First Time at Pennsic! The 10,000 Person City of Tents

[@snusmumricken]

I was born into the SCA and the reaction nowadays when I tell people about it is so wildly different to how it was when I was growing up. The SCA was a secret I could never tell anyone about or I would get relentlessly teased and bullied about this weird dressup thing my family did. Now when I hear kids excitedly talking about how cool their friends think it is I want to cry with relief that its so different now. The SCA is quite literally my life and I am so happy how much more people are interested in it all!

[@kimadkins5385]

The knight who broke his thumb is my husband! He just saw this video and wants me to let y'all know that it wasn't broken, just about a half in dislocated. (He's the knight with white crescent on black over 3 black wolves on white on his surcoat) He's really happy y'all came out to the Combat of the Thirty and covered it amazingly!

[@SkillTree]

Oh man! So glad to hear his thumb is OK! It was an EPIC battle to behold. Thank you for watching. I am happy to hear you liked it😁

[@kimadkins5385]

@@SkillTree I've been going for some years now, you guys picked the BEST of the fights to watch! I'm not overly worried about the thumb, past injuries lead to easy dislocation of too many of his joints. He likes to freak people out when he pops them back in. ;)

[@SeattleJeffin]

When you were talking about them adapting kit for the climate that they live in, we had a term for that when I was in the SCA. "We are the Society for Creative Anachronism, not the society for compulsive accuracy."

[@rogueally7993]

Oh, I like that! Although I definitely adapted by going from late Anglo-Saxon with two or three layers to early A-S with bog dresses and stuff, and I totally committed to the early time frame.

[@3fgburner]

This was my 40th Pennsic, been going since 1981. I also made it to Armistice last year, when Pennsic was canceled for the second time. One of my great moments this year: I taught two classes on War Wednesday, from 9 to 10AM and from 11AM to 1PM. They were in the same class tent, so I just figured I'd take whichever class was between the two I taught. The in-between class was "How to tie a Turban in the Muslim Style", by Duke Cariadoc - the guy who STARTED PENNSIC 50 years ago.

[@SkillTree]

I need to try more classes! Perhaps I will be in one of yours next year!

[@elizabethcreith5495]

Duke Cariadoc is still going strong? Bless his heart!

[@palebloom6118]

@@elizabethcreith5495 Yes, I saw him throughout the war this year!

[@merindahthornton5080]

Wow! I'd love to meet him someday... but I'm in Lochac. :)

[@palebloom6118]

@@merindahthornton5080 Lochac had a good group of people this year! Pennsic is so fun. Definitely come if you can. Enchanted group was across from the Pennsic Independent, near the Site Store, this year. I don't know if that's the traditional site or something else.

[@Orolandes]

Thing is them getting 'adopted' is pretty normal. In 1991 I got divorced just two weeks before Pensic. I was a mental mess so I drove up. I don't know what I was thinking or why. Just a lost soul. No tent. No food. Really no garb. I just needed to get away. These folks from Tennessee took me in. Gave me a tent in their camp to use. One woman made me (on the spot No less) some basic tunics to get me by from sheets until I could buy a few more from merchants (Money was the only thing I HAD brought). The matron of the group made me come by daily to make sure I'd eaten. And if I hadn't she fed me. The two weeks I spent with them saved me. Gave me a place to feel like I belonged and was loved and let me sort my life out. I stayed with them almost every year I returned after that till my last time I went in 1998. (I was FAR better prepared those times).

[@carololeary5929]

I’ve been going to Pennsic since Pennsic 3 (1974). I’m retired now, but I worked for many years for the federal government. When I filled out my leave request form, I always answered the “reason for leave” question with “time travel.”

[@FairyKingParks]

Funny how this video made me go to my first SCA event, and by chance the same woman who ran that camp that adopted you adopted me and a friend at the meeting and showed us around.

