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Step back in time as the SA Medieval Fair returns to Paracombe this weekend

The SA Medieval Fair is back for 2024 in Paracombe, as fairgoers prepare to debut their admirable finery and dine like kings.

Image credit: Mark Hamilton Photography

Hear ye! Hear ye! Loyal subjects from wide and far are invited back to this year’s SA Medieval Fair which is actually South Australia’s original Medieval Fair.

Making a grand return this May, the SA Medieval Fair will be gracing Paracombe as fairgoers young and old prepare to debut their admirable finery, dine like kings, and celebrate all things medieval.

Since its inception in 1995 at Birdwood Mill, the Medieval Fair, born from the Folk Federation of SA, has been a dynamic journey, hopping across various locales such as Carrick Hill, Whyalla, and Gumeracha, before settling in Paracombe.

2024’s hand drawn SA Medieval Fair poster

What’s the secret behind its success? Simply put, it’s the vibrant community of reenactors, performers, merchants, and artisans who infuse the fair with its lively spirit year after year. With some participants remaining steadfast since its inception, their dedication and passion have become the cornerstone of the fair’s continued success.

This year over a fantastic two days, nearly 100 stalls featuring both local and interstate Merchants, Artisans, Armourers and Artists will be set up. See handcrafted wares, Blacksmiths, Wood Carvers, Bowyers and other makers of fine crafts as they get ready to demonstrate the skills of their trades.

In a quick fire round of what’s on offer, there’s Knights Jousting, Skill at Arms and Horseback Archery demonstrations, Battles with Knights in Armour, Living History Displays, Roman Gladiators, Medieval Archers who hold 2 x “Come & try” sessions for the public each day, Highland Warriors, Punch & Judy, Philippe the Juggler & Jess the Jester, Performers from Cirque Nocturne, Dancers and Entertainers, Musicians and Artisan blacksmiths. This year they even have a Mermaid from Mertopia!

There will be 80 Merchant & Craft Stall sites and Food Vendors featuring cuisine from around the world. 

For those of age, The Pale Raven Tavern will be serving up mulled wine, mead, handcrafted boutique beers, local wines and small-batch gins! For the whole family, fill your bellies with cuisines from around the world, as the vendors tempt you with their tasty treats.

Experience the ultimate jousting experience with The Kings Horses as they put on a spectacle like no other, and watch as The SA Horse Archery riders amaze the crowd with their accuracy with bow and arrows on horseback. Joined by displays of Highland Cattle from Mac-Ladanae Highland Fold, the day is set to be jam-packed with historical fun that will delight the whole family.

The Flinders Fencibles will demonstrate 15th Century Military swordsmanship and the Gladiators from Ludus Gladiatorum Pomponius will be fighting for the glory of Rome. A traditional test of strength and stamina by the Tartan Muscle Warriors will also take place and interactive sessions will be in order, to test your talents across the weekend.

To top it all off, one lucky ticket holder will be chosen in a random ticket draw held on Sunday 5th at 2pm, to win an exclusive one-of-a-kind handcrafted double-handed axe created by the talented skills of Firebear of Firebear Armoury!

Where: Paracombe Recreational Grounds, 383 Paracombe Rd, Paracombe
When: Saturday 4th May, 10am to 5pm, Sunday 5th May, 10am to 5pm.
Price: Adult tickets from $22.50 Book tickets here.
For more information, click here.

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