Saturday, November 16, 2013

MEDIEVAL FEASTING


The Medieval Feast was held on the Saturday night at York. Although the fair had been held for a number of years, this was only the second year that they had held the feast. One of the re-enactment groups provided security and continual entertainment throughout the night, and an Irish band provided the music. At the entrance two men-at-arms barred the way until tickets were checked. Mock arguments and fights broke out amongst the re-enactors and this kept the waiting queue entertained. Medieval maidens escorted you to your seats and there were medieval entrees and mead to whet your appetite.

The layout, table decorations and food were brilliant. The organisers did a fantastic job.

At the feast I started to take some photographs. One of these was of a court jester. It turned out he was one of the organisers. One thing led to another and somehow I became the official photographer for the night, so groups were coming to me to pose for the photos. The majority of guest were wearing some sort of medieval clothing. In fact because I wasn't in medieval garb (mine was back in NSW) it was suggested I try a large mouthful of the special cheese. It turned out to be butter.... a trick because I wasn't dressed appropriately.

The entertainment continued without a break all night. At times there were mock fights, an attempted assassination, music, juggling and a remarkable display of juggling with fire. The 180 guests had a wonderful time and this feast is worth travelling to Western Australia for next year.