The 9th annual Tennessee Medieval Faire will run three consecutive weekends on Saturdays and Sundays beginning October 5, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. rain or shine, at 550 Fiske Road, Harriman. Free field parking is provided, with handicap parking available near the entrance. The grounds consist of semi-rugged terrain with grass and some topography.
Throughout the eight-acre medieval village, professional acts will seek to entertain. Tournaments of skill will include The Royal Joust by Equus Nobilis and Human Combat Chess by the interactive street characters.
Demonstrating circus talents will be aerialists The Mandy Circus on October 5-6; The Flaming Ginger on Oct 12-13 and 19-20; and award-winning teen juggler, The Amazing Atticus. Back by popular demand will be interactive comedy trio, The Tortuga Twins; and Middle Eastern dance will be showcased by Tanasi Fusion Oct 12-13 and Misfit Gypsies Oct 19-20.
Patrons will enjoy the folk music by The CrossJacks, Kris Colt-The Black Rose, Estaban Diego of Landloch’d, Cory Whipple, Timothy Russell, Catalina the harpist and Bravura Music Academy.
Costumed street characters will also seek to entertain in the Tales of Robin Hood, The Sheriff’s Follies, Throw Me a Line, Chester the Heroic Little Pig and Sherwood School.
Interacting with these costumed street characters is encouraged. Patrons should come to the festival with a sense of play. Wearing a medieval costume is optional, but patrons can enter the costume contest to win a prize. Patrons are also encouraged to share a talent in the Gong Show or to get knighted after a chess match.
For the more romantic, folk dancing and speed courting are offered. There will also be unicorn photo opportunities, axe-throwing, corn hole, giant chess, steel drum and other games.
Visit the website for entertainment details. Schedules will be available online before opening and at the festival entrance.
A variety of juried craft vendors will sell costumes, accessories and gifts.
Food will be available for purchase, including turkey legs, BBQ, loaded nachos, loaded baked potatoes and desserts. Hot and cold beverages will also be sold, including beer for adults ages 21 or older with a valid photo ID. Vendors are independent businesses that accept cash or credit.
Admission prices: $20 for 13 and older, $10 for ages 5-12 and free for ages 4 and younger. Tickets may be purchased online here or on festival days at the ticket house for cash or credit.
The sponsorship motel is Days Inn by Wyndham of Harriman. For special discount, call Cindy at 865-882-6200 and mention medieval. Book early as reservations are first-come-first-served and are based on availability. There is no public camping onsite, but a list of all local accommodations has been provided by Roane Tourism: here.
Festival rules include: No firearms or sharp weapons; metal-bladed weapons must be sheathed and zip-tied; and arrows must be peace-tied in their quiver. Service animals only. All costumes and behavior should be family-friendly, and footwear is required. No outside food or drink (except for those with small children or a medical condition).