By Heather Madsen
If you love dressing up, historic crafts like blacksmithing and woodworking, performance art, or festivals in general, then May is going to be a fantastic month for you. The Utah Ren Fest is back for its 16th year and it’s bigger and better than ever! As usual, the festival will be held at 940 West 17th Street, Marriott-Slaterville City, and will be open the last three weekends of May from 10 am to 7 pm.
The Ren Fest is a beloved event that has grown from a small Renaissance fair to an elaborate festival that draws fantasy lovers from all over the state. Fans and performers work on their elaborate costumes for months in preparation, so nearly every person you see there is a work of art. There are also an array of talented artisans selling their wares, ranging from blacksmithing to woodworking. There are also live performances, on several different stages; enjoy the live music, be enchanted by magicians, and so much more. If you want to see some more intense action, head on over to the archery and sword fighting demonstrations. Or perhaps you’re looking forward to one of the biggest events of every weekend: the equestrian games. Come marvel at the mounted archery, jousting, and horsemanship!
Each weekend of the festival also has its own theme. May 13th and 14th are all about faeries. Dress up in glistening wings and discover the fun to be had in the Fae Court! May 20th and 21st are pirate themed. Put on your finest eye patch and scour the fair for hidden treasures! Finally, May 27th and 28th are focused on Vikings. Celebrate your heritage and/or the culture of one of the first explorers of the New World!
Anyone who dresses in costume gets $2 off their tickets at the gate, so don’t be shy; put on your best pirate pantaloons or viking helmet and come join us at the Utah Ren Fest! More information can be found at utahrenfest.com.