Our general practices and classes are free to particpate, just show up! Otherwise some official events will have an entry fee, and buying your own supplies or gear can range vastly but is not usually necessary as we have lots of loaner gear and supplies. You can also join the SCA by becoming a paid member!

Nope! You can participate without being a member. However, paid members can receive awards, become officers, or vote in official business polls. They also typically pay discounted fees at events.

Level of membership determines the cost. Click here for current membership information: http://www.sca.org/members/. Members receive a discount at SCA events and the monthly Kingdom (regional) newsletter. Subscriptions to the national quarterly magazines “Tournaments Illuminated” are an additional fee.

For you first time out, just come as you are and we’ll help you get started.

If you would like more specifics for bare minimums ahead of time:

• Fighter Practice – bring your own hard-shelled sports cup (groin protection namely for males).
• Archery Practice – you need close-toed footwear and may want to bring sunblock and other forms of sun protection like a hood or hat.
• Arts and Sciences classes – you will want to look to the class announcement ahead of time for details on any supplies you might need to bring with you.
• Events – for a single-day event you should wear something passably medieval or garb (sometimes available for loan to newcomers, contact the Chatelaine before the event for more information). You should also bring food (unless a meal is provided), water, and the event fee (found in the event announcement post). For weekend camping events, you should additionally bring a tent, sleeping bag, and anything you might need to stay overnight.
• Feasts – you may want to bring feast gear if none are provided. This includes plates, bowls, cutlery, mugs; the more medieval, the better! Note that some feasts may require reservations so be sure to read the event announcement thoroughly for details.

A typical SCA event will include armored combat and rapier, with archery if an area is available. There may be a feast dinner with medieval dancing afterwards. Some alternatives such as arts and sciences, classes, bardic (songs, poetry or stories of the period), games, and children’s activities may be available. When the King and Queen are present, they usually hold a Royal Court to present awards and honors to their subjects.

You don’t, but an effort at clothing that fits within the SCA time period is highly encouraged and does make it more fun! However we don’t usually wear garb for monthly business meetings or work shop gatherings. 

The SCA covers pre-17th century history, mainly the European Middle Ages & Renaissance. The common practice is from about 600AD to mid-1600s (through Elizabeth I). However, there are many participants that choose to venture into ancient times, explore the Middle East, or study interactions between Europe and Asia pre-17th century.

No problem! The SCA has folk that range from those doing extensive historical research to those who just enjoy the atmosphere of life in the Middle Ages. No matter what your level of knowlege or interest in history is, there are always folk who are willing to offer their guidance and share their knowlege, often without being asked!

Absolutely! The SCA is multi-generational, and there are many youngsters involved. There are members that grew up in the SCA and even some second- and third-generation SCAdians around. Children, youth, and teens are encouraged to participate in most activities, including youth combat (for teens and pre-teens) and archery. The marshal activities do require parents or legal guardians to be present.

Yes. Attempts to hide the camera when not in use, and discretion when using a flash are appreciated. There are some expectations of privacy, so please ask before posting or publishing pictures if at all possible.

No, the SCA is not involved in the large for-profit Renaissance Fairs. However, many SCA members participate in these fairs by providing entertainment.

While there are some similarities, LARP groups tend to be associated with fantasy whereas the SCA favors more historical influence. Some folk do enjoy acting out their persona, while most people act as themselves while abiding by common courtly courtesies, especially at events and during Royal Court.

No, our activities are unscripted and more free-form. Each person picks their own persona, which include name, garb, and time. Some events may focus on a specific place and time as a theme, but attendees may select garb or persona from within another SCA period.