From turkey legs to jousting, Ye Merrie Greenwood Faire promises treats and thrills

Before Marjorie Kunigisky set foot inside her first renaissance faire, she spotted him.

The man was playing a pipe and tabor outside the gate, entertaining people filing into the event and pulling some lucky souls up to dance.

But he passed by Kunigisky — who was in street clothes, a newbie to the faire scene — without taking her for a twirl.

She was disappointed. “I thought, ‘I want to play, too,’ ” she said.

She soon got her chance. Kunigisky became heavily involved in the renaissance faire world — and when she moved to the Tri-Cities, she brought its whimsy and mirth along with her.

She’s production director of the annual Ye Merry Greenwood Faire, which is in its 31st year.

This year’s event is Sept. 23-24 at Columbia Park in Kennewick.

It’ll include plenty of favorite treats and attractions, from turkey legs to jousting.

And it’ll boast myriad vendors, with more than 60 expected to set up shop at the park.

Gates open at 9:30 a.m. each day. Single day admission is $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and children ages 5-12. Two-day tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for seniors and kids.

A two-day family pass, good for two adults and two children, is $45. Kids age 4 and younger are admitted for free.

Kunigisky said Ye Merry Greenwood Faire has something for everyone, from little ones to adults.

Along with the popular Jousting Alliance, about three dozen acts are scheduled — from comedy, singing and dance troupes to puppeteer Clay Martin and Adria, the Blind Knife Juggler.

This year’s event also will have ATMs, an added convenience as the Faire only accepts cash and checks.

For more information and the full Faire schedule, go to yemerriegreenwoodfaire.org.

This story was originally published September 14, 2017 at 4:10 PM with the headline "From turkey legs to jousting, Ye Merrie Greenwood Faire promises treats and thrills."