weekend.
3. We are staying at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott, how is the area and quality of the hotel? Are there places to eat around it?
4. I'd like to hear what some of your local favorite places to eat as well.
1. There's a lot of fantasy at MNRF, fairies, wizards, gypsies, pirates. I wouldn't worry about being historically accurate. If anything I think it might have more to do with the quality of the costume; a costume from a Halloween store (think polyester shimmery cheapness) stands out like a sore thumb, something home made or of higher quality passes more easily. Wear what you feel most comfortable in. If this is your first faire you may just want to go in street clothes. I think there's quite a bit more staff interaction with the people who show up in regular clothes, and less so if you're dressed up. It's worth it to me to go in regular wear to get that perspective on festival.
2. There's more than enough activity for a full Saturday. Shopping alone can take more than a full day if you enjoy browsing the varied artistic wares. Also, there are so many fantastic shows to see. Faire is only on for one Friday of the run, and it's not the weekend that you'll be attending.
3. Are you staying in Minneapolis or Eden Prairie? I don't know that hotel in particular, and we can make better recommendations if we know which town you'll be at. There are many pubs inside the faire as well.
4. See 3 :D
Quote from: ryanallen on August 05, 2009, 07:00:47 PM
1. Is a Merlin costume acceptable? I have read that we should avoid certain fantasy style costumes. What about a medieval executioner?
2. Is there enough activities for a full Saturday? Should we attend on Friday night as well? The dates are Sept 19th weekend.
3. We are staying at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott, how is the area and quality of the hotel? Are there places to eat around it?
4. I'd like to hear what some of your local favorite places to eat as well.
The festival is not open on the Friday of that weekend, just Saturday and Sunday. But nightlife in Minneapolis is pretty decent, so you could catch some live music downtown or in one of the suburbs, or hit any number of bars/restaurants... If you like baseball, the Twins will be in town playing Detroit.
Which TownePlace are you staying at? I know off hand that there is one downtown minneapolis, one in st. louis park, and one in Eagan..
As for attire, stay away from halloween costume looking stuff. Other than that you'd be fine in pretty much whatever. I would agree that you may feel more comfortable wearing something more period looking than fantasy looking, and I think Leyla makes a good point to attending in street clothes. There are so many people that work there either on cast or in a privately owned shop/game area it can be difficult to know whether someone is just dressed up, or actually works there, so going in street clothes might be good for your first time, as everyone will know for certain you're a patron and like Leyla said, there will likely be more interaction.
If you can go both Saturday and Sunday, maybe come in plain clothes on Saturday, then wear garb on Sunday... that would give you the best of both worlds.
At any rate, it's a wonderful, magical place... and you're certain to have a good time. :)
Quote from: ryanallen on August 05, 2009, 07:00:47 PM
Greetings everyone!
My name is Ryan and I'd like to introduce myself. I'd also like to say, this will be our first Renaissance Festival and my wife and I plan on dressing up. We are going to be in town for a few days and want to know if there are any cool pubs to hit around the area (not too far away) or at the fairgrounds themselves.
Just a few quick questions:
1. Is a Merlin costume acceptable? I have read that we should avoid certain fantasy style costumes. What about a medieval executioner?
2. Is there enough activities for a full Saturday? Should we attend on Friday night as well? The dates are Sept 19th weekend.
3. We are staying at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott, how is the area and quality of the hotel? Are there places to eat around it?
4. I'd like to hear what some of your local favorite places to eat as well.
Sorry for all the questions, but we are newbies at this, but hope to meet some friendly people and enjoy some brews!
Hey Ryan...
I will pretty much echo what everyone has said. MNRF seems to be as much a fantasy thing as much as a renaissance thing, so a Merlin costume will be just fine.
Knowing what TownePlace you are staying at will be helpful too. There are lots of great places to eat in cities and it will be easier to recommend some if we know where you are at. Of course, I an guessing where ever you are you will be close to Lions Tap in EDEN PRAIRE (I don't why I put Eagan the 1st time!). Great Burger pub!
If you have decent garb, I'd wear it both days. Faire is such a different place when you are in garb. It is a totally different experience then just being in street cloths. A much better experience, in my opinion!
