Hey, Geeky Friends! I have some exciting news! A fantastic, local, non-profit organization, called Always a Future for Kids (AFK), officially announced their very own Renaissance Faire will take place in West Plains, Missouri!
AFK is a 501(c)3 organization that provides resources for kids who have been through difficult times. AFK has organized several family-friendly events in the Ozarks over the last few years, but the most popular annual event they run is OzCon. OzCon brings camaraderie and philanthropy together in a way that benefits the community, but especially children in our community.
Now that OzCon, a Geeky-Nerdy mecca held every Spring, has blossomed, it was time to nurture a counterpart in the Autumn: OzFaire. Mid-October will see the faire’s inauguration at a location traditionally used to host the area’s bluegrass gatherings. For more up-to-date notifications, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Follow AFK’s Facebook page and OzFaire’s Facebook page. Keep reading this article to discover a bit more about this event.
When?
Saturday, Oct. 12 and Sunday, Oct. 13, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where?
Located in south-central Missouri, the faire will be located at the Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Association (HOBA) Park, at 1138 Bluegrass Lane, PO Box 541, West Plains, MO, 65775.
Some questions you might be wondering:
I sat down with AFK member, CJ Collins, who is of no relation (lol!), and had a few questions for him. I have attended a small-town Ren Faire before, but it’s been several years, and I know each event is unique. I wondered what to expect at this event, since I’ll be bringing my family along, and I also had a few questions that inquiring minds might want to know!
Q. How much is admission?
A. Adults: $10, Kids 8 – 12: $5, Children younger than 8-years-old are free.
Q. Since this is an outdoor event, what if it rains?
A. We will be there, rain or shine! Hopefully, there won’t be any storms, but we do have a canopy tent if anyone needs to stay out of the rain.
Q. What is the parking like?
A. It’s mostly flat, ground terrain, but we do have handicap accessible parking available. We also have designated overflow parking at a nearby parking lot, and we will have a golf cart to transport people closer to the venue.
Q. Will there be seating available, and can people bring their own chairs?
A. Absolutely to both! There will be covered hay bales, but attendees are welcome to bring folding chairs or camp chairs if they’d like.
Q. What will the bathroom situation be like?
A. Since it’s located at a park, we will have access to campground-like bathrooms. Folks will want to plan accordingly.
Q. Can I bring my dog?
A. Per park regulations, pets are not allowed (Registered Service Animals are allowed).
Q. So, I’ve seen pictures of people dressing up in costumes online. Do people have to dress up, or can they attend the event in street clothes?
A. Not at all! People are welcome to wear whatever they’re comfortable with, as long as it’s family friendly.
Q. What is this year’s theme?
A. Our theme is fantasy, so you might see people dressed as fairies, princesses, pirates… that sort of thing.
Q. What kind of food will be available?
A. We have secured some food vendors including Hunger Hive which will have their amazing frozen treats such as Italian Ice and iced coffee. We will also have Ree Creations located at the Yellow House who will be serving items like Turkey Legs and Pickles on a Stick.
Q. This one is a little different: With this being AFK’s first Ren Faire, what is your current biggest need?
A. We could use more artisans and demonstrators. People who would like to showcase a talent that would work well at a renaissance faire.
Q. What advice would you give a first-time ren-goer?
A. Immerse yourself and have fun! Go there to be entertained, even if you aren’t a people-person. There’ll be a lot to enjoy, even for introverts! There’s going to be music, good food, a kids’ area with games and a storyteller, lots of great vendors, and demonstrators.
And of course we can’t forget The Iron Alliance! They will be performing armored combat and fighting demonstrations. It’s going to be a great event!
I couldn’t agree more! I know I’m looking forward to attending OzFaire and snagging a special OzFaire mug! Be sure to purchase your tickets at www.ozfaire.com and remember: AFK will make sure your money is put to good use for our local community!
