~Welcome to Ravensworlde ~
An unofficial adventure to the Arizona Renaissance Festival

The 2007 Arizona Renaissance Festival is nearly over, and it concludes on Sunday, April 1st. As with any previous Festival, this year was unique; taking on the character of the times.

For those not familiar with the Arizona Renaissance Festival; it is located at Apache Jct. This is about 45 minutes East of Phoenix, on Highway 60. From, Tucson: take Highway 79 to Florence, continue North to Highway 60. Then, proceed west for about 10 minutes. On a good day, the drive is about 1:20.

In May of 2006, many Rennies stressed over rising gas cost, as the pump price exceeded $3.00/gal. Will there be a Festival at $4.00/gal.? Or, higher? Fortunately, retail prices fell; and actual cost approximated $2.00/gal. February began on the backside of $2.50/gal., and contributed to strong attendance. However, as the pump cost increased (about $0.40/gal), attendance remained robust. One possible explanation for this fact; people believe that fuel cost will continue to rise, and anything figure under $3.00/gal is a bargain. In other words; take advantage of the moment, because tomorrow is likely to be worse.

Food prices were predictably higher this year. A typical entree was $5.75.

The Greek kitchen (my choice for best of Festival 3 years ago); sold a platter @ $9.50. The pita served was stale. The 3 falafel balls were rock hard on the outside. And, the single dolmas approximated the thickness of a thumb, and about half the length. Without reservation, the Greek kitchen is a disappointing worst of festival.

Best of Festival for a 2nd year, is the Monk's Bakery. The food is fresh and tasty. The variety is excellent; ranging from bread, pastries and stuff croissants. My favorite croissantis is spinach - feta; although the ham and cheese is quite good. In strong 2nd place are the crepes. The menu can accommodate any taste, and the food is made to order. Third place is a write in candidate; the Fysch and Chips is worth considering.

A special thanks to my friend Owain Phyfe. His performance and persona exemplifies the best of traditional bards. A must see at the Shire. See www.owainphyfe.com for more information.

Images will be updated, along with new content on Ravensworlde beginning now, and continuing over several months. I have nearly a gig of images to parse though.

On a side note:

Also, to my long acquaintances in Scandinavia; Norse Gear and Bifrost Tales are ready ~ see www.ravensworlde.com. Thanks for the many contributions and suggestions.

Yours,

~ Raven