The spirit of the Renaissance returns to Southwest Michigan this coming weekend as the Niles Renaissance Faire is set for Saturday and Sunday at Plym Park in Niles.
Renaissance Faire founder Carrie Nyenhuis tells us the event is entering its ninth year, offering visitors a chance to experience a more magical time.
“If you think of kings and knights and sword fighting and stuff like that, that’s pretty much what a Renaissance Fair is,” Nyenhuis said. “We have vendors and performers and food vendors and activities for kids.”
Nyenhuis says the weekend will include vendors selling kitchenware, jewelry, and clothing, among other things. There will also be performances, reenactors, and even a bard who can spin a yarn a mile long.
So, why do people love renaissance fairs so much?
“They feel like they can step back and be somebody that they’re maybe not normally. I think there’s a lot of wonder and excitement and feel-good vibes.”
Nyenhuis says they’ll also have food vendors, including one who sells huge turkey legs, although he tends to run out quickly.
The Niles Renaissance Faire will start at 10 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday, running through 6 p.m. on Saturday and 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids, veterans, and seniors.
Nyenhuis notes it’s not necessary to dress up for the event, although plenty of people do.
You can learn more about the Niles Renaissance Faire right here.
