How to Join a Medieval Reenactment Group
If you feel more at home wielding a sword or bow than you do wielding a cell phone, you may be in need of some medieval reenacting. Joining a medieval reenactment group will put you in touch with like-minded people and let you learn crafts like sword fighting, making period clothing and preparing period meals.
Instructions
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Look on the Internet for large groups. The SCA is the largest medieval reenactment group in the US. Its website has a lot of good information and links to local chapters. Other groups worth looking into are the Vikings-NA and the Adrian Empire.
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Check with local craftspeople. Craftsmen like weavers and blacksmiths have a lot of knowledge about groups of this kind.
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Visit a gathering. Most medieval reenactment groups encourage visitors, so once you find a local chapter, get in contact and find out when you can visit. Check out the costumes, the rules and the political structure. This will give you an idea if this is the right kind of group for you.
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Talk to other members and find out how active the group is and what kind of activities they focus on. If they focus more on handicrafts and you want to focus on hand-to-hand combat, it won't be a very good fit.
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Buy or borrow some gear and get into the act. Once you've found a local chapter that fits your interests, it's time to get into the act.
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Tips & Warnings
Most medieval reenactment groups encourage families to attend together. They offer kids activities and other programs to catch the interest of the little ones.
Check out the dues and membership fees. These can definitely add up and should be taken into account before signing up.
Medieval reenactment groups focus on recreating history. If you're looking for fantasy, you'll need to find a live action role playing group.