By Michael Nunes
Every year, Liberty Lake is transported back to a time of kings, knights and knaves. But this year, pirates are set to invade the scene at the New Jersey Renaissance Faire.
This year’s festivities at Liberty Lake Park are set to be held May 23, 24, 30, 31 and June 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The faire is set the fictional village of Crossford, located in northern England. This tiny Elizabethan village will be the center of a pirate raid lead by the legendary scallywag Edward “Blackbeard” Teach.
Undeterred by the pirate attack, vendors will be on hand to peddle a medieval medley of goods reminiscent of the 16th century.
Among the vendors is glass blower Jason Klein, who will return once again this year. Klein’s hand crafted glass works have been used in movies such as Pirates of the Caribbean and The Hobbit.
For children, there will be family friendly shows and games.
Visitors may also encounter a crew of actors will be dressed in Elizabethan attire, who will interact with fair goers to fully immerse them in the Renaissance theme.
The fair, which is now in its 6th year, is set to feature close to 70 vendors.
Six stages will be set up and dedicated to live entertainment, including fighters who display their sword prowess with the blade in elaborate sword fighting matches, and acrobats ready to show off their aerial expertise.
Fire breathers as well as a live interactive comedy show featuring William Shakespeare, the Bard of Avon, will also be featured.
Food will also be available for those who want to chomp down like King Henry the VIII. But if turkey legs or pickles on a stick aren’t your fancy, there will also be more modern foods like Italian sandwiches available. Adults may also enjoy the event’s wine garden.
Other attractions include a joust event and a human sized chess game. New events, such as the burly Scottish Highland Game and Caber Toss will test the strength of those competing.
Past years have feature Scottish freedom fighter William Wallace, the Three Musketeers, Robert the Bruce, King Arthur and his knights, and the legendary Robin Hood.
Tickets are on sale online at around $20 for adults and $12 for children age 5-12.
For more information, go online to njrenfaire.com.
Annual Renaissance Faire to open May 23.,