[@SkillTree]

Then we are SCA siblings! Welcome to your non-negotiable adoption 😁

[@judithhill2687]

History geeks! The SCA lead me to a Masters degree centered on Medieval Women....and I now teach Western Civilization courses at college level....and I've been a SCAdian for over 20 years :)

[@SkillTree]

I can believe it. Some of the most intelligent and interesting people I have ever met were at Pennsic!The SCA seems to either attract or make them lol

[@Leanimal]

Thank you for your passion! Also your cat looks just like mine!

[@kyriellus]

I found the SCA at 15.. Over 30 years ago. This is the BEST description of our culture I have ever seen. You Grok us. I was the "npc" doing elaborate chalk drawing with giant compass and straight edge on the pavement near the glass blower.

[@CorrieBergeron]

The labyrinths are one of my favorite parts of Pennsic.

[@kyriellus]

@@CorrieBergeron Thank you. This year I added the Gothic Ornament Constructions. There will be classes next year.

[@3fgburner]

@@kyriellus I loved those!

[@UnstableJess]

You're a legend! My friends and I like to see how quickly we can walk your labyrinths on our way back to camp after partying!

[@markgrass7852]

Glad to hear you are still going strong Ambrosius. (Though you may have changed your name since I last seen you.) Look forward to walking your labyrinth this year

[@evinfuilt]

Glad you brought up the Blue Feathers. We are an LGBT+ group, that helps make sure the SCA is safe and inclusive for all.

[@snusmumricken]

It's also in many a kingdom too, we have a bluefeather presence in Lochac!

[@ETWL897]

@@snusmumricken new sub redit group started about a week ago r/ClanBlueFeather

[@ETWL897]

@evinfuilt new sub redit group started about a week ago r/ClanBlueFeather

[@fenriswolfq22]

Just out of curiosity what do you think excludes or used to exclude LGBTQ+ to begin with? Why does a specific group need to have inclusion enforced upon others? Shouldn’t showing up with a legitimate interest and good attitude be enough to be included…. That’s worked pretty well since about the mid Nineties when most people under 30 stopped caring what other people did in their private lives…

[@ETWL897]

@@fenriswolfq22 Clan Blue Feather is not new, it has been around for over 30 years. The exclusionary behavior takes all forms, from verbal remarks to physical to not making sure event locations are ADA compliant. Are you a member of the Society? What Kingdom? I can tell you people (including peers and nobles) have been caught discriminating against LGBTQ+ and disabled fairly recently. A member of a group I belong to, witnessed two knights disparage (out loud in open public) a member of the LGBTQ+ community less than six months ago. The Society is dealing with these people fairly swiftly these days. The old days of "Boys will be boys" are gone, we don't want this kind of behavior in the Society. It requires when people witness or are victim of such behavior it needs to be reported immediately to the local Seneschal or event steward or Kingdom Sovereign and Consort. I suggest taking the offender(s) photo so they can be identified by others if you don't know their name.

[@kangaroo5508]

I have heard of the SCA before, and I have always thought it was just the combat. Because of you guys, I have now discovered our local organization and now can't wait until my first event with them. Thank You for opening my eyes to this!!

[@kathykemmish4229]

Welcome to the SCA!

[@bkh23859]

There is so much! From every bit of Medieval historical classes. I took a sewing class, embroidery, and cooking. There's History, calligraphy, sword fighting, dancing (different time periods), heraldry.

[@Idrisapbran]

Welcome!

[@RangerTam]

Welcome! It's the hobby that leads to a million hobbies.

[@MMM-rv4lr]

Welcome!

[@OneStopTC]

I'm Lady Kirivi Romani Aioli, Fairy Godmother of the Wandering Wheel in Calafia, Caid (San Diego) and I have to say you have filled my heart with the joy you are sharing with your video! Thank you so much for sharing & you are always welcome at the Wobbly Wheel if you are out this way for Potrero War or Great Western War!

[@Lukiel666]

You need to go to a SCA feast. A researched historically accurate 5ish course dinner, a recreated medieval feast. Look up your local chapter and find when the next feast is.

