History of the Renaissance Festival by Chris Simpson
In post World War 2 America; there was sudden interest in medieval and renaissance culture. In
the 1950s there was a very strong early music revival. A renaissance is an outdoor event usually in
the U.S open to the public and place in the woods to increase the renaissance feel. Some are
permanent theme parks while most seasonal. Renaissance fairs always have an abundance of
characters in costume portraying the ones worn during that time era.
They are there to entertain the guest while they explore the fair grounds. Many renaissance fairs
are set in the reign of Queen Elizabeth the fist of England some are set early during Henry VIII
reign. But not all are set in English renaissance some are centered on Vikings and pirates. The
audience can participate in comedy shows also other performances like juggling, magic, and
music. In almost all renaissance fairs they have an end of the day ritual like a parade or dance that
brings everyone in the fair together to bask in the glory of the renaissance.
The Carolina Renaissance Festival was introduced in 1994 with six acres of attractions and
entertainment. The event has grown into a twenty acre theme park filled with cottages and
castles, kitchens and pubs, and a most unusual collection of people powered rides and games of
skill. All located in 325 acres of woodlands north of Charlotte, NC.
The Carolina event has grown to be one of the largest of the Renaissance fairs nationwide. Tree
lined lanes are filled with over 100 crafts and food, and non-stop music and comedy shows are
presented on 11 stages every event day.
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