Billowing gowns draped along the hay-encrusted grounds as two exuberant women, clad in velvet capes, made their way past us to gain entrance to the Faire. My husband and I both knew what to expect, as both having been to King Richard’s Faire in our prior lives. And as usual, we were not disappointed.
We decided to have our youngest tag along with us. He hasn’t been to the Faire since he was a youngin, sporting swords and armor, ready to battle with the king himself, if necessary. This time, grown now, he opted for shorts and t-shirt, and asked us to do the same, probably embarrassed by the costumes that we had wanted to wear. (If you would like to rent a costume for the day, you can do so from a vendor located immediately after the entrance to the faire).
The Faire grounds were filled with people from all facets of life, some in costume, some with children dressed as little darlings from period times, and others just there for a good ol’ drinking festival, clutching elongated flasks filled to the brim with dark ale.
The air was crisp, with a light chill of autumn resting on our shoulders. The aroma of freshly baked bread drifted, making us scurry to the nearest vendor to satisfy our cravings
We opted for the White Chowder in a bread boule, which is freshly baked bread hollowed out, with a creamy, white sauce chowder and an abundance of clams poured into the bread and served with the lid for spooning out the chowder.
Succulent, mouthwatering turkey legs, freshly cut fruit in cups, ‘The King’s Nuts’ (which was my favorite) — roasted pecans with a sugary topping, crispy fried dough showered with powdered sugar and cinnamon, homemade fudge , ‘spirits’, water and sodas.
You never have to worry about going hungry in this place!
Still licking our lips from our delicious meal, we wandered around the faire, hoping to spot a view of the king and queen. We encountered minstrels strumming on their instruments, wizards, cloaked in decorative costumes, wenches willing to chat (or so they say) with you, knights and barbarians, offering to battle it out to the end, and costumed vendors offering their hard worked items for a reasonable price.
Rides are also available throughout the faire grounds, keeping in mind that they have adapted the rides to the theme of the Renaissance times. One ride in particular caught my eye, and that was the Gryffn Swing, where a giant mythical creature swings groups of people, provoking squeals of laughter from the children and grownups alike.
We knew we wanted to experience every event that we could, so we continued along our way. My guys decided to try their hand at the archery stand, showing off their perfect skill at hitting the bulls eye, after about ten attempts.
Well, let’s say that they were sort of close.
If archery is not for you, there are many other challenges like axe throwing all designed to test your strength and skill; prizes are awarded for some events.
There were performers throughout the faire grounds; mimes, jugglers, street entertainers, talented musicians and even some surprise guests.
We had to watch the “Mud Show”. Slapstick comedy and child appropriate “dirty humor” involving, of course, mud, is just about as silly and funny as a set of renaissance-era performers can get. Just avoid the first couple of rows of seats… there’s a reason that experienced attendees leave those seats open for unaware newbies. Not just the performers end up covered in mud and laughing about it.
The most popular attraction at the Faire is, of course, jousting… the ever-popular “battle to the death”. Let’s admit that horses are amazing creatures on their own, but with talented athletes daring injury or worse to entertain us, it’s hard not to feel your heart pumping!
Amidst the vibrant festivities, I couldn’t wait to witness the legendary jousting tournament that had drawn me here. Finding a spot near the jousting arena, I eagerly waited for the knights to take their positions. As the fanfare announced the beginning of the event, my heart raced with anticipation. The thunderous sound of hooves filled the air as the armored knights charged toward each other on their noble steeds. With each clash of lances, my adrenaline soared, and I found myself cheering for the gallant competitors. The breathtaking display of horsemanship, skill, and chivalry transported me back to the era of knights and maidens. It was a mesmerizing spectacle that left me in awe, and I couldn’t have asked for a more exhilarating experience at King Richard’s Faire.
Believe me, you are well entertained when you attend King Richard’s Faire!
So, it was time to head home, and we were quite exhausted from walking around the faire grounds. We had just about made our way to the exit, but paused for a moment as we starred in awe! There they were; clad in soft, velvet robes, flowing gowns, adorned with rubies and diamonds, ornately decorated crowns, and a large court that followed. The King and Queen of the faire. People everywhere, bowed and curtseyed to the royal couple, as they headed to the jousting arena for the battle to the death from the mighty knights of the king’s table.
Now our day really was complete, having seen the King and Queen of the realm, and we could head on home, knowing that the events of the day would linger in our thoughts.
So, if you want to spend a day, free from the stressful events of everyday life, wipe all your worries away, and be entertained for a minimal cost, then come to King Richard’s Faire in Carver.
You won’t be disappointed!
LINDA EAGLESON is at
heart an essayist, exploring the world around her and her feelings about it for most of her life. She lives a simple life and finds joy in simple things like a comfortable chair or an unexpected explosion of dandelion blossoms. She loves the outdoors and enjoys bringing her experiences to her readers.
Linda’s works have appeared in the Westerly Sun and in the pages of Rhode Island Roads, Jaunting, and Northeast Traveler. She has also presented her work at poetry slams and open readings across the state of Rhode Island.
