Folsom Renaissance Faire returns to welcoming crowds

After cancellation last year, the sights, sounds and tastes of the era of Queen Elizabeth I entertained Folsom this past weekend as thousands raised their stein to the return of the annual Renaissance Faire at Folsom City Park and Dan Russell Arena. Celebrating its 28th year in Folsom, the Renaissance Faire saw thousands pass through its gates once again, all coming to enjoy its interactive experience with musicians, jugglers and the ribaldry of actors that drew patrons into the magic of years long ago. More than 800 different costumed performers participated in the two-day affair, all of which illustrated their passion for the time period by bringing Shakespeare and Tudor England to life with parades, pageants and reenactments of fun townsfolk. "You get immediate entertainment, from the moment you tromp through the gates," said Marti Miernik of Renaissance Productions, who has been managing shows throughout the region for decades. "There is always something for everyone at the Folsom Renaissance Faire, from little kids to parents and grandparents." The weekend event offered numerous stage shows and fun for all ages. More than 40 guilds presented a vision of history to greet patrons as they strolled through the event. In the arena, both days offered displays of archery and the thrill of jousting performed by professionals from around the world, donning complete knight attire on horseback. While the actors and show presenters were dressed in full attire, many of those attending this annual event joined in the fun as well. Patrons of all ages were seen strolling the grounds, many dressed in period-themed costumes and joining right in with the historical dialogue as they mingled with actors and other guests. Annaka Scholer brought her sister, Dianna, to the event. While the two sisters were dressed as "dueling dames," as they called it, their little ones joined in the fun as well, modifying their old Halloween costumes that were originally pirates and gypsies to fit the theme "We come here just about every year, " said Scholer. "If we don't come to the Folsom one, we usually visit the one in Tahoe and combine it with a camping trip. This is always so much fun. It's so great to have it back and the kids were so excited to use their costumes that didn't get used too much last year with their Halloween carnival being cancelled." The city of Folsom is known for playing host to many largely-attended events, such as the annual Rodeo and Hangtown Motocross. While the Renaissance Faire doesn't get the same caliber of fanfare and promotion in the community, the event certainly brings tourism into the city during its stint as participants stay, play and dine in the city. For more photographs of the 2021 event, visit the Telegraph's online gallery at www.folsomtelegraph.com.