Are they all just focused on sex, debauchery, lots of drinking today? I went to the one near Pasadena around a decade ago, maybe related to the OG faire, and there was so much sexual humor in the open air (like jokes shouted by storekeepers, and in the play being run) where I'd consider it an adult environment. It was a little disappointing because I was expecting something like a live-action museum, sort of like colonial williamburg in VA, but it was more like a party with expensive shit (I think a bottle of water was like $7?) being sold and drunk people stumbling. The highlight was just talking to a blacksmith who was making nails by hand who seemed serious about his craft.
back
6 comments
I recently went to the New York one. It seemed to mainly be about cosplay (showing off your own cosplay, vendors selling cosplay-related supplies) and various kids activities. Although there certainly was drinking, and a car crash - probably caused by the drinking - very soon after the exit from the parking lot.
Coming from the experience in the PNW, 1960s onward, Renaissance fairs were never about serious historical reenacting. The sex/drugs/music were always focus, sort of like a Grateful Dead concert without the band.
Yes, they are primarily based on moneymaking entertainment, as you have guessed.
There are more historically-oriented "entertainments", but they tend to be both non-profit and not audience-based (everyone attending is in costume).
Depends on the crowd at Irwindale. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCThN5D3ICk
> Are they all just focused on sex, debauchery, lots of drinking today?
...As opposed to the actual medieval period, which was famously chaste, calm, and sober?
Is that not authentic?