Solvang Faeriefest
By “Fae”, we refer to the realm of Faerie, where magic happens as mysterious beings inspire and challenge our daily lives. Fairies and other mythical creatures exist in folklore all over the world, and they continue to enrich our lives today.
The idea of Faeriefest in Solvang came up in early 2011 when local artist Clau Orona was shopping at Ross. The Orona family, being merchants in Solvang, had been thinking of ways to encourage more people to visit the Danish Town, but it was not until Clau came across a pair of giant Faerie wings on this fateful day at Ross that she decided that Faeriefest would be the perfect addition to the lineup of festivals that happen in Solvang each year.
Faeriefest ties in perfectly in a town that seems to pop up out of a fairy tale, with its half-timbered roofs and horse-drawn carriages. A faerie festival allows us to immerse ourselves in a world of magic and adventures, and become the mythic characters that we admire. Little girls become flying pixies and princesses; boys become ninjas and ancient warriors, and people of all ages become forest spirits, gypsies, pirates, and more. It is truly-inspiring to see the work put together in some of these costumes. Some people spent a considerable amount of time shopping at second-hand stores, and then modifying the garments. Some others go as far as to making their own chain-mail armor.
We have a wonderful lineup that is certain to captivate audiences of all ages. The Pirates Charles bring us a combination of European Folk music and metal, and talk about epic nautical voyage. Also, to entertain, and educate our attendees on Faerie folklore, we bring the acclaimed Storyteller Blue Thomas, with an arsenal of wit, Tal tales, and traditional Celtic Stories for all ages. On The bill we also have American Tribal Style brought by Blue Moon Dance Haven, Celtic Rock bands Wolf Hollow Revival, and Heather Bale, solo guitarists Kristi Bride and Marc Irving Webber, to name a few. Also featured are local crafters and vendors offering hand-made items, ranging from hand-made soaps and teas, to masks, dance accessories, faerie wings, magic wands, grimmoires, ethnic wear, unique gifts, and costumes that come in just in time for Halloween.
We invite the community to come get inspired, and inspire others on Saturday, October 13, 2012. Tickets are on pre- sale at www.solvangfestival.com Children 12 and under have free admission. There will be prizes for the best costumes, photography opportunity, enchanting performances, games, art installations, giant bubble garden, and more! For more information or tickets, call 805-794-8958.