It’s been about 11 years since the last time I went to the Sterling Renaissance Festival (The RenFaire as it’s locally known). In that time it has added: several new stages, more places to get get food and drink and more shows. Amongst the things that didn’t change, the atmosphere and the fun.
The Festival is a grate escape from the mundane world. When you pass through the gates, you step in to the Shire of Warwick circa the 1580’s. You can choose to walk around in your mundane garb, rent a period costume or dress in your own period garb (the best way to immerse yourself).
The last time I attended I went in my own cranberry colored monks robes, complete with hood, belt and drinking horn. Unfortunately, as the Festival has grown, so have I 
Unlike my friends, Dan and Renee, I had to rent an outfit As a plus, the Shoppe had a Set of Friars robes, making me feel less out of sorts.
After my fitting, my traveling companions needed to check to see if some of the items, they previously ordered, had come in. First was a leather shop, carrying everything from purses and pouches up full hardened leather armor. Out next stop was a Tinsmith. Here, there were really amazing fountains, statues and amazing garden art.
Our final stop, before the serious wandering could begin, was to a chainmail worker, where both my companions picked up jewelry.
From here out day was wandering form shop to shop, show to show with occasional stops to fuel up on food, booze and water.
Amongst our wanderings we caught Don Juan and Miguel’s “Don Juan in Heck”. After an impressive display of Whip-play, Don Juan and Miguel dual to the death. Don Juan loses, then bargains with the Master of Heck for his release.
We also caught the Falconry Demo in the Jousting Field (We didn’t make the Jousting Tourney…this weekend 
) The Master Falconer has several birds including an Owl and Hawk as well as the Falcon.
We encountered the pirates at the dunking pond, trying to decipher a treasure map. As chance would have it, two of the wards of Warwick stumbled in during the parley looking for their secret admirers.
My favorite of the shows was, Johnny Fox, a sword swallower, prestidigitator, and philosopher. Johnny Fox is one of the 50ish working sword swallower left in the world. He is amazing, engaging and funny. He also runs the Sweet Nut concession
how sweet is that?
Again, this is another performance you have to see in person…I did capture some video of his act tho
We finished the day at the Pub Sing. Along the way we did stop to eat, drink and be merry. I’m almost ashamed I waited so long to go back.
This journey is a little over an hour form my house. So far it’s the most expensive attraction I’ve been too ($24 to get in, food is all about $7). However, its the most entertainment for the money I’ve spent.
This is something you really have to do if yer in Upstate NY in July or the first couple of weeks in August.
Get out there any try it, you’ll not regret it!
