Turning up to an event full of historic clothing and activities can feel daunting, but you don’t need your own gear to try it out. No one expects museum-grade costumes, or even a clear idea of what you’re interested in yet. Just aim to keep modern clothing to a minimum, and you’ll quickly get a feel for what works for you.
What happens at an event?
Some events focus on one activity, like archery, fencing, dancing or cooking; the event description will tell you what to expect. Most events offer a full mix: combat, archery and craft classes during the day, followed by a historic-style feast in the evening. Don’t worry too much about the food – the recipes are chosen to suit modern tastes as well as historic ones. After the feast, there’s usually music, games and socialising.
Try a class. If any are advertised, sign up — you’ll learn something new and meet people at the same time.
Lend a hand. Helping in the kitchen, or just fetching and carrying, is always welcome. Everyone here is a volunteer, so an extra pair of hands makes things easier and more fun for everyone. The kitchen is often the liveliest place at the whole event.
Bring a project. If you’re working on something portable — sewing, carving, whatever suits the setting — bring it along. It’s an easy way to strike up conversation with people who share your interests.
Join in. Want to try archery or combat? Go for it. Spare equipment is often available on the day; if you don’t have your own, contact the event’s Marshal-in-charge beforehand so they know to bring extra.
Booking your place
Booking is usually done through an online form, and details vary by event. Some let you pay on arrival, others need payment in advance to secure the site and allow for other pre-event expenses (check the event notice). Your fee usually covers bed, meals, and all activities on offer.
Each event has an Event Steward (organiser) and usually a reservations steward, who handles bookings, beds, cancellations, and passes on anything you flag, from dietary needs to loaner equipment. Ask questions when you book; they’re best placed to help.
Do mention any allergies, medical needs, or dietary preferences (including vegetarian/vegan) so the kitchen can plan for you.
You may also be asked for an SCA name, a kind of alter ego used on public event listings instead of your legal name. It’s not permanent: many people simply use their first name plus their nearest local group (e.g. “Alex of Eplaheimr”) until they settle on something more permanent.
Accommodation at events
In order to reduce costs and make our events as accessible to everyone as possible, a lot of our events take place in scout camps or sports and adventure centres, so usually there will be a combination of bunks in shared dorms, crash space (this is usually floor space in a hall or room so you may need to think about camp-bed or roll-mat and sleeping bags.) Camping might also be available. There may be a distinction between where period tents (that are in the style of tents of the medieval period) and modern (or “mundane”) tents are placed on the site, to try to keep the atmosphere historic. If there are off-site accommodations (hotels, B&B) nearby the event description should mention this.
What to do about food
Weekend events typically include Friday evening “traveller’s fare,” both breakfasts, Saturday lunch, and a feast on Saturday night. You’ll need to bring your own plate, bowl, cutlery and cup, known as “feast gear.” Wood, plain ceramic or pewter look the part, but any of your own crockery works; charity shops are a great source. If you don’t have anything, or feel stuck, ask about loaner feast gear when you book.
All events are bring-your-own-drink. Venues are labelled “wet” (anything goes), “discreetly wet” (keep it low-key, i.e. decant into a plain cup or jug), or “dry” (no alcohol). Bring your own drinks if you want anything besides water, coffee, or tea.
Feasts are eaten by candlelight where possible. The event notice will say whether open flames or only covered ones (lanterns) are allowed — bringing your own light is optional, and the organiser can advise if you’re unsure.
Getting to events
Most events are reasonably accessible by public transport – check the event notice for details. If you’re struggling to get there, email the event steward (organiser); they can often connect you with someone travelling from your area who may have room in their car. Many events may also offer a lift from the nearest airport, train or bus station, sometimes for a small fee, which will be listed on the event notice.
What to do about clothes
You will hear people refer to their historic-style clothing as “garb.” An event may offer loaner garb to borrow for your visit – ask the event steward or newcomer officer when you book. You can also ask in your local group for help, if you’ve already connected with them.
If you want to make your own, the simplest option is a T-tunic: two rectangles for the body and sleeves, sewn into a T-shape with a neck hole, belted at the waist and worn over modern trousers to hide the waistband. Plenty of free how-to guides are available online. Stick to natural fibres – wool, linen, cotton or silk – as much as you’re able, but we’re happy with whatever you’re able to manage.
Shoes are the hardest thing to disguise — plain leather boots or brogues work well. A simple veil head covering or cap also goes a long way toward completing the look.