Once again we made our annualtrek to the outskirts of Shakopee, Minnesota to partake in the Minnesota Renaissance Fesitval. The weather was a little gloomier than it has been in previous years, but we made the most of it.Typically, the first thing we do is scan the list of activities (which was not available at the entrance gate). Sowe found ourselves wandering around taking in the sights!
We watched a bellydancing show. I must say, it was quite entertaining!The biggest surprise for me was near the end of the show when thebellydancers invited all of the children in the audience up on stage for a "dancing lesson." To my surprise, the only kid that wanted togo up on stage was my 3 year old daugther, Julia. She is normallyquite shy, but was outgoing that day! She got to dance with oneof the bellydancers and the "Pasha." The Pasha was a guy that theyhad picked out of the audience to be a part of the show.
The parade is always a sight to see. Every once in a while,the characters of the Festival line up and parade thru the village.Cole's eyes were wide with wonder as a seemingly endless streamof animals (snakes, elephants, horses, etc) and interestinglooking Festival characters (King, Queen, knights, entertainers, etc.)marched by for all to see.
The food, as usual, was delicious! We simply had to have someof our old favorites (like the turkey drumsticks) and also sampled some new taste treats. Food can get a little pricey, but itsure beats going hungry and definitely adds to the experience.
This year we managed to catch quite a few shows. The variety ofentertainment one can find there is surprising. Plenty ofperiod musicans along with a fair number of jugglers, actors,and jokesters are scattered throughout the Realm.
All in all, a fun time was had by all. I'm looking forward to nextyear.
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