[@brt5273]

My fave!

[@KimGibsonfiberlover]

Yes!

[@VAXHeadroom]

2nd this. You will not be sorry; likely it will be some of the best food you've ever had.

[@lizzieorwig64]

Agreed. As someone who is cooked several they are so much fun.

[@LordOwenLongstrider]

I have to say it is very refreshing, and humbling, to have a good, positive telling of what the SCA is like from a newcomer's perspective, because I have heard about many newcomers who have had bad experiences or didn't really get to know the organization and its members, often letting their preconceived notions/biases get in the way, and thus had a negative outlook on what the SCA is like. Like, a lot of people, seeing or hearing about our members making and drinking alcohol, would say we are a bunch of drunkards who like to beat the crap out of one another, but there is so much more to us than that, so it is great to have you guys present your experience with the SCA with a positive outlook. Thank you, and I encourage you to go to a few more events and maybe some of the local meetings, there is so much more you can learn about us, and from us. 😁

[@davidalbus8089]

I moved from one state to another in my teens. The first state I was really interested in sca in the first state because of how the people in that group was. They were very helpful and welcoming. When I moved to the new state and finally found an sca group I was very disappointed. To much drama and the fighting felt to watered down.

[@LordOwenLongstrider]

@@davidalbus8089 Sorry to hear that, it seems people get mixed welcomes depending on where they go. I had a friend who was made a Laural in my Kingdom of Ansteorra, but then she moved to I think the East Kingdom and they didn't really recognize her status as a Laural, I guess because she had received the rank in another kingdom it just wasn't seen as valid in their's or whatever. I guess it does come down to local politics and traditions in each kingdom and group.

[@barbjean1353]

@@davidalbus8089 I too started in one Kingdom and had a large active group I started with. I then moved to another Kingdom and took a break and the new group were good people but it was a small group and there was plenty of politics. I didn't let that stop me from doing the thing I love to do the most. I just changed the way I played. Pennsic is my home. I love going and missed the last one due to moving but, I'll be back and it will feel like home again when I go. I'll do the things I want to do and hang out with the people I want to hang out with and skip all the political stuff and it will be great. :)

[@luapssor]

I had bad experience at my first SCA event. Went to the Wessail event around Christmas/ Yule time. Was practically ignored the whole time my wife, couple of friends and I. We didn't know the right people so others didn't care. My friend and his wife who invited us were absolutely pissed on how we were treated. He ended up leaving a couple of weeks later, saying the way that New comers like me were treated was one if the reasons (he had a title in the kingdom, not sure what it was). He has moved to a different part of the US and different kingdom, and still hasn't returned close to 5 years and he was in for like 30 years over the actions of that kingdom .

[@LordOwenLongstrider]

@@luapssor I'm sorry, I wish they had been more welcoming, sadly; you find a-holes in just about every organization. I have a friend who is in the National Guard, so she moves around a lot; she became a Laural, the Knight-level rank for those in the Arts&Sciences, while she was in my kingdom, but when she moved to the Northeast, everyone seemed to ignore her rank, they treated her almost like she was still fairly new. I also have a friend who was King twice, he has always seemed like such a great guy, very knowledgeable, helpful, inspiring, but he left due to some people having resentment or distain for him for some personal reason or another. It is so sad to see new and old members leave because of those that can't pull their heads out of their own @$$es.

[@afalcon99]

As a long time SCAdian, this is one of the best first-time outsider reviews of Pennsic I've ever seen. You two better come back for Pennsic 50 next year!

[@SkillTree]

We definitely plan on it! Already have so many idea for what we want to do next year!

[@CafeBikeGirl]

Registrations hit 12,200 a few days ago and we have 2 days of registrations left. Looks like we might hit 13k this year. It is going to be bonkers!

