2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival

The 30th Anniversary of the Family Fun Event in Holly, Michigan

Sep 4, 2009

2009 marks the 30th Anniversary of the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Located in Holly, Michigan, there is fun for the whole family as they travel to the 16th century.

As summer gasps its final breath and the air starts to feel a little crisp, the time for the 30th annual Michigan Renaissance Festival has begun. Queen Elizabeth Glorianna, the Lords and Ladies of the Realm and the entire eclectic cast of characters welcome all visitors to Hollygrove for fun and feasting.

2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival Entertainment

Showing up a half hour early is a must to start off the day at the 2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival. While patrons wait for the gates to open, characters weave their way into the group and interact with the people. This culminates with the coming of Queen Elizabeth Glorianna entering the village of Hollygrove. The gates are then thrown wide for the awaiting throng of people.

From the entrance the entertainment choices are varied. Interacting with the participants, from the Queen to Hob the troll, can happen anywhere so there is always a chance to be part of the fun. Watching other patrons that are dressed up can be fun too. They range from authentic 16th century garb to absolute fantasy.

Where the fun really begins is on the many stages around Hollygrove. There are 16 themed stages and fields scattered around the 17 acres. Brand new in 2009 is the story of Robin Hood that is played out around Hollygrove. Each act is at a different stage or place in the village. Other popular acts at the 2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival are The Washing Well Wenches, Ded Bob, The Zucchini Brothers, and whole lot more. They can be very adult oriented so keep that in mind. People with children may want to sit on the fringe in case they need to make a quick exit.

The biggest draw has to be the full contact armored joust. This takes place on the Field of Honor. Four knights representing differnt countries from around Europe square off. After showing their skill with the lance by gathering rings, they ride at each other breaking their lances and knocking each other off their horses. Once on the ground they go after each ohter with swords, hammers and morning stars. This part is like watching a WWE match and is a lot of fun. Each section of the crowd is given a champion to cheer for becoming part of the event.

2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival Food, Artisans and Merchants

One of the best things at the 2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival is the food. It might not be healthy, but it sure does taste good. A very popular food item is the turkey drumstick. Cooked over an open flame, it’s big and messy and delicious. It can also be used to bop little brothers on the head with if they are annoying.

Some other delicious things are the Scotch Eggs and the Soup in a Bread Bowl. Scotch Eggs are hard boiled eggs wrapped in sausage. It makes an scrumptious breakfast. Soup in a Bread Bowl is just that. The choices are broccoli and cheese soup, chili, and barley beef soup. Some other excellent food choices are the Steak Sandwich and Shepherd’s Pie. A giant pickle is a must have when wandering around Hollygrove.

For dessert there are Ice Cream Sundaes, but a visit to The Monk’s Bakery is imperative. There are giant cinnamon rolls and many different cakes to choose from. Another place for dessert, and new to the 2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival, is the Giant Gourmet Cupcakes.

Once patrons are done eating they can then spend their money at the hundreds of merchants. There is everything one would expect at a Renaissance Festival. Visitors to Hollygrove can get swords, armor, and renaissance costumes. There are staves, jewelry, clothing, candles and everything in between.

There are also several talented artisans at the 2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival. After watching the glass blower, people can the buy a vase or other handmade glass items. There is a metal worker who creates copper roses. There are a few craftsmen that work wonders with leather. A lot of talented artisans brought their art work to the 2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival.

2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival Themes

The 2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival is each weekend from August 22 – October 3. Each weekend has its own theme. The themes for this year are:

2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival Ticket Prices

The copyright of the article 2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival in Michigan Travel is owned by Shane Werlinger. Permission to republish 2009 Michigan Renaissance Festival in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.