In all honesty, if you get to faire early (which I would recommend because MNRF is just that big. You really won't run out things to do and see there in 2 days) and leave late (which I, again, recommend), you won't have a lot of energy to wander too far from your hotel. A full day at faire will drain you, but it is SO worth it!..
4. Places to eat?
On Grounds there are a few places you can eat that I like the Crepes booth is good. The soup in bread bowls is also good.
Outside of Fest. Between the Fairgrounds and Eden Praire there is the Lions Tap.
16180 Flying Cloud Dr
Eden Prairie, MN 55347-4051
(952) 934-5299
They have good burgers.
Hope that helps.
Handsome James Bonney
-Bloodwake
Wow! Thanks for the responses!
Yes, we'll be staying in Eden Prairie at the Marriott Hotel, I guess there are 3 that are recommended on the main site that include tickets, so we chose the cheaper one :) Is that a good part of town? We've been to St. Paul many times, but never this part of the world.
Anywhere around Flying Cloud road would be great for places to eat and pub recommendations.
Let me personally thank you all, Noble Dreg, Leyla, tcindie, Storm, & HandsomeJames for the responses. I don't have much time to write, but I will update you with more info tomorrow.
I think I may just go as a knight this year:) Oh, and to the comment from Leyla about cheap costumes, Yep, I understand. My wifes mother is a master seamstress, so she is going to make ours. I know my wife has a pattern picked out from McCalls I think is the place?
Thanks and I'll respond with more info tomorrow! nite.
ps. Updated pic of us, since most on here have them :)
Welcome!
I have stayed at a Marriot for several years in a row, and really recommend that chain! We stay at Springhill suites in Eden Prairie, I believe.
( I would stay away from the hotel "by the race track"...)
There are also some campgrounds that alot of the crowd from R/F.com stay at...watch the Minnesota section, I'm sure there soon be a "which campground" thread!
See you at faire!! :)
Welcome to R/F.com, and glad to hear you'll be joining us at fest this year!
Eden Prairie is a fairly upscale suburb, so you'll find quite the variety of places to eat. Mainly you'll find the typical chain restaurants, but there are a few more upscale places to eat. You'll also be next to the Eden Prairie mall, and also the place where I work. You'll be able to get to fest quite easily via Flying Cloud Drive, and it will take you right by Lion's Tap pub. Very limited menu, but they're "famous" for their burgers, and have quite a good selection of beers.
Here's a comprehensive map of places to eat (http://maps.google.com/maps?near=11588+Leona+Road,+Eden+Prairie,+MN+55344+(TownePlace+Suites+Minneapolis+Eden+Prairie)&geocode=Cewmrn7tmDNrFc2BrAIdL3du-iH89x_OLqF1Qw&q=food&f=l&gl=us&dq=TownePlace+Suites+by+Marriott+loc:+Eden+Prairie+mn&sll=44.859853,-93.423825&sspn=0.024264,0.079827&ie=UTF8&ll=44.859915,-93.419065&spn=0.024245,0.041242&z=15) near where you are staying.
Hope this helps!
~DB
Welcome!
If you like sushi or mongolian grill, try Osakas.
. . . oh yeah, and the warmed saki is great too.
Mmmmmmmm... warmmmmm saki
Welcome to MRF! My advice is wear what ever you want! Heck we have had Storm Troopers and Giant Pink Bunnies. Just remember to drink plenty of water and use sun screen.
Also, you will not see everything in one day. Know this going into the show. Since it is your first time you might want to just wander and see what interests you. MRF is a BIIIG Place!
And try the Royal Navy Experience if you get the chance! I hear rumors that it is the Bomb-diggity!
To expand on Obadiah's comment it's like 22 acres so plan on a lot of walking and there are some hills and dales and no sidewalks, so plan on decent shows for walking out doors or in the mud which there can be an awful lot of if it rains.
Expect lots of naughty double entendres and bad puns. It's a family show, but families have to "get started" some how -if you now what I mean, nudge, nudge.
Welcome! All good points made so far. Can't stress good shoes enough...Lotsa walking fer sure! Faire in street clothes is a completely different experience than in garb so if you want to experience both, do so. Also, there is a lot to see so maybe plan one day to explore fest and find out what shows and events are happening that weekend so you can plan for attending some the next day.
