Michigan Renaissance Festival Returns

That Time of Year

Now in its 34^th year, the annual Michigan Renaissance Festival starts transporting guests back to the 16^th century this weekend. This is that one time of year where southeast Michigan residents can dress up as elves, knights, faeries, and princesses and go to the Village of Hollygrove. This made-up land, on the border of Holly and Groveland Twp. is ready to go with new shows and returning favorites.

Beat the crowds and arrive early, they open at 10:00 a.m. with free parking. Upon entering the gates, you will be handed a program of the day’s events. Check the times and locations of the shows you want to see and then set off to explore the 15-acres of entertainment, shops, and food.

New Shows and Events

The festival will have a new mermaid show this year, called Blue Mermaids, and they will be splashing around in the all-new Mermaid Lagoon. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see and interact with these mystical maidens of the deep! Don’t forget your camera,” says the website.

Ladies Shopping Day is also new. Held on Friday September 27, this special event day is only $20 per person. “Grab your friends and join us for a day of shopping and wine. Your discount ticket includes festival admission, glass of wine and a coupon book with amazing discounts from select Festival Artisans.”

While the joust is a staple at the festival, Brothers in Arms is a new jousting troupe this year. “Knights in shining armor, ladies in majestic gowns, the grandeur of colorful warhorses, all the pomp and pageantry that has thrilled imaginations for five hundred years,” brings years of experience together for a new take on a old crowd favorite.

Back Again

The Tortuga Twins, Ample & Trite, the Ded Bob Show, the Washing Well Wenches and many others return to the various stages at the festival this year. Bocca Musica is also back. “The group is known for their spicy and raucous sense of humor along with their tight harmonies,” and should be considered an adult show only.

The festival runs for seven weekends (including Labor Day) and offers a different theme each weekend. Opening weekend will have a pet costume contest and a homebrew competition. Here is full list of the themed weekends and dates, Huzzah!

• Royal Pet and Ale Festival: August 17^th and 18^th
• Highland Fling: August 24^th and 25^th
• High Seas Adventure: Aug. 31^st, Sept. 7^th and 8^th
• Shamrocks and Shenanigans: Sept. 14^th and 15^th
• Harvest Huzzah: September 21^st and 22^nd
• Sweet Endings: September 27^th, 28^th and 29^th