[@elizabethh5266]

@@SkillTree If you're ever need of refreshment back behind the Great Hall, just look for the tiny tudor home and the checky flags :)

[@TalaAtTanagra]

​@@SkillTree if you're interested in Africa, I'm coordinating a whole new track for Pennsic University this year, the African Track! Come learn about trade routes and golden cities; learn to make (and drink) Ethiopian coffee, created a traditional clay coiled pot, or get your hands dirty in food and learn to make North African cous cous from scratch! There's so much to experience!

[@KristinMoran]

​@@SkillTreeI recently discovered your channel and have been watching some of your videos in between preparing for Pennsic 50, after a 9 year break. I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed it and plan on returning!

[@pensword14]

I have a Pelican in my local group - not a Knight, but, they take similar vows, focusing on service. I mentioned to him that I was having a hard time with depression. So every few days he'll message me a cheerful meme or gif, and I know that I can reach out to him at any time. They really, really mean those vows they take.

[@UnstableJess]

They really do. Pelicans are INCREDIBLE people, and it's an extremely prestigious award.

[@leekestner1554]

I am so glad you discovered the magic of Pensic. I will say that the monthly meetings don't quite match it but you do find family. I remember from the 25th Pensic and as I was walking around two 7 year olds spotted each other and recognized each other from the year before. They ran up to each other and shook hands and cried "Well met!" It made my day. My heart swelled. I was there the year of the Great Plague when a stomach virus rage through the camps. You may not have known but the Hospitalers are composed of Physicians and Nurse's who volunteer their time to make sure of the community's health. Without their help Pensic would not be a legal event. They quarantined some of the Port-O-Johns for the ill and made sure that the sick had enough fluids. They also monitor the health of the fighters. The year I was there one older gentleman died of a heart attack and 2 babies were born. I am so glad to hear that the Toochucks are still vibrant and strong. I attended last in 25 and 26. I never saw the battles. I did see the archery and the merchants. There was a group of Morris dancers that was going from restaurant and tavern performing. It is definately an event you must attend multiple times because you can never see it all in one time. I really must attend again.

[@johnsolomon592]

I got into the SCA in high school the mid 90s, convinced my parents to go to Pennsic for our family vacation. My mom fell in love and dad thought we were crazy. My mom and sisters went every year until she passed and I've been going until my wife went back to school 6 years ago. We are planning to go back next year ... I cant wait! I'm so happy you you had a good time and I hope you return next year. I'd love to meet you guys!

[@deathstarr6492]

I've been going to the SCA for my whole life and I'm happy to see you guys enjoyed! I grew up around my dad being a knight and going to events every weekend or two, it was a big part of my life and the community is so welcoming and fun.

[@Ren_is_true]

Same

[@sniperdgs]

im newer to the whole thing and the whole SCA has seamed very intimidating. so this video is GOLD for newbies...!!!!!!!

[@KimGibsonfiberlover]

49 was my 30th Pennsic, next year probably my last. I’m so glad you enjoyed yourselves, we sure need young folks to carry on. Pick up the torch! Learn a new thing! Dance a new dance! Throw an axe! Teach others, learn chivalry, courtesy, and honor!

[@BrandonS-lk2qc]

I'd love to hear your stories!

[@dyderich]

This is the best explanation of SCA culture I have ever heard from people new to the SCA. We have had plenty of documentaries and news pieces done. They are fighting heavy because that is the flashiest thing we do but it is only a small part of a greater whole. Thank you very much. I was at Pennsic running the youth fighting. Our kids can learn armored combat or rapier fighting as young as six years old. They are restricted to their age groups and have very stringent safety rules of course, but they are every bit as into what we do as the adults.

[@loudhitzzz2861]

my thoughts exactly, very descriptive.

