My 5 favorite things to buy at Ren Faires

A Milliner's Musings: My Favorite Renaissance Faire Finds!

Well met, gentle patrons! We're already halfway through an amazing year of Renaissance Faires and Festivals, can you believe it? As I get my hats ready for the Central Coast Renaissance Festival in San Luis Obispo on July 19th and 20th, I'm getting quite excited about doing a bit of my own shopping at the fair. I always try to take a little time at each festival to explore and support my fellow artisans. I already have a specific 16th-century costume, so I don't typically buy clothing, but there are a lot of other treasures that always catch my eye!

Food!

My favorite finds are often the treats we don't see often in California, like British-style meat pasties and pies. Oh, and Scotch eggs—they make an excellent breakfast! I also adore unique pastries like chimney cakes, depending on the fair. A good meal makes for a happy milliner, I always say!

Wine Glasses or Mugs!

Many festivals host live glassblowing demonstrations, and I absolutely adore blown glass wine glasses. Alas, I'm also a bit clumsy, so anytime I break a glass (after I'm done being sad, of course!), I can look forward to finding a new one at the faire. I've also discovered some amazing and unique ceramics at Ren Faires. Ceramic mugs work wonderfully with my costume and are often very affordable for handmade, usable art. Gorgeous and practical, indeed!

Soap!

Some of my all-time favorite bar soaps, salves, and fragrances I've found at Renaissance festivals. From solid perfumes to homemade "icy hot" (which is truly great for sore feet after tromping around all day!), every time I use them, it takes me right back to the fun I had that day.

Toys and Gifts!

I've found delightful handmade stuffies, puppets, intricately carved wood, and even clever 3-D printed goods. My family are big into D&D and Magic the Gathering, and many festivals have accessories that make excellent gifts for your favorite geeks.

Leather Accessories!

One of my uncles used to be a leatherworker, and my first shoes were a pair of moccasins he made for me. I loved those shoes so much I threw a huge fit when I couldn't wear them anymore! Leather accessories go wonderfully with Renaissance costumes, but they can also transition nicely to daily use. Belts, bags, shoes, and dramatic leather armor pieces I've purchased at Ren Faires all enhance my family's garb.

So, there you have it! A peek into my own fair-going adventures. What's your favorite thing to buy at Renaissance festivals? Do share your treasures!