ST. JOSEPH, Mich. — Gather thy Hounds, tack up thy steed and head to the Medieval Faire during Animal Aid’s most ambitious Mutt March to date.

On Saturday, Aug. 22, Lake Bluff Park in St. Joseph (south of the Farmers’ Market) will be transformed into the mythical Kingdom of DunRoamin. People and their dogs are invited to this unique fundraising event.

As a well-recognized, all-volunteer, non-profit animal rescue group in Berrien County, Animal Aid’s mission of more than 36 years has been assisting homeless, abandoned dogs and cats in the southwest Michigan region.

What awaits thy animal-lovers?

A day in the Marketplace in the Kingdom of DunRoamin begins as guests pass beneath the archway into a land of hope and see Sir Barks-A-Lot, a plush canine suited in armor. DunRoamin is where unwanted dogs can find their forever homes and where villagers will be entertained in a mystical medieval atmosphere.

Visitors can sign The Royal Edict by Decree of the King and Queen of DunRoamin so they are known throughout thy kingdom as a supporter of kindly treatment and spay/neuter of hounds and beasties. Organizers remind all visitors to be sure they pick up a commemorative scroll.

Walkers will register thy hounds and receive a “Wag” Bag as they embark on their journey to meet King James and Queen Tiffany of the Kingdom.

In the merry Marketplace, visitors will find representatives of veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, groomers, pet rescue groups and other persons of interest to dog owners. They can sample and purchase wares at Nottingham Nibbles (doggie treats) and The Queen’s Tea Shoppe (baked goods befitting the Crown).

Anyone can also feed the dragon at Dragonwycke (dragon food provided) and visit Woof-ingham to claim their very own Balloon Animal of the Forest.

Leaders urge everyone to stop by The Royal Hatter to decorate thy own crown or head dress, select an egg at The Golden Goose to see what hatches in thy hand, and watch the costume-clad beasties walk their masters through the Marketplace. Walkers are encouraged to dress in costume, (remember some medieval headwear is available to make and purchase at The Royal Hatter).

Guests can participate in games of skill and chance in the Royal Gaming Stall and take a Selfie on the Drawbridge of the eight-foot tall castle — and they shouldn’t forget to toss a coin to make a wish at the Wishing Moat while thy prepareth to Kiss A Frog!

Lady Caroline’s Photo Booth will offer portraits fit for the royals, and Zoltar, The Magnificent will perform feats of magic.

Additionally, visitors can meet foster dogs available for adoption at Angels of the Shire.

No Faire is complete without contests! Partaketh in Little Digger of the Longest Tooth (oldest dog), Diminutive, the Brave (smallest dog in costume), Merlin’s Majik (best canine trick), House of the Many Barks (best costumed multi-dog household), Best Human-Beastie Medieval Costume (most creative canine- person costumer), and Canine/Noble Who Hath Travelled from the Most Afar.

Young maidens and squires may enter the coloring contest at The Feather and Quill. All artists will receive a bracelet fashioned by Queen Tiffany while supplies last. Those previously completing their artwork from entry forms in the community should submit them at Ye Old Registry.

Those interested are encouraged to check their veterinary office, St. Joseph Today, most local libraries and the website for entry forms. Categories are: 6 years and under, 7-8 years, 9-10 years and 11-12 years. Entry form must accompany each piece and all entries must be received before 1 p.m. on event day. A donation of $1 is requested per entry.

Costume and coloring contests will be judged by the King and Queen at the Clock Tower commencing at 1:30 p.m. The winner must be present to win and will be mentioned in the Animal Aid newsletter, Happy Tails, on website and/or facebook.

Canine festivities begin at 11 a.m. and close at 2 p.m. along the south half of the bluff (south of the stairs). Contrary to previous notification, there is no rain date due to the extensive setup this year. The public is invited to use a pledge form, available onsite and on the website or simply make a donation in addition to the $10 entry fee (includes Wag Bag). Military and veterans walk free! Unable to attend? Donations are welcome online (www.animalaidswmi.com.) or at P.O. Box 407, St. Joseph, MI 49085.

 

Animal Aid is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal organization. See our pets at www.animalaidswmi.com and on Facebook/Animal Aid of Southwestern Michigan. Phone 269-934-SPAY. Foster parents and volunteers are always needed! Join us in helping the animals.