I took my first trip to Ren Fest this year so I was not dressed in character. However, many people got into the spirit -- including a guy we met named Anthony who was dressed as Capt. Jack Sparrow (are Pirates of the Caribbean Renaissance folk?), down to the guy-liner and I actually did a double-take to see if Johnny Depp was in the house!

There also were a lot of people sporting foxtails (more than one of which had their butt sniffed by my dogs -- it was all a bit confusing for them).

The dressing up would be fun but I, for one, would not be comfortable oozing out of my clothing the way some of the women arrived. I'm not a prude and the chin-high bosoms of the wenches didn't bother me since it's all in keeping with the festival, but the bikini tops that show the years of wear and tear and that multiple children have grown beneath this belly skin I could have done without. There are some things that should never see the light of day (yes, my mid-section was well covered).

As a newbie to the fest, I loved the fairies (one of which made my dogs all sparkly with fairy dust) and it was so much fun to interact with the various characters. The families that participate and have their children in costume were wonderful to watch -- what a great way to spend a Saturday!

Oh, I love the fairies too! I like the Renaissance gowns but don't think I could handle wearing one in summer. They seem super hot, temperature wise;) I like the henna painting, pretty hair accessories and jewelry booths, and I love the paper mill. I could just spend all day in the shady confines watching pulp get smashed into paper, scented and bound into journals. I do get a little overheated and sick of the crowds. I think three hours is probably the longest I can stay. The Ren Fest is a great spot for people watching and my family will be going one of these weekends.

I was afraid some of the women in constume would sneeze and fall out of their dresses.