Celebrating Folklore and Fantasy
Thunder Bay’s First Renaissance Faire
Story by Sara Stoppel, Photos by Gwen McCrone
Hear ye, hear ye! This October 11 and 12, all fair ladies and lords are called to wander through the gates of Thunder Bay’s first ever Renaissance faire at the Murillo Fairgrounds from 10 am to 7 pm each day. The event is hosted by the Oliver Agricultural Society and a team of volunteers, and fairgoers are encouraged to don their best medieval capes, crowns, and chainmail for the most mystical of weekends.
The family-friendly event will feature live equestrian entertainment, including a troupe of professional jousters, a fencing demonstration from Thunder Bay’s Historical European Martial Arts, mainstage music, and food vendors. Axe-throwing, spear-launching, fencing, and archery will be available for the bravest of peasants who dare to try their hand. Also included is a medieval market filled with artisans and craftspeople, a falconry, and a children’s area that is sure to enchant the curious and crafty types.
“Renaissance faires are having their own renaissance, in a way,” says Steph Simko, a member of the Renaissance faire planning committee. What first began in the 1960s in California as an homage to history has grown immensely. Over time, the celebration began to incorporate folklore, fantasy, and different periods in history, and people just can’t get enough. “I think people are looking for more opportunities to do something a little bit more fun, something out of the ordinary,” she says.
With Ren faires popping up around North America, and the nearest event being in southern Ontario, the demand for a local Ren faire was high. Whispers of a faire in the community were widespread, it was only a matter of time until medieval magic came to Thunder Bay. Many people grew up reading tales of dragons, quests, and medieval times. Now, they have an opportunity to live out their wildest wizarding dreams. “It can be a really freeing experience for those who are interested in history,” Simko says. “And with the fantasy element, people can act and cosplay, which is something they don’t really get to do in everyday life.”
Simko and her team are excited to see the community come out and celebrate. “One of the great things about a faire is going and seeing all different people in all their different costumes who are just as excited about history and fantasy and things that are out of our day-to-day,” Simko says. “We’re just a bunch of nerds who wanted to create something special.”
For tickets, visit oliveragriculturalsociety.com/tbrf