Valhalla Renaissance Faire
(June 5th & 6th, and June 12th & 13th)

For two weekends in June, the quaint charm of Merry Olde England comes to South Lake Tahoe and Camp Richardson is transformed by the Valhalla Renaissance Faire. This acclaimed Renaissance themed event gives visitors the chance to experience the authentic sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the 16th Century.

Every year, the event has a special theme, and for 2010 it is Shakespeare’s Muse. Characters from The Bard’s plays will be brought to life in the form of vignettes and over 900 costumed entertainers will fill the streets to create an authentic Elizabethan town. There will be shopkeepers and artisans adding to the ambiance of the faire.

There will also be a host of exciting re-enactments featuring Queen Elizabeth’s court and expertly staged battles scenes, jousting displays, archery tournaments, dancing, plus lots of wonderful theatrical performances and plays. With six stages of continuous entertainment, it promises to be a history lesson brought fantastically to life. Merchants will be selling their wares featuring a wide array of Elizabethan arts, crafts, woodwork, jewelery, ceramics, clothing, hats, accessories and historic weapons.

Some of the wonderful performers include The Bubble Fairy, a bubble artist who creates a visually magical spectacle for children and the young at heart; Fowl Tales billed as 1 man, 3 parrots, and a dog; The Myth and Magic act whose gut busting comedy show encourages active audience participation; Danse Macabre: a motley crew of dead dancers whose motto is dance now, or forever rest in peace; Trey Cromwell, a professional juggler, contortionist, and general all round show-off; The Merry Pranksters who will be whirling around the show performing their unique country dances; plus many more.

In addition to the general Shakespeare theme, each weekend will have its own special theme. The first weekend is called Fantasy Alive and will bring fantastical magical creatures to life in the form of wizards, elves, fairies, and other mythical creations. Children can participate in scavenger hunts and enter the Fantasy Costume Contests to be judged by Shakespeare himself. The second weekend is all about Pirates and the Barbarian Hordes and is aimed more at adults. There will be costume contests and even a “Talk like a Pirate” competition.

The Valhalla Renaissance Faire will be held on June 5th & 6th and June 12th & 13th.and it runs from 10-6pm on Saturday and 10-5pm on Sunday. Tickets cost $17 for adults and $12 for children 13-17, seniors, military, and $7 for children 3-12.