Fun and frivolity Derwent Valley Medieval Festival

IF you’re into everything medieval, from frocks, forging and general frivolity — then look no further than this weekend’s Derwent Valley Medieval Festival.

Derwent Valley Medieval Festival organisers, from left Erin Edge, Debbie Fenton and Maree Rieper. Picture: MATT THOMPSON

IF you’re into everything medieval, from frocks, forging and general frivolity — then look no further than this weekend’s Derwent Valley Medieval Festival.

The event being held at Kensington Park today will see the racing track converted into a pop-up village complete with castle entry gates, banquet hall and a stage for music.

There will be a lords’ tournament, skill at arms war horses, fencing, archery, blacksmiths and pottery, as well as market stalls with local produce and food vans with authentic medieval food.

As part of the Halloween weekend, a church and graveyard will also be set up to host medieval ghost stories.

Organiser Maree Rieper said there would also be plenty of activities for children and encouraged people to get dressed up for the event.

“We would like as many people in costume — we have ladies and knights right through to witches and gypsies because it is Halloween weekend,” she said. “And there should be something to do or see all day.”

As part of the event the Derwent Valley Council has also waived the park hire fee.

The event is running from 10am-5pm and entry is via gold coin donation.

Originally published as Fun and frivolity Derwent Valley Medieval Festival