16th century village enjoys a renaissance at Fuji park

For two days a year, Fuji Park goes from a small open space at Carson City's south end to a bustling haven of 16th century life.

The park becomes awash with the sounds of the minstrel and the thump of the blacksmith's hammer against glowing metal during the Pembrooke Renaissance Faire.

The fair runs from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Emerald Rose Productions, run by Natasha and Sean Kiernan, saw the need for an event like the fair several years ago and decided to organize one. The couple has always been interested in the Renaissance and wanted to make an historically accurate fair for the people of Carson City.

While the construction at the park has forced the fair to downsize the popular jousting contest, Natasha Kiernan said it will still be one of the biggest draws and a personal favorite of hers.

"It will still be jousting just on a smaller scale, and we will return to the large-scale jousting event next year," Kiernan said.

The Knights of the Crimson Rose, based in Fallon, will be hosting the jousting event this year.

The fair will include 40 vendors, including several new additions such as a hookah booth and a craft booth specializing in Indonesian masks.

"We are always looking to add new and different craft and food booths, especially local vendors," Kiernan said.

The fair will also see the return of some of the biggest draws from last year, including the blacksmithing demonstration, jugglers, comedians, pony rides, kids games and the archery booth.

"We had one last year and they gave a great history on archery, plus we've added one that has a castle backdrop which allows you to feel like you are storming the castle," Kiernan said.

A group of privateers - pirates with permission to pillage - will also be docking its ship, complete with a 40-foot mast. They offer a glimpse into the life of 16th century seafarers.

This year also sees the continuing story of Queen Elizabeth, who is looking for a potential suitor.

The Earl of Leicester Sir Robert Dudley is attempting to woo the queen and gain the English throne.

The idea is that visitors have stepped back in time and the characters don't see them.

Visitors are encouraged to ask questions, as the characters possess a lot of historical information.

"The joust is awesome, the village blacksmith is cool, the Bawdy juggler, the naughty minstrel, the privateers are all great, and the kids games are always fun," Kiernan said. "Any one of those things could be the best thing here, depending on your taste."

A portion of the ticket proceeds from the fair will go the Boys & Girls Club of Western Nevada.

• Contact reporter Jarid Shipley at jshipley@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.

If you go

What: Pembrooke Renaissance Faire

When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday

Where: Fuji Park

Cost: $12 for adults, $6 for children ages 6-12, $5 for seniors and students with ID.

For more information: Go online to www.pembrookefaire.com