Lily Debiak | staff writer

Ribbons, swords and fire each seem mild mannered on their own, but put them together, and suddenly you’re face to face with the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival in West Newton. The event, which goes from Aug. 29 to Oct. 4, is the landmark for all things unique and intriguing with their festivities, shows and shops. Everyone who attends is transported back to medieval times with their combination of magic and history. All are welcome to dress up and go back in time, and I recommend you join in.

A couple weeks ago, I took part in the adventures of the fair. Although strolling down the dirt paths and visiting the dozens of vendors are a large part of the event, the shows never cease to amaze me. I don’t shy away from watching the fiery show and medieval rock ’n’ roll.

I will always be amazed by the fire that bursts from people’s fingertips in wisps of orange, blue, purple and green. I can’t help but be attracted to such sights as sword swallowing and hoops of fire, deftly practiced skills performed day after day for people just like me.

It’s not just the shows that keep me coming back, it’s ordinary booths and artisans too. I don’t know a thing about wood working, but seeing the blade used to make such intricate pieces always makes me want to do it myself. I want to create something meaningful.

Sometimes I feel like we are watching, waiting and hoping for our turn to bring awe to others, and that’s why we keep coming back to the Rennassiance Festival.

As a child, I was always drawn to the odd wonders of the world. I remember getting my first yo-yo and trying to learn all the tricks to show off to my family. I never got the hang of it, but it was exciting.

Walking through the festival, I immersed myself in that world of curiosity again. Watching the knights joust was a great place to start.

The competition began before the knights even entered, devotees from both sides attempting to convince the fellow lords and ladies to cheer for one of the two competition.

If you are a horse lover like me, there is no shame in being more interested in the horses who dutifully partake in these adventures — they dress up too.

Of course, one does not need to dress fancily to go to the Renaissance Festival. If you are most comfortable in bike shorts and a tank top, you are totally able to do as you please. If you want to be a princess, a pirate or even a viking, there is no judgement here. From do-it-yourself flower umbrellas to Halloween costumes on Etsy, the festival is filled with all sorts of different medieval travelers.

But when picking your attire keep in mind, it is HOT. Great for that tan every girl has been dying for, but not good for pale people like me who turn into lobsters. Sunscreen is a necessity, not a commodity.

I had picked a bench that was perfectly in the shade. A little sunny, but mostly covered by branches high above. Within a matter of minutes, the sun had moved just a couple feet, leaving me in a place to cook like a pot roast instead of my beautiful, shady spot I had purposely sought out moments before.

Despite the heat and layered clothing, the festival is a place for the odd, the unusual and even the normal to enjoy.

I want to see the fire, the swordplay and hear the bad jokes.

You might get a little burnt, but you can also get ocarinas (clay flutes), flower crowns and bird whistles that drive everyone insane.

There is something for everyone. The people who love swords, the ones who want out of the house and anyone who loves horses, including me.

Lily Debiak can be reached at debiakl@duq.edu