About This Festival

Southern Indiana Renaissance Faire Overview

Location and Surroundings

The Southern Indiana Renaissance Faire is held at Swifty Farms in Seymour, Indiana. Seymour is located in Jackson County, which is well-known for its rich historical and cultural heritage. The area is supported by the Jackson County Visitor Center, which provides comprehensive information on local attractions and activities. The fairground itself offers a rustic and historical setting, ideal for immersing visitors in the Renaissance era.

Event Vibe

The Southern Indiana Renaissance Faire is a celebration of history, fantasy, and entertainment. It features themed weekends throughout the summer, including Celtic, Fantasy, Steampunk/Time Travel, Pirate, and Viking weekends. The event promotes a lively atmosphere with performances, interactive activities, and a marketplace filled with artisanal goods. Visitors can enjoy medieval cuisine, watch jousting tournaments, and participate in various crafts and games.

Activities and Schedule

  • Performances: Expect lively shows by jesters, comedians, musicians, and acrobats. Specific acts include Oil, Ebeneezer Grumpypants, Travelling Druid, Hero of Mime, and Pyrate Presdigitator.
  • Combat Demonstrations: Witness thrilling sword fights and jousting tournaments.
  • Marketplace: Browse handcrafted items such as jewelry, clothing, and home decor.
  • Food and Drink: Savor turkey legs, sweet treats, and indulge in ale and mead at the on-site tavern.
  • Interactive Activities:
    • Archery and Bow & Arrow Tournaments: Test your skills in paddock areas.
    • Swordmasters Challenge: Engage in mock sword battles.
    • Royal Falconer: Watch live bird shows.
    • Treasure Hunts: Explore the grounds for hidden treasures.
    • Crafts and Workshops: Learn medieval crafts like blacksmithing and weaving.

Rough Schedule:

  • Event Times: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Theme Weekends:
    • April 26-27: Celtic Weekend
    • May 2: Student Day
    • May 3-4: Fantasy Weekend
    • May 10-11: Steampunk/Time Travel Weekend
    • May 17-18: Pirate Weekend
    • May 24-25: Viking Weekend

History and Founding

While specific details about the founding of the Southern Indiana Renaissance Faire are not provided, it is part of a larger tradition of Renaissance faires that have been popular in the United States for decades. These events often originate from local interest in historical reenactments and cultural celebrations.

Accessibility

The event is handicapped accessible, ensuring that all visitors can participate in the festivities. Tickets are available for purchase, with special discounts for students and military personnel on certain days.