There is quite a bit of tasty food at Faire. Some of my faves are the crepes, the spinach pie (i.e., spinach quiche), popovers, and anything at the Greek booth. Oh, and don't forget your Breakfast Beer from the Foaming Stein.;)
Looking forward to meeting you both!
After reading through all of the responses, which we very much appreciate :) I think I may go with some garb that is lighter and a bit more comfy. 22 acres is WAY more than what we expected. The reason we chose MN to be our first, is we just love going to the cities to have fun, plus I'm a Wild fan. Living in Rapid City, SD we missed the one in SF.
Some takeaways:
Eatery: Lions Tap, Crepes (faire), Baja Sol Grill (looks good), Osakas (we love Japanese food, dislike sushi though), spinach pie, Crepes, popovers, Crepes.............Did I mention Crepes? Would it be severely wrong to mention I've never had one? :o
Garb: I'll most likely try to have my mother-in-law make a light weight Renaissance costume from a mccalls pattern. I gotta find good shoes to match, I sure don't want to be caught wearing my hiking boots! :-[
Shows: We are interested in the Queens Tea, and don't worry about the naughty tongue-in-cheek humor of the other shows :) We've had 2 boys and know what you mean ;D My wife has a funny, naughty sense of humor too!
Time: We may be able to stay another day, I wasn't clear that the faire was closed on friday. Our 2 boys, 15 months and 3 months (Irish twin jokes are acceptable ;) ) will be staying with Grandma, and this'll be our first getaway since our new one arrived.
Just curious, do all of you work there?
How many visitors dress as mundane and how many in garb? ballpark, 30%?
for shows I would suggest Puke & Snot and definetly the Tortuga Twins. I know there are many other good ones, but these are two of our favs.
Be sure to plan on 2 days - you still won't see all the shows.
We live in Iowa and consider this our home faire. We also just started dressing at last year's faire. The bug has hit us - so far in 2009 we have been to Arizona, Scarby, Dubuque and Amana (both local), Colorado and going to KC over labor day, and Minnesota at least twice (first weekend for sure) - whew!!
Quote from: The Cleric on August 06, 2009, 02:46:34 PM
Just curious, do all of you work there?
How many visitors dress as mundane and how many in garb? ballpark, 30%?
I'm a craft booth owner and there's a number of other participants here, but there's probably more who are paying customers.
I'ld say quite a bit less than 30% come in costume, maybe closer to 10, 0r 15%. MNRF doesn't really encourage it as much as some other Renfairs do.
How upscale can Eden Prairie be they let me in, as a matter of fact they made me who I am today, kind of blows that whole theory doesn't it DB ;D
I also would like to invite you to stop by our Fest Friends area out at the MRF near the Pavillion and check us out- www.festfriends.org while your there you can purchase a day pass for $5.00 which will grant you access to the members only area - a clean covered sitting area with free ice water & lemonade all day, also a safe & secure place to drop off your purchases or extra garb you don't want to carry around all day then just pick them up when your ready to leave, saving you many trips back and forth to the car throughout the day. We are located near most the important spots such as the Foaming Stein, The Mead Booth - a favorite R/F meeting place, the Crepe booth, Bread Bowl Soup, Mac'c Pub how can you go wrong...
I work at the fencing booth. Be sure you stop by.. it's fun, and all the money we raise goes to childrens charities... plus it's one of the cheapest non-free things you can do at fest.. :)
I would agree the number of patrons who wear garb are much less than 30%.. I'd guess 5-10% occassionally peaking to 15 or 20%.
Quote from: The Cleric on August 06, 2009, 02:46:34 PM
Garb: I'll most likely try to have my mother-in-law make a light weight Renaissance costume from a mccalls pattern. I gotta find good shoes to match, I sure don't want to be caught wearing my hiking boots! :-[
McCall's doesn't have much for men's renaissance era patterns...
Simplicity has a couple nice ones, I made the first one last year, and am adding the second to my selection for this year..
