FERGUS – Hear ye, hear ye, the Fergus Medieval Faire is back!
On July 20 the town will be transformed into a thriving medieval village filled with jousters, jesters, lords and ladies, falconers, Vikings and fairies.
The free family-friendly event begins at 11am with a welcome from the Fergus Royal King and bagpiper Joyce Reimer at the “Royal Court” outside the Fergus Public Library.
From the Fergus Market Place to St. Patrick Street and Tower to St. David Street, there will be demonstrations, activities, music, food and beverages, and crafters through every alley and at every turn.
BIA member Debb Greer said the festival paints the town “in a tapestry of mirth and camaraderie, a timeless celebration of life and community in the medieval age.”
Faire organizers Greer, Tala Jenkins and Nathalie McNeill have been meeting weekly since January and are excited for this year’s faire.
“We had over 10,000 people come last year,” Greer said.
The event is so popular with medieval performers that organizers could not accommodate all requests to take part.
Devlin McKay, whose performances will include a “dance of swords” and “weapons of war dance,” said he owes his inspiration to pursue medieval martial arts and history to his parents.
McKay also studied dance and discovered many similarities between martial arts and dance.
“To me there is little difference between dance and martial arts outside of intention,” he said.
McKay is thankful to everyone involved in the Fergus Medieval Faire.
Devlin McKay of Guelph demonstrates the beauty of dance and medieval martial arts at the Fergus Medieval Faire in downtown Fergus last July. Photo by Kaylos Photos
“Growing up going to festivals, banquets and tournaments, I feel at home at the Fergus Medieval Faire,” he said, adding that such events offer a community of acceptance, inclusivity and fun.
Greer is delighted with the calibre of talent the faire attracts and said all performers and entertainers are vetted and must meet a high standard of artistry and safety.
In Fae Lane (behind the library) wee folks and “halflings” will find free and fun entertainment.
Children can “Fight the Knight,” try archery, take in a puppet show, be charmed by Molly the Bubble Fairy and meet wizards and magicians. There will also be events inside the library.
Experience DJ Carroll’s Magic Show.
Explore Sigtryggring Vikings of Ontario Viking Village in Templin Gardens. Watch them battle and learn about a day in the life of a Viking.
Be entertained by Peter Sword Player and Ian Walsh and their medieval weapons demo.
Take part in a chess challenge with Canada’s International Chess Master Mark Plotkin as he takes on up to 12 opponents at a time.
Enjoy falconry and medieval martial arts demonstrations, a live blacksmith and axe throwing for adults.
Visit the Mystics and Diviners Tent, browse the wares in Peddler’s Village, take in the views when crossing Milligan’s Footbridge over the Grand River.
Faire-goers are encouraged to wear a costume and enjoy the colourful, spirited events that harken to a bygone era of chivalry, magic, mystery and ancient arts.
The public library will offer a cooling station.
A free water booth hosted by the Monks of the Grand will be availabe, courtesy of the BIA.
Pet Valu’s pet care station will be set up at Menzies Lane and Templin Gardens.
Choose from the many food vendors or bring your own and enjoy the picnic stations.
Many local businesses and restaurants will be getting Medieval with themed goods and goodies.
With road closures on both Garafraxa and St. David Streets, A.O. Smith, at 599 Hill St. W. offers free parking for anyone wishing to take the free shuttle bus that will run on a continuous loop every half hour, with drop-off and pick-up at the corner of St. Patrick Street and Provost Lane.
Schedules and Wayfinder Maps are available at fergusmedievalfaire.com, and at the visitor information tent at the corner of St. Andrew Street and Provost Lane.
