The sounds of trumpets and clashing metal will return to Gustine Feb. 15-16 and Feb. 22-23 as the Heartland Renaissance Festival in nearby Gustine will have a shorter but grander second season.
“Last time, we had four weekends,” said Buster Ochoa. “We’re essentially shifting from another shopping venue with some shows to making it actually about the historical tournaments.”
This is thanks in large part to Heartlands’ partnerships for the weekend events. Texas Armored Combat is organizing the grand tourney where contestants will compete with various Medieval weapons and styles, from swords and axes to polearms and shields.
The Joust competition will be hosted by a’Plaisance LTD, offering a chance for faire-goers a chance to cheer for their favorite mounted knight as they compete for prizes.
Brownwood-based Heart of Texas Nature Center and founder Lindley Wellmon will also return with a feathered friend to educate about the art of falconry.
Ochoa said the first weekend will feature a bigger jousting competition and courtly dancing in the schedule while the second weekend will have a bigger turnout for The Grand Tourney and bellydancers.
Each night will also include a feast from 6-7 p.m. with guest able to eat with costumed staff and contestants. The faire will also have a bigger bar and more food vendors to satisfy a variety of cravings.
Ochoa said the main shows will be held at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. each day with smaller acts in between. (The full schedule will be on site and on the Heartlands webpage as it is set.)
Some of the new entertainers/ educators include Arcane Inferno who will perform fire shows after dark and an exhibitor of Medieval firearms.
Ochoa said the shorter window ensured that Heartlands doesn’t overlap with other Renaissance festivals, allowing more vendors/exhibitors and fuller daily schedules.
He’s excited that event is becoming more of what he envisioned and is excited for emphasis on education about Medieval lifestyle as well as entertainment.
“If you’ve never gotten to experience anything Renaissance, I’d encourage you to come see what it was like back then,” he said. “You’ll see what people wore, ate, and carried. It might be a one-time thing. You might be like me and get hooked immediately.”
Tickets to Heartlands are $10 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under. Adult weekend passes are $15. Camping is also available on-site.
For more information, visit heartlandsrenaissancefestival. com.