If you were to go with Simplicity Pattern #4059 (http://www.simplicity.com/dv1_v4.cfm?design=4059&show=1), I'd suggest the view on the left of the package cover (forget if it's A or B)
or, if you want to go more pirate, check out Simplicity #4923 (http://www.simplicity.com/dv1_v4.cfm?design=4923) (minus the Jack Sparrow looking wig, etc)
Butterick has a pattern (B4486 (http://www.butterick.com/item/B4486.htm?tab=costumes&page=2)) for some nice looking ren era shirts
or you could probably do something decent with this obviously robin hood inspired pattern, Butterick B4574 (http://www.butterick.com/item/B4574.htm?tab=costumes&page=2).
McCall's has a decent pirate pattern, but it's decidedly less inspiring than the Simplicity one I linked above... M5446 (http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M5446.htm?tab=costumes&page=3)
just about the only other worthwhile pattern McCall has for men is the poet shirt pattern, M4862 (http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M4862.htm?tab=costumes&page=4) combine that with a pair of pants made from a pajama pant pattern, and a loop belt over the shirt and you'd be set.
Unless you're going as upper class, it's also important to keep colors in mind... Since you're talking about light-weight, you'll probably want to go for more of a peasant style, which is what I've linked here, with the exception of the pirate stuff... Pirates, like upper class & royalty, wear their fortunes...
Upper class, and especially royalty garb gets pretty spendy to make, and isn't generally what one would consider light weight. So I'd suggest more peasant-ish. For that you'll want to stick to earthy colors, off whites, no satins and such.. go for cottons or linens in colors that are like green, yellow, rust/orange, browns, subdued reds.. the colors that would have been easy to come up with materials to make the dye (like grass or berries). Purple is almost exclusively a royal color, blues tend to be kind of in the same boat, though you could get by with a lighter blue without people looking at you too funny..
I think there's a post somewhere in the garbing section that covers this stuff better.. otherwise there's some good info on color/fabric options and such on the website for the Bristol Faire here (http://www.renfair.com/bristol/participant/costuming.php).
Almost forgot shoes...
There are two quick easy and cheap solutions for shoes.. first being to pick up a pair of cotton kung-fu shoes... they kinda look like mary janes, tend to be $10 or less. You can get those with a natural sole or rubber.. if you can find rubber I'd suggest that.. with all the little rocks on the ground, your feet will thank you by mid-day.. :)
Second option would be a pair of Minnetonka Moccassins. I would suggest the Side lacing (http://www.minnetonka-by-mail.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=227) version... If you cut the fringe off the top they look very Renaissance-y.. in fact most of the guys at the fencing booth did just that for their first pair of boots -- they've since moved on from that, but in a pinch they work and look decent. Not to mention they're pretty comfy.
A little more expensive option would be basically anything from SCABoots.com (http://www.scaboots.com/). One of our guys has a pair he bought ten years ago, he's beat them up pretty hard and they're still waterproof.. that's as good a recommendation as I can give for those.
I can also highly recommend Excalibur Leather (http://excaliburleather.com/index.html) for gloves, boots, hats and other accessories.. unfortunately they don't list boots on their website, but I bought a pair (that look like the SCABoots.com boots) from them at fest last year for $90 when I broke the pair, beyond repair, I'd made myself one saturday morning.
And then of course there are the much more expensive custom made options
Turtle Island (http://www.turtleislandmoccs.com/index.html)
Sod Hoppers (http://www.sodhoppers.com/)
Native Earth (http://www.nativearth.net)
and probably a bunch more I'm forgetting..
Don't forget "Heart and Sole" for shoes. They are at the fest and the owners are members here on the forum!
Greetings!
Yes, I have a shop at MNRF. :)
If you haven't seen it yet, here's the link to the official website. ( I do wish they would update the entertainment and food menu pretty soon.)
http://www.renaissancefest.com/MRF/index.html
Hope you have a grand time visiting our faire!
Quote from: Noble Dreg on August 06, 2009, 08:53:30 PM
Don't forget "Heart and Sole" for shoes. They are at the fest and the owners are members here on the forum!
I knew I was forgetting somebody! DOH!
Quote from: The Cleric on August 06, 2009, 02:46:34 PM
Eatery: Lions Tap, Crepes (faire), Baja Sol Grill (looks good), Osakas (we love Japanese food, dislike sushi though), spinach pie, Crepes, popovers, Crepes.............Did I mention Crepes? Would it be severely wrong to mention I've never had one? :o
The Mongolian Grill there is to die for. I don't mind sushi myself, but have to be in the mood for it. I believe they have other menu items as well from the kitchen.
