If you've ever wondered what is was like living during the Renaissance period, hopefully, you had a chance to attend the 2019 Maryland Renaissance Festival.
The festivities began on Aug. 24 and went until Oct. 20. It was open rain or shine, and unfortunately, on the day I attended, it sure was a rainy one.
However, even though I was soaked from the time I arrived to the time I left, I still couldn't help but smile nearly the whole time from the energy radiating throughout the festival.
There were so many people dressed up in Renaissance clothing, and I truly felt like I entered a time machine and was teleported back into the era of jousting and Leonardo da Vinci.
If you had a chance to go to the Renaissance Festival, you were well aware of the abundance of activities that were offered. There were games, shops and my favorite part ... the food!
Naturally, the first thing I did when I arrived at the festival was go buy a chicken gyro at one of the stands. I'm not exaggerating when I say it was the best gyro I've ever had.
Of course, eating wasn't the only thing I did while I attended the festival. I played a lot of games including darts, archery, the maze, Jacob's Ladder and many more!
The maze was by far my favorite game, even though it took me a staggering 15 minutes to escape. At one point, I was afraid I would never find my way out, but thankfully, someone came to my rescue and helped guide me to the exit.
Maddie Roberts, a senior at Salisbury University, shared her favorite part of the festival.
"I would have to say that my favorite part of the festival were the bars that were scattered all over the grounds. I bought a beer, and it came in a super cool mug that I was able to keep!"
There was even a shop specifically selling crystals and rocks, which is where I bought a geode. A geode is a rock that when cracked open reveals sparkling crystals. The following is a picture of my geode that revealed calcite on the inside.
Geodes are said to help people communicate with "divine beings" and cleanse the air to create better moods and energies that can be used with meditation, to relieve stress and help with decision-making (which I'll definitely need during finals week.)
Overall, the Renaissance Festival was a super fun experience that will make you feel as if you went back in time. Whether you go to the food stands, bars, games, or the jousting arena, you will truly believe you are back in the 14th century.
By MELANIE RAIBLE
Editorial editor
Featured photos from Marylandrenaissancefestival.com and Melanie Raible.