NILES —  Sword fights, lessons about training dragons and plenty of food and music are only a few of the things residents will be able to take part in during the inaugural Niles Renaissance Fair.

The fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 19 and 20, at Riverfront Park. The event is coordinated by the city’s Community Development department. Admission costs are $5 for people 13 and up; $2 for children 5 to 12 and free for those 5 and under.

Christina H. Arseneau, the director of the Niles History Center, which is a branch of the Community Development Department, said she wanted to bring a family-friendly summer event to Niles.

“We just decided we wanted another big festival in Niles,” Arseneau said.

Throughout the two-day event, people will be able to see six different performers, including story tellers, knife and torch jugglers, magicians and combat shows. A variety of live music will also be available and feature Celtic and Irish bands. A number of shopping vendors will be available and sell items like ceramics, clothing, costumes, jewelry and more.

Arseneau also saw the event as a way to promote the downtown. She said those who visit the Renaissance Fair will be allowed re-entry so that they have a chance to browse the downtown.

Both Front Street Pizza Pub and the Brass Eye will offer beer and Renaissance themed alcoholic beverages for adults to choose from.

Arseneau said she wanted the Niles Renaissance Fair to combine Medieval history, as well as fantasy elements like dragons and fairies. 

“I always feel like Renaissance fairs are really interesting because [there is] music and dance and dressing up and royalty, but there is also the war fare, sword fighting and battles that kind of thing,” Arseneau said. “I think this is something I could take my son and daughter to and they will both love it.”

To capture the historical elements, there will be an encampments where people can learn about what life was like around the Medieval time periods. Those who visit the encampment can get an interactive picture of what people in Medieval times ate, wore and how they lived. Those who attend are encouraged to dress up and get into character at the festival, whether they are choosing to embrace the fantasy side of the Renaissance Fair or the historical side.

Arseneau said she hopes that people who attend get a chance to enjoy a day in downtown Niles with their family and friends.

“It is for people who like learning about history and it is for people who enjoy entertainment, so if you like theater and live music, I think will enjoy that,” Arseneau said. “It is a great way to promote Niles.”

Arseneau credited Sanya Vitale, the Community Development director, for helping her to plan the Renaissance Fair over the past year. Arseneau said she hopes to make the Renaissance Fair a Niles tradition. 

“It’s just a cool way to step into the past,” Arseneau said. “I do think there is something for everybody, whether you like fairies and princesses or weapons and sword fighting or you enjoy live music and theater. It’s just a fun way to spend a day in Niles.”

Volunteers are being sought to assist at the Renaissance Fair. A training will be required. Those interested can contact the Niles History Center at (269) 845-4054 ext. 4010.

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