Once you set the perfect (and authentic mood) with costumes, decorations, food, music, and entertainment, your guests will enjoy your Medieval or Renaissance party whether or not they dress up themselves.
Even if you are not too well-versed in Medieval or Renaissance History, a quick research trip at your local library, bookstore, or online can give you a sampling of various concepts you might want to use.
Here are a few ideas for throwing a Medieval or Renaissance party to start from:
1. If you are loaded on ideas but low on cash for decorations, there are many items available that can be used as accents in your house for just a little bit over $10.00. These include a Pewter Holy Trinity Wall Cross, Celtic Geometric Wine Glass (that can be used as candle holders), and if you can afford upwards of $40.00, decorative Dragon Wine Bottle Holders will make a truly memorable place (or places) to serve your fine wines from.
2. You can also show Medieval or Renaissance movies on your screens to get your guests in the mood. Some popular titles include “The Lion in Winter,” “Robin Hood,” “El Cid,” and “Excalibur,” among many others.
3. For entertainment, you can stage a mock sword fight using stage combat swords. However, it might be a better idea to hire professionals.
4. Since Medieval food was largely based on class, you can serve some popular peasant yummies such as dark heavy bread like rye, peas and beans (sometimes their only source of protein), and ales. For the upper class, you can serve, roasted chicken, lamb, and even fish accompanied by wheat bread, butter, and cheese.
5. As for gifts for your guests to take home, these can include small bottles of wine, miniature swords, theme keychains, and period flowers in small bunches, which were always popular in Medieval courts.
Whether or not you have a large royal budget or a peasant’s, throwing a Medieval or Renaissance party will be enjoyable and memorable when you put some careful research and thought into it.