[@ecogeek234]

I grew up as a SCAdian and havent been back in many many years. The moment you described the break in the trees to see the campground put a huge smile on my face because I could picture it and I love it. ETA: I've certainly had similar experiences in the bog parties, glad to see the Lost Boys still partying away (my mother was one of the generations) The Blue Feather is an LGBTQIA+ group and the Blue Feather Ball is really something to behold. Lastly, the SCA and pennsic especially is so amazing because of the amount of activities there are to do. I know plenty of people who spend the whole war learning, or fighting, or hell BEING ROYALTY, but also plenty of people who use it as a time to relax and do nothing except hang out in our camp's communial space and just reconnect with friends. I miss the SCA and my clan so much and I hope I get to return home soon. Have a great town run, and hope to see you back at more events 💕

[@jujunuts]

*waves from the mammock* Who's yer mom? LOL

[@rogueally7993]

Hopefully you’ll be able to come next year! It’s hard when regular life takes over and you don’t have that escape.

[@Bb-rv8ei]

Wheres the bog at? I was able to go to the blue feathers lgbt event this year but wasn't able to locate "THE BOG"

[@richardabjorklund]

Bottom of the Runestone Field, between the lake and the river...I think...

[@Bb-rv8ei]

@@richardabjorklund thank you! I was hoping to go around this year and attend a bog party

[@jenrsmall1218]

We we camped just down the road from you! So great to be back this year in spite of the weather. Thanks for this lovely piece on Pennsic and the SCA. So often reporting is about "look at this weird hobby"... Glad you shared the warmth of the community!

[@SkillTree]

Thanks for watching! I hope we were able to do it justice. So hard to find the correct words to express how great the experience was.

[@patrickearl8896]

I have shared this with my fellow re-enactors in Australia to remind them about how it should feel when you attend events. And to reinforce the importance of having enough and clean toilets when you run events.

[@katehubbard7067]

I'm also in MA, been going to Pennsic for 26 years! We have a smaller local 3 day war in Hebron Maine two weeks before Pennsic you guys would probably enjoy. It's called "The Great Northeastern War". So glad you had a good time!

[@cpkittenkatt]

Take ‘em under your wing, Kate! I hate to think of cool new people being stuck on the Ghetti when there’s singles below the treeline :D

[@deborahcurry1014]

I love GNEW. I live in ME. It's my favorite event. Never have been to Pennsic. I've been involved in SCA since 2002. This year my daughter is going with me to Hebron. She is 23 and the last time she went she was 2 yrs old. I'm so excited.

[@scottkfilgo]

It’s awesome that you had fun with SCA, and I’m sure your milage varies as much as anyone’s can, but when I tried to get into SCA, in my area, 35 years ago… the local SCA folks were very exclusive and very particular. No tolerance for any historical inaccuracy. There was no interest in facilitating newbies at all, especially a bunch of Conan and Bilbo loving fantasy nerds like us! I think, considering your tale of Viking Luaus and golf cart tours, that in general, SCA has lightened up a bit in the past 35 years for the sake of injecting fun into the whole experience! That was of course my milage, and a long time ago. So nice to hear how positive your experience was.

[@erinm2765]

The SCA has grown a lot in 35 years, and some of it has been against the will of the dinosaurs you seem to have encountered. If you’re still interested, it’s worth giving us another shot.

[@scottkfilgo]

@@erinm2765 that’s really good to hear. I’m in Austin Texas which I think was within the borders of Ansteorra. I’ll hit them up. I’m already geared up for my clan at Sherwood Forest Fair and also for the new local LARP, Hynafol, so SCA would be a nice next step if the have evolved like you say!

[@myowndrummer3372]

I made it to Pennsic 50 because of these guys. They confirmed that newbies are welcome. It is a great event, think Burning Man crossed with Renfaire.

[@annalorree]

I began with the SCA in 1993ish, was involved for a few years, then wandered off into Mundainia. I am considering becoming involved again as a “more mature” person, and sharing the experience with my daughter and her partner.

