This summer I went to my first Pennsic, an annual war hosted by the Middle Kingdom of the SCA, in our mundane state of Pennsylvania. Although the event began on August 3, I was only there for the last 5 days, August 14-19. Pennsic is the largest event in the SCA, drawing attendees from all over the Known World; this year there were over 12,000 participants. Of course, there were plenty of fighters, who came for the many battle scenarios and tournaments, but Pennsic is not just for them. There was an extensive schedule of Arts & Sciences classes--dozens each day! Also lots of merchants, selling everything from armor to pottery to toys to jewelry; Bardic (musical) competitions and performances; dancing both European and Middle Eastern; and of course the parties. But perhaps the best thing at Pennsic is the experience of living, for a short while, in another world--a world of pageantry, romance, and simple joys. Next time, I'm going for a whole week!
For more information about Pennsic, go to the official Pennsic site, or try Alexander's Pennsic Pages.
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Fighters preparing for battle |
Battlefield with castle |
 Fighters
rushing the field |
A period -style encampment |
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Encampments along the lake |
The pirate ship Ravenspittle |
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The Great Dark Horde |
A Viking camp |
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The cathedral |
Wolgemut! |
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Eric and Ellie |
The King and Queen of Caid |
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The Queen of the West |
Grand Court |
