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| - Wench auctions! Jousting! Handmade goods covered in feathers! Yes, folks, it's time for the obligatory geeking-out of the fall season, the Renaissance Festival.
I went last year but I had limited time, so I really didn't get the full experience. Today was awesome though. Let's make a list.
1. Tickets- there are many coupons, deals, special days, and promotions available if you're on a budget. Actually last year I won my tickets in a drawing from Creative Loafing, so keep your eyes peeled. I don't think $20 is an outrageous price to pay, but saving money never hurt anyone, especially if you're paying for a group.
2. Traffic- leave early. No, really early. I think it opens at 10- plan to get there at 9:30. You won't be, but get ahead of the crowd as much as possible- the last 4 or 5 miles are on a 2-lane road and it is sloooow going.
3. Bring cash. A lot of vendors take cards, and there are ATMs on-site, but cash is just easier, plus you'll want to tip your favorite entertainers.
4. Get a map and plan out shows you want to see. It's a large space and a pretty good walk from one end to the other if you're trying to see a specific show on time. The Washing Wenches, Hey Nunnie Nunnie, the belly dancers, and of course the Joust are all worth a look.
5. Dress for a day of walking- it's not exactly rough terrain, but I wouldn't wear heels. It's also quite dusty, so expect to get a little dirty. It's wheelchair- and stroller-friendly, but nothing is paved, so bring someone muscle-y to do the pushing.
6. Costumes are encouraged! My opinion is, if it's a costume, wear it. Renaissance, Pirate, Victorian, Fairy- everything's welcome. This is a time for fun, so if you've got it, flaunt it. I am as tomboy as they come, but you give me an opportunity to put flowers and glitter in my hair and I am all over that shiz- get your hair braided ladies and gentleman, it's worth it.
7. Don't spend all your money right inside the door. There are plenty of food, beverage, and art vendors all the way to the back of the site, so take a look around before you blow everything on that leather corset.
8. Speaking of food- it is delicious, but it's a little pricey. Not horrible, but if I were feeding several people, I'd eat before I came and split something as a snack. And no, you cannot eat that whole turkey leg sir- they are delicious but I saw several half-eaten ones going in the trash- find a friend and share. Alcoholic beverages are pretty reasonably-priced, I'd say, from $4-$7, but that giant pewter mug is extra.
9. DO NOT BUY YOUR CHILD A TOY SWORD. If you must do this, do it on your way out. I saw a dad get speared in the crotch by his 3-year-old. Don't let that be you.
I think this is a great addition to the Charlotte area. It's family-friendly, it's cheap enough that everyone can go, it's a great way to spend a weekend. Really I think my only complaint is getting there. To fully serve the community, I think a bus or shuttle should be offered. My car is not functioning at the moment, and I looked up the bus schedule to get to Concord Mills so my friends could pick me up- it doesn't run on Sunday. Luckily a nearby friend let me ride with him, but if not for that, I would have missed out. At the very least, it would reduce the travel time- it took us an hour and a half from the time we got off the highway to go 4 miles. A park-and-ride station taking multiple guests at a time would be extremely helpful, and would help people enjoy the festival that either do not have cars or are unable to drive.
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