Hear ye, hear ye, by a royal-in-spirit decree, all subjects of Memphis are invited to the Renaissance Faire this Saturday at Wiseacre Brewing Company.
The day will have “live music, a mermaid, face painting, dancers, a queen who will knight fair-goers, and armored knights doing demonstrations,” says event organizer Ashley Riley. “There will also be several vendors selling medieval garb, jewelry, and accessories, as well as plenty of food vendors — including the iconic turkey leg, a staple at any Renaissance fair.”
The event also promises to be family-friendly, and costumes are encouraged — for kids and adults alike. “I’ve never been to a Renaissance fair before,” Riley admits, “but it’s something I’ve always wanted to experience. I know Memphis loves a good themed event, and with so many costume possibilities — from fairies and knights to pirates and jesters — the Ren Faire seemed like a perfect choice.”
Further, the Renaissance Faire is an opportunity to support students experiencing homelessness, the number of whom doubled in Memphis since the pandemic to around 2,100. In her role working with EverDriven, an organization that, in partnership with school districts, provides transportation to students experiencing homelessness and students with special needs, Riley says, “I regularly meet with homeless liaisons from across the Mid-South and hear their stories and those of the students they support. One thing that’s consistently mentioned is the need for school supplies.”
So, even though the event is free to attend, fair-goers are encouraged to bring school supplies to donate; you can also find a few local teachers’ classroom wish lists on the event’s Instagram page (@renaissancefairememphis).
“We hope everyone who attends this Ren Faire experiences a strong sense of community,” adds Riley, who had the help of Allie Trotter, Wiseacre’s manager; Caity Luman, a professional theater costume designer and local jewelry artist; and several volunteers in launching the event. “By donning our Renaissance garb, dancing, enjoying the entertainment, and supporting the amazing venue, we’re all contributing to something bigger — a cause that gives back to our community. I hope people leave feeling inspired and uplifted, knowing that they’ve been part of something positive for the most vulnerable in our community.”
Renaissance Faire, Wiseacre Brewing Company, 2783 Broad Ave., Saturday, August 17, 1-6 p.m., free.
