The annual medieval festival, which is always held on the 4th weekend of August, is on the weekend of August 22nd & 23rd in Balingup. Cost into the main oval where all the stalls and attractions are is $15 per person, or $20 for the weekend, children under 12 get in free. Parking is available on the streets throughout the town and some grassed areas closer to the oval have been opened up for closer parking just requiring a gold coin donation.
Some of the musicians
There's an abundance of stalls with all the stall holders dressed in the spirit of medieval garb and costumes. In the centre of the oval is a large dragon, which is to be part of a bonfire later. A program of events is distributed as you enter and outlines times for various acts and festivities.
The dragon ready for burning
Plenty of music, one especially well patronised was a group of 4 musicians, the Jarrah Celtic Band. 1 o'clock on Saturday and Sunday is the Grand Parade and knights, dragons, fairies, vikings and monks and other costumed characters all take part in this colourful parade. There is also the 'Buring of the Dragon' on Saturday night.
Part of the parade
Clydesdale wagon rides and camel rides were on offer and a display of WA reptiles and birds of prey. Roving entertainers kept the crowds amused and costumes could also be hired on site if you wanted to really get into the spirit of the medieval carnival and crusader theme.
Claysdale carriage rides
Displays were ongoing in the combat area and archery practice was available in one of the fields nearby. A happy crowd, over 100 stalls, wine tastings, food vans and displays to discover, along with great entertainment.
More entertainers
The weather was kind on Saturday and Sunday looks set to be a great day out too for those who intend to catch this quirky medieval festival.