QuoteGarb: I'll most likely try to have my mother-in-law make a light weight Renaissance costume from a mccalls pattern. I gotta find good shoes to match, I sure don't want to be caught wearing my hiking boots! :-[
Having previously worked Safety Services in past years (we walk anywhere from 30-40 miles per day) I wear Son of Sandlar boots. They have a multitude of styles, colors and such. They have a website, but it isn't update yet to include their product line. However, you can google it and they do have a myspace and a facebook page with photos.
I highly suggest that whatever you buy, get athletic insoles with arch supports. The sole of most footwear you will buy that would be appropriate will be very flat on the inside.
QuoteShows: We are interested in the Queens Tea, and don't worry about the naughty tongue-in-cheek humor of the other shows :) We've had 2 boys and know what you mean ;D My wife has a funny, naughty sense of humor too!
The Danger Committee is hilarious as well. The Feast of Fantasy is an awesome experience as well. 7 course meal, all you can drink and great entertainment.
QuoteJust curious, do all of you work there?
How many visitors dress as mundane and how many in garb? ballpark, 30%?
Not all of us work there. Although the number of us here that work there has risen quite a bit over the past year it would seem. If I'm not mistaken, the number of people who don't work they still outnumber the number that does.
As for the rough guess as to how many playtrons (garbed customers) vs. paytrons (mundanes). It's hard to say really. On some days you'll look around and hardly see a single person in garb. Then other days, it's like it's the plague and that is all you get are customers in garb!!
I've heard a lot of comments over the years from people who have been to a lot of different faires all over the states and the most common thing I hear about ours is that we have a comraidarie unmatched by any other faire. The number of actors on street is greater than most other faires.
I think you picked the right faire!
Rafe
A little late for this year (perhaps), but Margo's Patterns (http://www.margospatterns.com/) are considered by many to be the ultimate in Elizbethan patterns.
Very good stuff.
For me personally, I work for a disreputable gaming booth. ;D
I resemble that remark.
My husband and I are crafters at Minnesota and have built a recreation of a Burton show wagon for our new display. It is a beautiful piece and you should come and see it. We also offer 10% off to renaissancefestival.com visitors on our hand blended perfume and hand blown glass bottles. Just print this note out and take it to the booth. We have over 400 original recipe perfumes available and specialize in custom scents.
We are # P-41, and are located next to the bear stage and across from Bad Manor. We hope you have a lovely time and stop by and see our new attraction.
Adelia Ganson
I second the recommendation of the Son of Sandlar boots. You can buy them at fest and they have many styles on hand.
Don't forget to check out I' Arroganti's commedia del arte show at the Arbor Stage. I'm performing with them this year.
Make sure you have a good belt and pouch to carry your money. Butt-packs don't look good with garb.
Wear lots of sunscreen! Don't bring in water bottles unless they're empty. Management doesn't allow any outside food or beverage.
If you have any questions while you're at the faire, there's an information booth near the front gate, and a couple of information people wandering the grounds - look for the green and yellow outfits and the bell flags. Safety services wears red and yellow.
Did I forget anything? Oh yeah, don't forget to have fun!
You will love your first visit to the Faire.
Be prepared for any type of weather. Hot, cool, rainy. Umbrellas or rain ponchos.
Being you are bringing young ones, fill your stroller or whatever you haul them in full of supplies you might need. You can always go back to you car but unless you park close it could be a walk.
As far as garb wear whatever you are confortable in and like to wear. You will see all kinds of crazy costumes that are not really fitting in the peroid but it is more about having fun. Yes many do take the time and attention to be somewhat authentic which is great also.
Have fun.
The must see show at MNRF is Vilification Tennis! There is only 1 show a day so you do not want to miss it!...
Welcome!!
Costumes range all over the place. Wear what you think is comfortable for the first time, if you just want to dress up, by all means dress up! Once you experience it, you can determine if you want to invest in more historical/expensive stuff. A basic black belt from any store like Target or similar goes a long way if you're wanting a belt. Pouches are pretty easy to make out of fabric and are equally as easy to find out at festival. Mens costumes are pretty simple, a McCalls pattern as you mentioned will get you what you want. Use something breathable! As for shoes...comfort is best. Moccasin types work well!
