Frozen Festival

As we planned our trip to the Renaissance Festival this year, we tried to schedule a time when Michelle could join us. This weekend was the only time we could do that. Our friend Justine was also able to come, so we had a larger group than usual.

Marina and I decided to dress in our Frozen costumes. She wore the Anna coronation dress and I was Elsa. Justine borrowed a Cinderella costume, but Michelle did not want to dress up, she did wear a tiara all day though.

We didn’t leave as early as we had planned and traffic was crazy getting to the festival. But when we finally made it we were all glad to be there. As we entered, Marina and I were serenaded by “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” We both laughed.

Once inside, the girls all took a run through the maze. We were surprised to see the first joust was taking place. We thought we had missed it. So Marina, Justine and I found seats to watch while Michelle had her hair braided.

After the joust, we wandered the festival and did some shopping. As always, Marina wanted her photo by the wishing well. We also came across Prince Charming. He hasn’t done his act at the festival for a few years now, but Marina was pleased to see him.

We sat down to watch the Endangered Cats show. Marina loved the black panther, who she thought looked like Jasmine. We also enjoyed the antics of the white tiger.

Marina wanted to get her face painted, so we found our favorite artist. Marina chose a star design in red and purple. She was clearly happy with the result. While we were waiting, the royal procession came by. Marina curtseyed and waved to the royals. Princess Elizabeth’s face clearly lit up when she recognized Marina. She waved to both of us.

For lunch, we had our usual turkey leg and were very happy to find a shady place to sit. I was impressed at how much turkey Marina ate. Michelle and Justine wanted to do more shopping, so they went out while Marina and I went to the second round of jousting. Of course, Marina happily cheered Sir William on.

Marina and Justine wanted to ride the elephant, so we all met there. After they got onto the elephant with another couple, the trainers decided to cool off the elephant by spraying him with water. They enjoyed the extra time as well as a cooling mist on their legs.

We all went over to the chapel for the daily knightings. After the ceremony, Marina and I went to meet Princess Elizabeth for her tea party. Once the rug was set for the girls to sit on, Marina took a spot right by the princess. The girls had fun talking about their adventures. Then Elizabeth told a silly story using the members of her court as actors. We spent a few minutes talking with Princess Elizabeth after the party and promised to see her next year.

Marina and I picked up a snack and went back to the arena for the final joust. We met the court poet who said he was looking for us all day. He then serenaded us with “For the First Time in Forever.” Marina was pleased and embarrassed.

Michelle and Justine saved us a spot right in front. As we were settling in, we learned we could get a favor for Sir William’s lance, then get it back from him after the joust. Marina’s face lit up and I knew we had to get one. Michelle and Justine each got one as well.

After the formalities of the joust were complete, the girls stepped forward to give Sir William their favors. Then the joust began. Justine was particularly excited with the action. In the end, Sir William and Sir Balin defeated Sir Joseph and Sir Arthur. When  the ceremony concluded, Sir William came back to the arena to return the favors to the ladies who presented them. He thanked them all and since he won the joust requested they all come to all of his jousts.

Before he could start, Marina gave him a collection of photographs we put together for him of our many meetings. He was very pleased. He gave Marina a big hug before returning her favor. He gallantly kissed the hand of each lady as he gave her the favor. By this time, Michelle and Justine were his fans as well.

We headed for the gate in time for King Henry’s closing remarks. The rest of the cast sang and danced but we only watched for a short time. By then we were all very tired and ready to head back to the present.