[@LordOwenLongstrider]

8:00 Yes, I fully agree, the SCA is as much a family as any, we take care of our own. One example is, following hurricanes Katrina and Rita that blew through the area where the Gulf Wars site is, 200+ trees on the site alone got uprooted and knocked over, and the roads were full of debrie; the following year the site owner came up in our big court at the end of the event where all the kings and queens in attendance preside, to thank us and tell how the local SCA members in that area came out and started helping clear the roads and clean-up and repair the site within days of the storms passing through. And then many members in the path of the storms got hit hard, their homes damaged, much of their belongings damaged or lost, and the members who hadn't pitched in to help clean-up and make repairs, and help replace what was lost, and he same happened after Hurricane Harvey that blew through the Texas coast, mostly around Houston. And then, the Covid pandemic hit right before Gulf Wars 2020 was supposed to start and it was cancelled (some people had already arrived early to help set-up so they had a little mini-Gulf Wars) but then all the merchants, who for many Gulf Wars makes up a good chunk of their yearly profits, were at a loss, so someone started a merchant relief group on Facebook for merchants to post links to their websites, or just post pictures and contact info for themselves and tons of people bought up as much of their stuff as they wanted, not nearly as much as normally but still a lot of people tried to help make up for their lost profits, and the guy who usually sells the annual Gulf Wars t-shirts got a bunch of "Gulf Wasn't 2020" and plague-themed t-shirts made to sell within weeks of the event being cancelled. And there are so many other stories of how we've helped one another after major and minor disasters, and how we go above and beyond to help and accommodate people in and outside the SCA. 😁

[@elspeththedruid]

Or the person that created the Medievalist box's that helped small business.

[@rhiannonmorgaine3982]

Or the "Plague Year" mug that Hughes did for Pennsic

[@Caeleinn]

I remember that Katrina hit very close to the weekend that our first King and Queen of Glenn Abhann were due to be crowned. If I recall correctly, our Kingdom thrones were in a storage building that got hit pretty hard and were destroyed. We had to postpone coronation for a few months to make sure our people were taken care of first. We are a Kingdom born in a storm, but we rose from the depths to overcome. I still have my site handbook from Gulf Wars 2006, because the cover art was absolutely stunning.

[@kcricket39]

Where does Gulf Wars take place? I used to pass a big place near my college town that I'm pretty sure was an SCA event space, and it definitely got hit hard by Katrina.

[@LordOwenLongstrider]

@@kcricket39 Near Lumberton, Mississippi, I think somewhere along the highway between Lumberton and Slidell, there is or use to be a large golf course, as well as a small rural community there.

[@elspeththedruid]

The sca doesn't just have armored fighting but also a type of fighting called Rapier which is more renaissance Era fighting. The sca is an amazing group and is home. I have been in the sca about 6 years and love it

[@Ren_is_true]

I’ve been doing the SCA since I was born (my parents met through it) and have been going to pennsic since I was 9-10 months old so it’s interesting to see someone Who has never been to a SCA events point of view on this

[@Runix1]

"My camp had to buy me back with two boxes if whiskey, but they were AWESOME" I've never met this storekeep before, but I love them

[@CorrieBergeron]

I've been a member of the SCA for over 40 years. (My first Pennsic was #10.) You guys clearly "got it" about the SCA and about Pennsic. You did an excellent job of describing something that's really hard to describe. (And it was fun to see friends and the camp that's right across the street from ours in your video.) I hope to see you next year!

[@laurawagner4901]

My first Pennsic was also #10 so glad you had such a positive experience at our “family reunion “ and were able to convey our culture so well. hope you will continue being part of our community

[@mommabear5297]

I was born into the SCA and it was a huge part of my life growing up. While like every group we have our...less welcoming... elements for the most part we really are kind of a massive family. Many of us refer to pennsic as home and miss it like crazy. Very few encampments I've come across don't welcome pretty much anyone wandering in especially if they're new or don't know people. I'm glad you guys had such a good experience! If you ever go again there's a place in the 'food court' area that sells these amazing spaghetti bread bowls that I can't recommend strongly enough (If it's still there, I haven't been able to for over a decade) OMG you found The Lost Boys! They and Kindred we're my favorite parties!

