Medieval Party Play

One of the things I love about my children's childhood is how much time they have for creative and imaginative play.

warrior princess in battle

warrior boy swings foam sword

Since they also have a keen interest in the middle ages (inspired I think a lot by the fantastical Lord of The Rings Trilogy) we have read plenty of fiction and non-fiction about this time period. Of course, all this study inspires play; costume, castle and weapon making are regular activities in our home.

warrior maiden prepares for battle

So imagine our delight when fellow medieval enthusiasts and close friends of ours had a (costumes encouraged) Medieval Birthday Celebration in honor of their son's 12th birthday this weekend. All last week the kids were jittery with the excitement of sword making with Daddy, costume planning and role playing.

medieval warrior maiden

warrior princess downed

homemade warrior helmet.

The main party activity was a hour long foam-sword melee involving children ages two through early teens. Also popular was the tug-o-war in which, I must say, the warrior maidens & princesses (pretty dresses are just their disguise) pulled their own and more. Go girls!

medieval party melee

It was so much fun (and a bit nerve wracking at times) to watch. I did some tug-o-war rope pulling myself but was laughing too hard to be much help. My children came home thoroughly exhausted, their very muscles aching from all the intensely active play.

medieval play shield

What a perfect party. Thanks so much to our friends for inviting us to participate.

boy with sparkler

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  • Natalia

    Natalia on Sept. 26, 2010, 6:12 p.m.

    Oh my, my knights and middle-ages obsessed six year old would have been in seventh heaven at that party! It looks amazing, but I don't think I will show him the photos - he might start demanding a party of his own tomorrow!

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  • Rebecca

    Rebecca on Sept. 26, 2010, 6:37 p.m.

    That party looks like a blast!

    Have you ever thought about going to an SCA event or two? Everyone gets dressed up in period garb and does period activities (archery, swordplay, crafts, etc.). Our local one is pretty fun. I've heard that Ren Fairs are also really fun but less realistic (unfortunately, we don't have any local ones).

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  • Spring

    Spring on Sept. 27, 2010, 1:49 a.m.

    Oh wow, you totally captured the spirit of our party, Renee! "Melee" was exactly the word I used to describe it afterward! LOL! Such great shots, as usual!

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