Since I go to a lot of Pagan festivals, this is a question that I get asked. Especially by Pagans thinking about going to their first one. Or by non-Pagans wondering why I camp when there’s dirt and bugs and air mattresses and aren’t hotels nicer?
Anyway, via Jason, here’s a fabulous account of Lothlorien Elf Fest. I’ve never attended this particular festival, and each has its own personality, but in terms of what it feels like to be there, this is a perfectly typical, indeed quintessential, description.
Part of my time is spent cruisin’ the strip.
There’s a gravel road that makes a circle through the campground area. I walk this strip, round and round. The merchants are set up on either side of it so I get to see who’s selling what. I get to say hello to the merchants who come back year after year, and see what new things they have and what kind of barter they’re willing to participate in. It’s a lovely walk, too. This also gives me a feel for what the mood of the festival is like. I can kill HOURS doing this, because I nearly always wind up in some deep discussions along the way.
I skimmed more than read, (and didn’t even read your paragraph, which is funny, because the same part jumped out at me as dead on. ‘cruise the ship’ is just perfect.)
I have so much I need to handle, but am trying to get myself to Fires Rising. DEFINITELY looks good for Free Spirit. Need me a festival. Really really need.
There was another paragraph about sneaking through the woods looking for friendly campfires. The woman really conveys the feel of the thing.
hee hee.
I finally posted. I’m outta here.
If I don’t talk to you…
We attended ELF annually for several years; and while I do have some fond memories of the place and the festival, we eventually stopped going–primarily out of weather concerns, but also because we were feeling a disconnect between ourselves and the types of people that were starting to take over. If you’ve never been to southern Indiana in late May, just know that It. Rains. A. Lot. Then there are the tornadoes. (Two years ago on Memorial Day weekend one of said tornadoes knocked a 70-foot oak onto my house. Bad time for festivalizing.) Now taijiya-san and her coveners stay home that weekend where we can run and hide from scary weather. 🙂
I don’t like to go to Beltane festivals for the same reason. Beltane on the East Coast. Hello?