[@mommabear5297]

21:00 it's called a persona. Main difference between it and a character is your persona is you reflected in the time period/culture you choose (I also larp and am used to people asking what the difference is)

[@Owendmad]

Thank you for sharing this wonderful video! I met my wife when we were members of the SCA, and we attended several Pennsic Wars together before dropping out to focus on our “mundane” life. I have shared this video with my daughter, who attended the War as a toddler. She is 23 now, and has asked me about the SCA and what it was like. Now she can get a good idea of how it appears to first time visitors. I hope you return again. If you do, you will make some life-long friends. Perhaps some day our paths will cross. If they do, I shall be at your service. Cordially, Lord Owen The Mad

[@erinm2765]

OH MY GOD, you were in our amoeba!! You guys were so much fun to hang out with, and I really regretted not getting to see you again. This video is incredible. Thank you so much for coming, and thank you SO MUCH for making this amazing introduction to our community!

[@fatalrenegade]

Have grown up in the SCA, and Pennsic is definitely the epitome of the organization. There are smaller events almost every weekend all over. You can totally keep the feeling alive (and learn more stuff that you are into) by going to the smaller events closer to home.

[@walnutfreak24]

I just got started in the SCA here in central florida and I completely agree, the sense of community and welcoming feel for newcomers is amazing. I did my first combat practice last week and it was so much fun

[@SkillTree]

It really is one of the most inclusive and welcoming communities we have even encountered. Amazing people.

[@grayb90]

What fighter practice you go to? I usually hit up St.Augustine or Gainesville

[@caydencuva6449]

At 29:10 the fighter with the blue and white diamond-patterned baldric, with the stag on the front! That's Duke Cellach (pronounced like Tom Selleck) of the Middle Kingdom!! Just one example of why heraldry in the middle ages was so important. You have to be able to spot your allies, and I was able to pick out one of my local fighters from a three-second clip! Also, the Viking Luau is the West Kingdom. And the Blue Feather Clan is the SCA's queer pride group within the SCA. The Ball is their annual charity raffle. I was born into the SCA. My dad got into it in college, and has been with it ever since. I truly consider my household more of a family than either of my parents' siblings. They are closer to me than blood, and the things that I've learned in this group have genuinely made me a better person. To any non-Scadian watching this video and reading comments, go to a local event! Go to the SCA website, look up your local group, and just see it for yourself! Talk to your local nerds, take classes, or don't! I've been in the SCA my whole life and I am just there for the community and the occasional impromptu history lesson. You don't HAVE to do anything serious, you don't HAVE to be an artisan or a historian. The fun and family are the important part.

[@Hacker-at-Large]

Haven’t heard of Pensic and the SCA for like 30 years. Good to hear they’re still going. Also, never knew I needed a viking luau. Now I know.

[@SkillTree]

We didn't know we needed it in our lives either. Now we could never go without

[@owly33]

Yeah we’re 20 kingdoms now :-)

[@annemariecray3786]

So great to hear of your positive experience and "see" the SCA through your "new" eyes. I hope you make your way to 50!!! It should be a blast!

[@christinec.3817]

The beautiful thing about Pennsic is that it is NOT a public spectator event but rather a huge group of people of all ages the simply just love to do this reacting as a hobby and the two week escape from every day life. It is truly magical 👑😍.

[@kathyl6677]

I used to attend Estrella War, SCA's 2nd largest annual event. Been planning on next year at Pennsic for their 50th. Thanks for explaining that SCA is not LARP.

[@bleukat]

I miss Pennsic. Haven’t been in 20 years. Thank you for this taste.

[@deborahgeary9429]

It’s Brigadoon. I’ve been SCA for a over 20 years. My first Pennsic was in 2002. I camp in the Mountain Confederation in E12. I hope you came to our Piper’s Night.

[@SkillTree]

I will have to pay you a visit! Thanks for watching!

[@TheRealWeirdoC]

I subscribed to your channel shortly before I headed off to Pennsic. Wish I had recognized you two in passing so I could have said hello. Hope to see you come back next year!