Shows I recommend as people mentioned: Tortuga Twins, Puke and Snot, and if you like fire Tastes like Burning is another good one. If you see a name that sounds interesting, check it out or there are any number of people who you could probably ask if they've seen it and what it is. People are pretty helpful there!
Hope you both enjoy and have a great time! Looks like I'll be missing you when you're in town!
If ..... they have Villification Tennis this year. And
If ..... you go to see it. And
If ..... the announcer asks if there isn't anyone who is familiar with it. And
If ..... you are sitting with some R/F members. And
If ..... they tell you to raise your hand.....
Beware!
And after you raise it in the air anyways, have a great time! ;D
:o
Thanks tcindie and Rafe and for everyone else who responded. Tomorrow we are heading out to find some simplicity patterns, so well see how it goes.
Rafe - when you say Mongolian Grill, is that on the faire ground?
Also, we are both interested in this Beer for Breakfast...where can that be found? After all, it is our vacation ;)
Lady Renee Buchanan - I think you scared me enough to keep my arms down :)
Thanks for all of the recommendations for shows, Hopefully we can stay 2 days.
As for costumes - I think we are just going to go for the time period and call it good. Once we are pros like you guys, then we'll worry about whether it's authentic :) I'm kinda particular but since we are newbies, we'll just throw caution to the wind!
by the way, with 22 acres....is there a map at the front gate?
They have little brochures that have maps! One really awesome thing is, they are doing a lot of renovations this year and all the booths have numbers! So, if you find a shop name that sounds interesting...you'll actually be able to tell where you might find the shop you're looking for!
Quote from: Lady_Lily on August 07, 2009, 09:33:44 PM
They have little brochures that have maps! One really awesome thing is, they are doing a lot of renovations this year and all the booths have numbers! So, if you find a shop name that sounds interesting...you'll actually be able to tell where you might find the shop you're looking for!
Very good. I'll be especially looking for homemade mugs/imported steins. I have a neat collection, small (only 3) but all of them are castle / knight oriented.
I'll find out tomorrow if we can extend our stay, hopefully so!
The only show I am able to recommend is the armored joust. ;D
All shops have numbers and have had, for as long as I have been there, which is 12 years. Not all numbers are as visible as they should be, though.
Maps are available at the front gate, additional info for each weekend is on a flyer you can pick up at the information tent, near Bad Manor. If you can't find something, they can tell you where it is.
Oh, we are not supposed to be selling anything *imported*, only artist made, juried in products.
Hope you find our faire to your liking. ;D
I've never seen anything like a Mongolian grill on faire grounds (although that would be AWESOME)...
But, I can tell you the best mongolian grill in town (in my opinion anyway) is Khan's. There are three of them in town, the closest to where you'll be staying is off of 494 & Portland Ave.
Beer for breakfast!!! Every day during the run! Find most of us at the Foaming Stein for the first pint of the day. Usually, for me, by 9:05. ;D
Quote from: Marietta Graziella on August 08, 2009, 08:12:56 AM
Beer for breakfast!!! Every day during the run! Find most of us at the Foaming Stein for the first pint of the day. Usually, for me, by 9:05. ;D
I'm surprised nobody has pointed out the 10am meet 'n' greet at the Meade Booth!! That's pretty much where everyone from this forum checks in with each other each morning.
When I have "company/newbs" at the faire I start out by taking them to Fest Friends tent to get daily pass (just think if ur gonna buy 2 bottles of water for $2/piece uv almost paid the $5 to join FF with their free bevs not to mention discount food coupons), then over to the 10a Meade Booth, then on to The Dregs (these 3 things are all in the same area) then rush over to get good seats for Vil Tennis. If ur hungry that may be a good time to eat lunch (while someone holds ur seat) altho I try to wait til afternoon when lines aren't so long. Wander around in afternoon to look at shops and see shows. You'll prolly be amazed at how fast time flies, then head back to the Dreg-along at 6p. Assuming the schedules remain the same this yr!!
