SCA Events 101

Contacting the Chatelaine and Gold Key or a more expericnced SCA friend before your first event can help ensure you've got what you need to be comfortable. They'll know if it's good to bring extra sunscreen, bug repellent, dancing shoes, etc. The basics you'll need are: garb (medieval clothes - read my blog on costuming for your first events), feast gear (plates, flatware, bowls, goblets or cups), basic camping gear (if you'll be camping). Plus, if you need loaner garb, it will give the Gold Key time to find what you need and bring it to the event for you.

Make sure you get directions to the site, and know if there will be site fees or not. As of this post, site fees are not required for minors, but are for adults. There is a non-member surcharge, which may vary, and some classes or extra activities may require their own fees. Usually, these are posted well in advance, but in case you miss the posting, it won't hurt to ask.

If you get into a bind, or if you need help setting up, politely ask the Chatelaine, person at gate, or nearest gentle neighbor for help. If we can, we will. Courtesy demands, and courtesy is a key part of the SCA experience. SCA is about people, not just historic re-enactment, research & fighting.

At major events, let people know you are new to the event and ask people what's happening there and how you can join in. It helps to come to the monthly baronial meetings. Listen and learn. Want to make friends and learn more? VOLUNTEER, VOLUNTEER, VOLUNTEER.

Other ways to know what's going on: Go to some meetings. Between events, there are many different types of groups that meet: rapier, cut and thrust, heavy fighting, arts & sciences, scribes, armoring, thrown weapons, heraldry, bardic, dancing, costuming, metalwork - chances are someone is doing it, or knows someone who knows how to do it. Become an apprentice (formal or informal). Or just do research on your own. SCA players are as involved, or not involved, as their individual calendars, circumstances and personalities permit.

Join social media groups on Yahoo, Facebook and elsewhere. (They are short-listed on my home page - I truly do not know them all - but if I post the question, I know some gentlefolk will be able to direct me to agroup doing 'Japanese period papermaking' or 'Herbal Tinctures', and when and where they meet.)

Gold Key goes to most every major event. Look for a flag or sign with a Gold Key on it. The Gold Key is a person who takes care of and loans out extra garb. It's a good place to start if you have no garb, if your garb gets wet, or if you forgot to bring something warm. NOTE: NO SHOES OR BOOTS ARE AVAILABLE FROM GOLD KEY.