Monroe Comes Alive with Renaissance Faire
The Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire has made its way around the state and has landed just outside Monroe, in the Village of Merriwick. Originally the Washington Renaissance Fantasy Faire, this event grew into the Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire, the largest in the state. The event extends over five weekends from July into August and transforms Sky Meadows Park into what the Renaissance Faire calls the “Village of Merriwick.”
Each weekend, an estimated 20,000 attendees will make the journey to attend the show. Every weekend has a specific theme, making each a unique experience. The event starts with ‘A Magical Midsummer Celebration’, which celebrates the splendor and tapestry of the Elizabethan era. The second weekend showcases ‘Pirates’ Plunder: A High Seas Adventure’ where attendees will step into an age of piracy at the Village of Merriwick. Watch as buccaneers compete for the title of the most formidable pirate ever to sail the seven seas. After feasting on sea fare, ale, and the finest rum, you’re sure to walk away with treasure! Some of these bad-to-the-bone pirates will return for weekend three of the event: ‘Choose Your Alliance: Villain or Hero.’ However, you won’t just see pirates this weekend. the bravest of heroes, heroines and notorious villains will be making appearances. The fourth weekend plays tribute to the Vikings and Barbarians by venturing into ‘Warriors of the Wild: Swords & Shields.’ Learn about these most intriguing warriors and live as they did, if only for one weekend in Merriwick. The final weekend reveals ‘Mystical Realms: A Fantastical Finale’. Be transported by dark magic to a place where there are no boundaries to the imagination.
Marketing Director, Shana, remarks, “a unique aspect of our Renaissance Faire is the blend of historical education with whimsical fantasy. While we celebrate the Renaissance Era, we also welcome a variety of fantastical characters like faeries and all sorts of mythical creatures. This fusion creates a vibrant and magical atmosphere where history meets fantasy, offering a fun and imaginative experience for attendees of all ages. It's a place where the past and the fantastical come alive in a spectacular celebration!”
Take advantage of the unique camping experience offered on Friday and Saturday nights. Stay the entire weekend onsite with one all-inclusive ticket. Throughout the weekend, you will see an abundance of entertainment like live performances and a costume contest where you could win tickets for the following year’s Faire. Be sure to check out the many vendors the Faire has to offer. You’ll find everything from accessories and clothing to pottery, metalwork, and art. Lastly, there is no shortage of food and drink options for everyone in the family!
Enjoy thrilling jousts, explore artisanal markets with merchants who have traveled from all over the country to attend, delight in vibrant performances, and savor traditional fare. A weekend of historical adventure and entertainment awaits.
The Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire will take place July 19-21, 26-28, August 2-4, 9-11, and 16-18. For more information visit www.washingtonfaire.com