Hey Ryan...
If you guys do manage to stay for 2 days try to stick around until the end one of them. They have little something called Drum Jam at the end of the day. It's pretty cool to see!...
Also, if you are interested in unique mugs that may not be castle or knight orientated check out Docs mugs at Mug O' Woods. You will never find anything like them. Not sure where he will be selling them this year. 2 years ago he had a booth, but last year he was selling them out of a little stand.
Hey Ryan,
Haven't noticed it mention this yet, maybe I've missed it but you can also find the site map and info on the website http://www.renaissancefest.com/MRF/ to help you some plan your visit in advance ... there you'll find lists for ... food ... artists ... entertainment and roughly their locations that will give you a good start then you can allow us to lead you astray from there...
Clearly the Foaming Stein and the Mead Booth are first thing in the morning 'must sees' just so happens the Crepe booth is between them so your set to start the morning right. Grab you morning starters then just a few steps over the the Fest Friends area to get you day pass, sit down and plan your path for the day with your new friends! See you soon.
I have not seen anyone mention that getting there early, besides the parking advantage, you will as a 'first timer' probably enjoy the opening gate show which often can be quite humorous if they are on their game... especially if they get off the track and adlib...
Ooops I stand corrected the 'site map' is appearantly not on the website ... so I guess you will have to wait to get that at the gate!
Quote from: Lady_Lily on August 07, 2009, 09:33:44 PM
They have little brochures that have maps!
There was a thread here with a link to a satellite photo of site that was adjusted to include a better to-scale portrayal of where stuff is, but I couldn't find it again. Anyone know where it went?
I just put the address - 12364 Chestnut Blvd., Shakopee, MN 55379 - into Google Satellite ... not very up to date, but it will give you some idea of the massive size of the grounds as well as the Pavillion & joisting field for landmarks to start with
Wow, I really need to make a word doc for all this info, just so I don't forget it all. I think I will.
We went shopping yesterday, got material for both our garb getups! I'm excited ;D Even though it may not be expressly authentic, I've never had a custom costume sewn just for me. My wife is getting a fancy dress made and I'm going as a cloaked thief looking guy.
Has anyone heard of Hancock Fabrics? Well yesterday we went there and they had all Simplicity Patterns on sale for $1. Yep $1! I saw online they were only 10 bucks, in store they were anywere from 14-17 a piece normally. So we bought about 11 costume patterns, some for me, some for my wife, some for our kids when they reach age.
Total cost for the fabric for my wifes dress, patterns, trim, my cloak, shirt was about $140. Thanks tcindie for the Simplicity tip, I got the 2 you linked too, plus a few more. My wifes mom has a touch screen sewing machine, I guess it's more of a computer, so hopefully she'll get them done before Sep 18th.
Marietta Graziella, Goody - I mentioned the foaming stein, looks like my wife is up for it, so it looks like that'll be our first stop. And we'll need to join that $5 fest friends as well, free water sounds good to me. Goody, we'd be willing to meet at the mead booth at 10am and go over some details over a pint! We renew our vows at 12pm - I wonder how public that will be, sometimes I get :-[ :-[ :-[
Storm - thanks for the tip on Doc's Mugs, we'll def. check it out, and we'll probably stay the entire day to view the closing fire show or whatever they have at the end.
der idee_mann & Lady L - we'll be there at the opening for sure and thanks for the tips on the maps!
I'm off to google earth to check out satellite views.
Ps. We didn't find any talismans, boots or daggers (that weren't made in china) yesterday during our shopping trip, so we are just going to get shoes online most likely and then get the rest of the stuff at the faire.
Quote from: Marietta Graziella on August 08, 2009, 08:12:56 AM
Beer for breakfast!!! Every day during the run! Find most of us at the Foaming Stein for the first pint of the day. Usually, for me, by 9:05. ;D
Yayyy!!!! Hopefully you'll be my first sale...unless you go to Toar ;)
Well since I can't tip you "properly"... ::)
Say... where do we tip the beer rogues?!?
Quote from: Marietta Graziella on August 09, 2009, 11:36:37 AM
Well since I can't tip you "properly"... ::)
Say... where do we tip the beer rogues?!?
