Although some may conjure images of Italian painters and sculptors when they think of the 15th century, the annual Renaissance Festival has added activities such as cupcake battles and interactive mermaids to change this popular belief.

Cassandra Beckmann, marketing representative for the fair, said the goal is to have activities for people of all ages to enjoy.

“We hope to attract more visitors this year than last year,” Beckmann said. “We’ve added more activities in order to do that.”

At the cupcake show, amateur and professional bakers submit their cupcake recipe for a chance to win a prize and bragging rights. The $25 entry price for the baking contest also includes a daily admission ticket. The competition takes place Sept. 14-15.

Sophomore Jack Hollinger, who attended the festival last year, said the new activities make him want to return.

“The people were friendly and the events were fun to do,” Hollinger said. “I would definitely go back for the cupcake show.”

In addition to the new attractions, Beckmann said the fair offers an uncommon array of shops.

“The festival provides a unique shopping experience,” Beckmann said. “Artisans sell handcrafted wares all throughout the park.”

Senior Leah Seal-Gray said she enjoys shopping at the booths because the merchandise is unique to the fair.

“I absolutely love all the fantasy artists that open shops,” Seal-Gray said. “I especially love the fairy sculptures and all the sparkly glass.”

Additionally, Beckmann said the festival offers 16 live entertainment stages as well as street acts throughout the festival grounds.

Senior Caitlin Glennon said she went to the fair last year and was impressed by a street act.

“There was a lot of knife throwing,” Glennon said. “It was a creative way to entertain the crowd.”

Beckmann said another aspect of the fair that draws in many people is the Royal Joust. It occurs three times daily and is a free event. Participants can pick a side and root for their knight to win the joust.

“Mostly everyone loves the Royal Joust,” Beckmann said. “It’s one of our biggest attractions.”
Glennon said the lively spirit of the fair impressed her.

“People really got into the spirit of the fair,” Glennon said. “Some had really elaborate costumes, and it was fun to watch them.”

Beckmann said the festival is a good place to go to spend a day walking around and participating in the various activities the fair has to offer.

“It’s just an overall great place to hang out with friends,” Beckmann said.

Seal-Gray said she is looking forward to returning to the fair this year, but recommends it to a specific crowd.

“It’s fun if you enjoy dressing up or role playing, and enjoy a good laugh,” Seal-Gray said. “I will definitely go again this year, because I love the general atmosphere, love interacting with all the other fantasy geeks, and love shopping there.”