Labor Day Weekend Faire Bringing The Renaissance To Bucks County

DOYLESTOWN, PA —This Labor Day weekend, the sights and sounds of the Renaissance are coming to Doylestown with magic, juggling, axe-throwing, galloping horses, fire breathers and all sorts of legendary fun.

The inaugural Bucks County Renaissance Faire unfolds this Labor Day Weekend, Saturday Aug. 31, Sunday Sept. 1, and Monday Sept. 2 on the grounds of Moravian Pottery and Tile Works Museum at 130 E. Swamp Road in Doylestown from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

From captivating performances on multiple stages to an artisan marketplace bustling with unique treasures from more than 60 craft vendors, the Bucks County Renaissance Faire will offer something for everyone. A variety of foods and treats, such as a classic turkey leg paired with a libation from local favorite Crooked Eye Brewery, will be available to delight your taste buds.

For a refreshment the whole family can enjoy, step into The Human-Powered Snow Cone Machine, a hamster-wheel-like contraption that allows guests to create their own frozen treat.

The event also features several award-winning headliners, including "Shakespeare Approves!" a family-friendly show that takes audiences on hilarious adventures, and juggler and sideshow performer David Darwin with his amazing stunts, including sword swallowing. Celtic magicians Daniel and Bella GreenWolf will also be there to dazzle audiences with fire-breathing and interactive comedy.

Juggler and sideshow performer David Darwin entertains. (Rylan Lott Photography)

Musical standouts include Foxy Bard and Twig, a duo offering a unique blend of Renaissance music, folk, and world music; Philadelphia's Triantán, blending traditional tunes with modern energy; and a capella group Pieces of 8, a family of travelers entertaining audiences with
songs and stories from a great many places.

After a rollicking tune, visitors can "shame thy friends" by enlisting the services of
Swashbuckling Mercenaries for Hire. They'll toss patrons in the stockades and give them the ol' fuzzy tomato for unforgettable fun. Linwe, a vibrant belly dancer skilled in cabaret and fusion styles, also will showcase her talents with veil and sword work.

Krystal Younglove, the Indestructible Lady, will present classic sideshow performances featuring animal traps, piles of glass, and beds of nails. Phoenix Swords, a troupe of swords-people, will educate and entertain with their knowledge of weaponry and valiant battles throughout the day.

Amidst all the action, be sure to take a moment to admire the venue of TileWorks, offering historic tile tours where guests can explore the decorative halls and workshops, and watch craftsmen turn Bucks County clay into tiles. Horse-drawn wagon rides will be offered on the historic grounds.

Pieces of 8 is a family of travelers entertaining audiences with songs and stories from a great many places. (Rylan Lott Photography)

Those seeking adventure can test their skills on the proving grounds with archery, axe-throwing, and dagger-toss, culminating in the "Fight the Knight" challenge. Guests can also learn the art of whip cracking from Sean the Whipsy Rover, and behold the craftsmanship of Rabenwald
Metalsmything. These exhibitors will be joined by the Barony of Buckland Cross SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism), recreating the arts and skills of pre-17th century Europe, with tournaments, royal courts, feasts, and dancing.

Finally, get ready for the ultimate role-playing game experience with Dice Knight Adventures, where players can complete missions and explore the Faire in search of quests, items, and people. For more laid-back fun, pull up a chair in the Gaming Stronghold, where tabletop games abound.

Tickets are now available online and will be sold at the gate, pending availability. Guests are encouraged to buy tickets in advance to guarantee admission. discounts are available for seniors, disabled guests, military veterans, and children.

Philadelphia's Triantán blends traditional tunes with modern energy. (Rylan Lott Photography)