By Louis Zylka
The 830 Times
The Del Rio Renaissance Faire will return to the Whitehead Memorial Museum on Friday, Oct. 9, from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 10, from 5:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
The Del Rio Renaissance Faire began three years ago and is inspired by medieval periods and 16th century European aesthetics. Eighteen vendors will be in attendance, selling various food item, art and handcrafted items.
Haven Mancha, spoke with The 830 Times about this year’s “Ren Faire” and what makes it different from those in previous years. Mancha said the creation of the faire is based off her experiences visiting other renaissance-themed festivals out of town with her partner, Nathan Villarreal. She mentioned the best way to describe the Ren Faire experience is by calling it “whimsical,” which she wants to create for people in Del Rio.
“I want everyone who attends the fair to experience some whimsy and magic along with friendship; I want the general public to enjoy whimsical things, even if it makes you feel silly at first,” Mancha said.
Mancha said the major change for this year’s faire is it will start at later times, which gives people more opportunities to visit after getting off work. Mancha also mentioned the change in times helps turn the faire into a night market and make it easier for guests who might have heat issues.
Mancha said the entertainment would include presentations on the history of the spinning wheel by Myles Kent Jakubowski from Wood Troll Studios. Members from Draculina’s Nerdvana and the Tipsy Gecko will participate in a bellydancing performance. Minor Farms will be in attendance with their petting zoo, and a masseuse will also be on location offering massages. Mancha mentioned that no pets are allowed at the faire.
The Ren Faire will have a costume contest and a beard contest, which involves judging an individual’s facial hair based on length, style and quality. Mancha said attendees can dress however they please, adding that her team have seen people dress in various creative outfits in the past. She also said there will be a professional photographer on site to take photos.
Besides vendors selling customized foods for the Ren Faire, Mancha said the Whitehead will also be selling turkey legs and draft beer. She said her team’s relationship with the Whitehead has been in good standing.
Entry fee for the Del Rio Renaissance Faire will be $5 per person. Children five-years or under and seniors will be free to enter.
