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Health & Fitness

Day Tripping Back in Time

Lords and ladies, knights and wenches—the Renaissance Faire is back. Heed my tips to get the most out of your visit.

Can you believe it's the middle of August already? Soon school bells will be ringing and, before we know it, the holiday rush will be on.

But there is still enough summer left to enjoy one of the best things the season has to offer: the New York State Renaissance Faire, a summer tradition for many of us. It is part theatre, part fair, and lots and lots of magic! For approximately seven weekends each year at this time, Sterling Forest in Tuxedo Park, NY is transported back to 16th-century England. Costumed actors, a shire (village) full of shops and wares that are sure to tempt every lord and lady, and loads of entertainment beckon visitors old and young.

For those of you that are new to Faire, you will quickly learn as you enter the gates that it is like nothing else you have seen or heard. Employees of Faire must—I repeat, must—at all times speak in the thick English accent of the era. By the time you are ready to leave Faire, you too will be speaking the same way, and asking questions like how stands the hour? (what time is it?) and where are the privies? (restrooms). You will most likely bring home the accent, but not to worry—it will disappear sometime Tuesday morning.

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There are so many things to do besides people watch and gaze at the amazing costumes (some of which leave little to the imagination, but don't worry—they keep the place family-friendly). There are jousts (2 p.m. is the gaming joust, 6 p.m. is the the royal joust), birds of prey, knife throwing, strolling minstrels, Shakespeare, a human chess game, belly dancers and more.

And don't forget the shopping—jewelry, hand-blown glass, oils, incense, stained glass, and countless other wares. Faire food is unlike any other fair food; soup is served in a bread bowl, there are the ever famous turkey legs, baked potatoes and fruit platters—and to wash it down try the mead! My hubby and two young children worked there for many years. Despite me complaining every morning as I dressed in the heavy, hot costume, thinking of the long hours in the strong sun and heat, the long lines, and the less-than-sparkling privies (they have improved somewhat over the years but I'm being kind with that comment), nothing could have kept us from working our jobs there. We all loved those times: the sights, the sounds, the scents and, of course, the shopping make for a fantastic day.

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Sterling Forest is an enchanted area anyway, and at the Faire everyone seems to be kindred spirits—all happy and friendly. If you want to do Faire right and comfortably, here are some tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes! A must even if you go in garb—there is a lot of walking, so be kind to your tootsies.
  • For those of you that don't have a costume, visitors can rent Faire-ware once inside the gates. There is no greater way to do the Faire than in costume.
  • Bring a tote bag—remember, the shopping is great. You will find items not found at any mall, and with the holiday gift giving season inching towards us, grab those unique items now.
  • Bring a camera—there are images here you will definitely want to capture.
  • Bring anti-bacterial soap or hand sanitizer. Remember those privies and porta privies fall short in the pristine department.
  • Bring sunscreen to avoid bodice burn (or the 21st-century-type sun burn).
  • Bring lots of extra cash, although most shops accept Lady Visa or Master of the Card. It's always good to have cash for the food court, games and tips.
  • You are not allowed to bring food or beverages to Faire grounds, but a bottle of water and a power bar in your bag isn't really sneaking food in; and with all the walking, you will need a pick-me-up.
  • Get there early in the day when parking is best. Late in the afternoon is okay too, as lines will be shorter. The Renaissance Faire is open Saturday and Sunday (Labor Day, too) from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. until Sept. 25. This weekend is Pirate Invasion weekend, and I heard tell Capn' Jack may be planning an appearance. So for now I'll bid you fare thee well, and remember: magic happens at the Faire... and everywhere!
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