May 31-June 1 & June 7-8
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun.
18 adults | $13 62+, military & ages 13-17 | $8 ages 6-12 | Free younger than 6
Camp Richardson | South Lake Tahoe, Calif.
Family Day
June 6 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
$7 adults| $5 6-12
Step through the gate and go back in history to a time where Queen Elizabeth ruled the land. Be delighted by the minstrels, Thespians, pirates, pranksters and bards that roam the streets of The Shire during the 22nd Valhalla Renaissance Faire from May 31 to June 8 at Camp Richardson in South Lake Tahoe.
The Valhalla Renaissance Faire is one of the most respected and loved faires in California, says Marti Miernik of Renaissance Productions. The company works hard to keep the festival geared toward teaching the history of the renaissance, he says. Many of the actors are teachers and educators who dive deep into recreating the lifestyle. Additionally, a lot of time and money go into creating accurate and elaborate costumes. Outside of the fair, the company works with local schools and teachers to put together special shows and workshops for students.
“When you come to our shows, you actually get a taste of the time period,” Miernik said. The actors engage guests as soon as they walk through the gate. Instead of being a passive audience, visitors are encouraged to become a part of the show through the entire fair.
From May 31 to June 1, the Shire is under the Scottish Invasion. This weekend celebrates the Scottish heritage and caters to renaissance history. Many characters in the shire come from Shakespearian influence including Horatio, Romeo and Juliet, and characters who serve as muses to Macbeth. This weekend tends to be more family oriented compared to the second weekend where the Shire is under Barbarian Invasion. Pirates and scoundrels roam the village causing havoc and mayhem, because what is a renaissance fair without a little havoc?
The shows during the second weekend tend to be a bit more risqué, however, the fair is still generally family friendly. Queen Elizabeth and her royal court roam the Shire through out the show keeping tabs on her kingdom and insuring all is well.
Staged shows featuring favorite characters from the Renaissance fair circuit take place each day including comedy, magic and music. Broon, a magician and comedian with a large following returns this year to keeps audiences in stitches while performing card tricks, juggling acts and a dash of fire swallowing. Broon’s performance appeals to viewers of all ages combing subtle jokes with engaging visual acts.
New to the Valhalla Renaissance Faire stage is The Universe According to Galileo. This unique experience brings the audience into an interactive classroom with the Maestro. Using a bit of wit and improvisation. Galileo Galilei teaches the fundamentals of science and astronomy, as they were known at the time.
Capitan Jack entertains the crowd with a variety of characters played through puppets. The Merrie Praynksters is a group of dancers who are sure to entertain. Bocce tournaments, giant jenga and sword-fighting lessons are just a few more ways to keep the kids entertained through the day.
The Imperial Knights take to horseback for a jousting tournament twice daily. Not for the faint of heart, the jousting tournaments are full contact with Knights dressed in armor. Merida from the movie “Brave” makes a special appearance to compete in the archery tournament and engage children in Scottish history.
As well, about 80 vendors will be on site selling a wide variety of crafts including leather works, jewelry, woodwork, swords and daggers, costumes and more. Sierra Nevada Brewery will be hosting a beer garden and themed food will be offered, including large turkey legs.
Creating a costume is highly recommended. Come prepared with an active imagination and a desire to join the show. The best way to enjoy Valhalla Renaissance Faire is to jump in head first and become part of the action. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit valhallafaire.com.
