Sandpoint Renaissance Faire returns with magic and merriment

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint Renaissance Faire features everything from music, magic, dancing and comedy to combat, feasting, and aerial arts. It will be from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at the Bonner County Fairgrounds.

"I think it brings so many different people from our community together," faire board member Cassandra Robinson said. "Every time I walk through the faire, I can't believe how many people I recognize from town who are they enjoying it."

This year's event promises to be no different, with the merriest of times on tap as the faire takes participants — and attendees — back to approximately 1583, a time when England was ruled by Queen Elizabeth I, the daughter of King Henry XII and Anne Boleyn. 

A time of cultural, artistic, and economic renewal, the period saw Elizabeth transform the country into a major power in Europe and the world. Faire organizers said there is something magical about the period — and about being able to share it with others.

And, organizers said, it's just plain fun.

"Everyone just has the best attitude and has the most fun," Robinson said. "We don't ever have any fighting or disputes and it's just such a fun place to be. Everyone's just happy."

Daily tickets at the gate are $20 for adults; $15 for seniors and youth ages 6-17; and free for children 5 and under. A weekend pass, for both Saturday, June 13, and Sunday, June 14, is $35 for adults; $25 for seniors and youth ages 6-17; and there is no charge for youth 5 years and under.

While service dogs are allowed, pets who are not working animals are not allowed as there will be animal performers.

Information: sandpointrenfaire.com