Blast From The Past: 5 Medieval Festivals
Features & Advice Cherese Weekes October 12, 2014

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock
It is a blast from the past as each of these cities convert their landscapes into medieval playgrounds. So if you have ever wanted to be a knight or crowned a king or queen here are five chances to dress up in stylish costumes and hit the streets.
The medieval time period is long gone, but these festivals relive the ancient traditions. So you want to be immersed in history or just see an exciting game of jousting, then you’ll enjoy the thrills these medieval celebrations have to offer.
Norman, OK: Medieval Fair of Norman
Who says you have to wait for Halloween to rock a knight, king or queen costume? During the weekend-long Medieval Fair of Norman in Oklahoma (March 27-29), just about everyone comes dressed to impress in their medieval threads as they pay homage to this hallowed tradition that first sparked attention in 1977. To say the people of Oklahoma go all out is an understatement because Reaves Park transforms into a royal playground, and the third largest fair in the state, where King Arthur himself wouldn't be out of place.
And if you’re looking to be entertained like a royal should be, there's jugglers, knights on horseback, reenactment performances, dancers...the list goes on.
Brussels, Belgium: Ommegang Pageant
The crowd grows thick as locals and tourists come together at Sablon Church for the procession to begin. What is all the commotion is about you may ask? It is the Ommegang Pageant, which is an annual British event emulating the festival that took place for Charles the Fifth and the rest of the royal family.
Through the years, the ceremony hasn’t lost its spunk although quite a few changes have been made, including a transition from religion to folklore. Yet, it continually holds dear to the Brits’ hearts with a variety of events like the horse parade, the presentation of the statue of the Virgin and games galore until it concludes at the Grand Palace.
Provins, France: Provins Medieval Festival
It only makes sense for one of Europe’s largest medieval celebrations to occur in a UNESCO Heritage Site. And when it comes to taking a trip to the past, the Provins Medieval Festival, which will commence in June 2015, puts on a grand show. From jugglers and men towering over the festival on stilts to acrobats stunning the crowd with their amazing movements, guests are showered with an eyeful of surprises.
Even artisans provide a taste of France’s medieval history with treasures of fabrics, clothing, old instruments and aromatic spices. Kids are also encouraged to enjoy the merriment of the Provins Medieval Festival too by partaking in activities that were a big hit during the medieval time period.
Sydney, Australia: WinterFest Medieval Faire
Are you ready to be entertained in good-old medieval fashion? Then the WinterFest Medieval Faire has all the makings of history brought to the 21st century. The festival is a world-class event that cordially invites guests to enjoy a front row seat of all the excitement that is jam-packed in this yearly event which takes place in June/July.
WinterFest Medieval Faire combines fantasy and realism to please the crowd with jousters fighting to the death as well as sightings of feudal Japan coming alive with acrobatic enactments. And if you want to take home a bit of your experience home, Merchants Row is filled with tasteful souvenirs. You may say medieval England has officially landed in Australia.
Sarasota, FL: Sarasota Medieval Fair
It is almost that time of the year when the city of Sarasota holds their Medieval Fair, and takes its locals and visitors back, way back with the clinking of swords, men donned in knights’ attires and delicious food.
On November 8-9, 15-16 and 22-23, the city will become an open stage where rides and chess tournaments in addition to the Danger Comedy Juggling & Whip Show and Renaissance Man will be the crowning attractions for anyone wanting to delight in the festival’s medieval pride. So bring your brightest smile and enjoy the diverse entertainment that is in store, which also consists of belly dancers and minstrels to quirky characters eager to make new friends.
READ ON: Want more throwback thrills? Check out 7 Astounding Reenactment Festivals.
For more information on Brussels, Sydney
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