I think they have cod pieces with coin slots like a piggy bank... ;)
Quote from: Deadbishop on August 09, 2009, 12:01:57 PM
Quote from: Marietta Graziella on August 09, 2009, 11:36:37 AM
Well since I can't tip you "properly"... ::)
Say... where do we tip the beer rogues?!?
I think they have cod pieces with coin slots like a piggy bank... ;)
Now all the guys at fest are gonna want one! LOL!
:o SNAP! :o
ROFL
You can expect to.....
1) Have a GREAT TIME!!! Spend the weekend at the MNRF!!
2) TAKE YOUR TIME!!! It will take an entire weekend or several trips to take it all in.
3) Enjoy the performers at the stages and along the way.
4) Enjoy the talents of the vendors. Many of them have become friends of mine over the years! I have my faves that I patronize each year.
5) OBSERVE PATRONS who come dressed to the festival. These are hard-core people who become a part of the festival and village scene. They live for this!! AS many of us here do. Then in the coming years, you will come dressed in garb that suits you to be more a part of the festival experience than just merely observing it!
6) TAKE PLENTY OF PICTURES!!! Visually record your first experience!!
7) Most of all...HAVE A GREAT TIME!! I can never stress that enough!!!
Quote from: Lady Renee Buchanan on August 07, 2009, 05:40:17 PM
If ..... they have Villification Tennis this year. And
And after you raise it in the air anyways, have a great time! ;D
There will definitely be Vilification this year! :)
Work has literally been keeping me so busy I haven't had time to login and check out how the faire is going. Update though. We couldn't make it to the mid Sept weekend like we had planned (had to go to Denver), so we are heading there this weekend.
We are staying for 2 full days, saturday and sunday. I will have my first version of garb done by Thursday, and my SCA boots should be here tomorrow. Thanks for all the suggestions, hopefully my garb v1.0 turns out ok <bitenails>
Since we'll be staying for 2 full days, we are going in street clothes the first, and garb the second. The forcast looks cool....so I'll be throwing back some brews to stay warm! :)
A few quick questions.
1. Anyone meeting up on Saturday or Sunday for breakfast?
2. How much cash should we bring if we eat/drink there all day? Do places take debit?
3. Are there any indoor spots to avoid the rain?
Looking forward to meeting you guys!
I don't think any of the food or drink booths take debit/credit cards, but as far as I know if a merchant takes a credit card they take a debit card, I sure don't treat them any differently.
There are at least four pubs that are more than just beer stands where you could get out of the rain, otherwise there's just artists booths for shelter as long as you don't stay too long, and stay out of the way.
Those pubs would be.. Mac's, Queens, Folkstone, and...... I can't think of the other one... but you want Mac's or Queens anyways.. They's the Jaycee pubs!! ;D
I would recommend bringing plenty of cash for food and drink. Pretty much every food and beverage item costs 4-5 dollars.
Also, if you plan on drinking plenty of brews and have a big mug I suggest bringing it (or buying one at at faire). All the pubs and beers stands will only let you walk away with one glass per person. Those big mugs hold 2 beers and they will put 2 in them and call it good since you are technically only walking away with one mug (never mind that it has 2 beers in it.) Topping your mug off, with tip, will cost you about 10 bucks.
Personally, if you plan on eating and drinking at faire all day. For 2 people I'd bring 100 bucks in cash (each day!) just to be safe. You probably won't spend all of it, but you never know. A person can go through cash in a hurry out there. Besides food and drink there are the shows to see and it's nice to have cash to put in that hats of the performers too!
Also, thought there is no breakfast planned there will be a meeting of R/Fer's at 10:00 am at the Foaming Stein on Saturday for breakfast beer. There is a thread about that here wits directions as to were that is and everything. Check it out of you are interested!..
I just reread everything that was posted, had to refresh my brain! A big Thank You to all who have posted, we appreciate the time you took to help out a newbie. :)
My boots came in yesterday....though I'm getting nervous, saw some pictures of folks dressed up and my garb looks pretty plain in comparison :-[
Again, thanks to all. We are both looking forward to the faire, it's going to be a great vacation for us. I'll be hunting for my tankard in the morning to use all day, probably hit Docs like someone said.
Cheers! Let's hope for a change from rain to shine!