Last Saturday and Sunday were big days for the Ames Renaissance Faire. Lots of Iowa State students and families from all over the area came to watch the many attractions at the event. Parking spots were scarce and a line gathered at the ticket booth.

Just inside the entrance and to the left was a line of food trucks with a variety of different cuisines. If hungry, food was never very far.

To the right, there was a line of shops selling medieval clothing, jewelry, games and much more.

Some of the entertainment included sword fighting lessons, live music and a group that performed various magic tricks.

Small business owner Anthony McGregor talked a little bit about his experience with the Renaissance Faire.

“My wife started this store with the intent of trying to be an entry-level store for people coming to the Renaissance Faire, so we try to keep our prices pretty low and make sure that everyone can get to it,” McGregor said.

McGregor and his wife own Wasted Madness, a store that sells lots of medieval-style clothing and other small trinkets like tarot cards and stones.

Another couple who tended a store that sold different scented soaps discussed their feelings surrounding the Faire.

“This is our first year here, so we were pretty excited to join,” Natalie Oppedal said. “I think our favorite parts are probably the costumes… and beyond that, just how friendly everybody is.”

Natalie and Douglas Oppedal said they were very interested in seeing another Renaissance Faire again next year.

Aside from all of the families and shops, there were also many Iowa State students enjoying the Faire. 

“My favorite part of the Renaissance Faire is dressing up and seeing my friends dressed up,” Vinny Fox, a sophomore in art and design, said.

The event seemed fun for not only the adults to enjoy but for the children and college students in attendance as well.