Joanne Williams
Editor

(Photo provided – Lady Petal is an apt guide in the magical world that is created at the Eaton County Fairground during the annual Magical Realm Fantasy Faire, June 6 -7 in Charlotte.)

 

What do a Centaur, a pirate, and Pestis the Plaque Rat have in common?

Residence at the Eaton County Fairgrounds during the annual  Magical Realm Fantasy Faire, Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to  6 p.m.

The event will feature live jousting, sword fighting, fire shows, live music, more than 90 merchants, the Naughty Gnome Tavern and more.

Yes, there will be entertainment from A – Apollos the Centaur, to Z –  Zarochi, performing Celtic folk music on the Irish Bouzouki.

And we haven’t even addressed the various Fairies, Wizards, Dragons and Knights.

This Faire, which first started in Marshall and has been in Charlotte for about eight years, offers entertainment, merchandise, activities and food and refreshment for all ages. There is no need to wear a costume if you do not want to – but, why wouldn’t you?

This is a chance, organizers say, to find your niche, since the Faire does not focus on one genre or time period.

“People should come just to have fun,” said site coordinator Tom Jones. He admits he did not come in costume at first. He has built his attire up over time.

For the uninitiated, the Faire has few rules. There is an admission fee, with children 4 and under admitted free with their guardians, as well as other ticket options. No pets, except service animals. Jones said engage with the Cast, which is made up of members of the group The Side Quest Guys, and have fun.

Fittingly, a group of college friends initiated and helped grow this event over the years, Jones said. Now registered as a non-profit, funds are given to those in need. This year, it is Serpentine Sweetness Reptile Rescue and Helping Hands Food Pantry.

There are more than 90 vendors, from authors to weavers to visit. There will be food and drink, including a mead drinking area. Exhibitions of jousting, fire throwing, dancing, singing and more are planned. There is also a children’s area as well as various themed encampments.

Organizers write, “The format was inspired to provide a place for anyone to come and feel welcome, wearing any costume they might happen to have.”  They are planning for up to 3,000 visitors over the weekend.

Learn more at www.TheMagicalRealm.com