In collaboration with the Society for Creative Anachronism, Athlone Castle will host its seventh annual Medieval Fair on August 31 and September 1. Running in conjunction with the Athlone RNLI River Festival and supported by the Heritage Council, this year's fair will be a celebration of living history, music, and dance.
Commencing with a festive daily parade from the Athlone Band Stand across the River Shannon towards Athlone Castle, the town and castle will be a hive of activity with complimentary events and activities for all the family. Through collaboration with the Society for Creative Anachronism and living history merchants and facilitators, visitors will get an opportunity to step back in time and experience a busy medieval fair in action.
Athlone Castle will treat visitors to falconry displays from Animal Magic, music and dance from Galway Early Music, and live displays of medieval weaponry with Michael Moylan of Irish History Live, weaving and spinning with Susanna Anker, historical bow making with Jack Pinson, and a host of other medieval activities provided by the Society for Creative Anachronism and the Athlone Castle team which include; drop in children’s workshops, archaeological digs, face-painting, food tasting, fencing, hobby horses, medieval games, children’s archery, dress-up, and much more besides.
Sue Callaghan, better known in the Society for Creative Anachronism under the alias of The Viscountess Susannah of York, said: “The Society for Creative Anachronism is a worldwide organisation. We don't just study history, we live it. We bring colour and costumes to the fair. Join us for dancing, games, and crafts.” It really promises to be a treat for the senses and Athlone Castle is delighted to host this year's Medieval Fair.
The Medieval Fair will be primarily located in the courtyard and upper battlements of Athlone Castle and will be open on both days from 11am to 5pm. Tickets will be available on the gate and visitors will have access to the fair and the castle visitor centre all day. Admission prices are: Adult single €8, student/senior €6, child €3, family (two adults and two children ) €20, extra child €1.50.
Supporting events have been added to the Medieval Fayre Programme this year including falcon making arts and crafts workshops at Luan Gallery, West Bank Arts, Food and Craft Market, walking tours of Medieval Athlone, exhibitions at Luan Gallery and the Civic Centre, and a talk on the history and origins of Athlone Castle by author, Dr Rory Sherlock.
For full details and advance bookings see www.athlonecastle.ie