[@SkillTree]

That would've been AWESOME! Next year!

[@barrycampbell4287]

Welcome to the SCA!!! They fed you so your family. I’ve been playing for about 5 years and it’s the best community I’ve ever encountered. Experimental archeology at its finest.

[@glendacockrum1783]

Welcome to our world! My first Pennsic was 9, and I have only missed two. My children have been raised in the SCA and now my grandchildren. I live within a 45 minute drive, so I am spoiled, 😆. Please feel free to come down to House Clovenshield next year, we are a mercenary group of fighters, musicians and dancers. We usually have our big party the last Friday, just ask around for directions to the Bacon Party, take your best route to Sedalias Way and head towards the Bog!

[@jturn4646]

We were sad about the bacon party 🥓 😭 🥓 Hopefully next year!

[@glendacockrum1783]

@@jturn4646 yes, it was a tough decision, but with so many camps on our stretch of Sedalias Way having positive covid tests the decision was made to cancel this year.

[@cherylrobertson6673]

I have been a part of the SCA for over 37 years. I have raised my kids in the SCA. You are so right about it being a community! I am thrilled my brethren gave you a great experience (even the Tochuxs!-scary but great bunch). This is MY first time on your channel but I have hit the subscribe. Excited to explore your world. Thank you.

[@WBConcilio]

Wow, I have been going to Pennsic for 17 years, and you guys NAILED it!! Thank you so much for making this

[@efenwealt]

This past year was my 30th Pennsic. It is so delightful hearing y’all pick up on everything that makes the event and the SCA so special. Sharing the Dream!

[@snugglyevil]

I had stopped going to Pennsic due to family issues. I have so missed it and listening to your enthusiasm makes me homesick for it. You were talking about the broken thumb and I had to laugh. My first Pennsic, I took a class on "How to Extricate a Knight from Their Armor". FIghters are SOOOO hype about their armor. People rushing to get something like a breastplate off could damage it. Fighters care more about their stuff than their injuries at times. The Luau had me laughing too. I used to belong to the SinPit. Every day we posted the "Sin of the Day". We had (for like 3 yrs) had Hawaiian tunics for the Day of Sloth. Pennsic is still amazing.

[@joshmcdonald5520]

As an SCA member, welcome to the family. Pennsic is a magical place for all of us, and we are glad that you were able to share our personal happy place with us. See you next year then?

[@rprowett]

This is one of the nicest reviews of the SCA I have ever heard! I have been in the SCA since 1985. I met my wife there, raised my children in the SCA, and love it dearly! I am SO glad you had such an amazing time! Come on back anytime! And let me know if you ever come to the PNW, we will continue to share amazing experiences with you!

[@tmcclennen1]

I went to every Pennsic from number 18 (still inside my mom) until number 32, and then I didn't go for most of two decades. Pennsic 49 was my return, so I was experiencing what you did, and it was in some ways new to me also, and in other ways very familiar. I few thoughts for you: The reason that you didn't have to wait in line for the shower is because a lot of the group camps actually build a shower in their camp. I was lucky enough to be part of one such this year. If you two attend next Pennsic, and join one of the many camps that does this, you also will find yourself having a routine that does not involve walking to the main shower house. Most of the fighers on the field are not knights. Knighthood is a rank that people have to earn by playing the game, and not everyone does. Fighters, including knights, are "fighters". I'm so glad that you two had a great time, and maybe we will run into eachother next year.

[@shawnmacintyre9982]

Great Video! I have been in the SCA for about 20 years and Iwas so drawn to it that I returned to school for History and now have a Master's Degree in History and teach classes about the Americas at Pennsic.

[@SkillTree]

Such a common theme! I am wondering if the SCA attracts all the most interesting people or has a hand in making them! Either way, it is the highest concentration of them I have ever found😁

[@TalaAtTanagra]

So cool! I wasn't able to make it back to Pennsic this summer, but I started a Pennsic University class track on North African culture and history. I'd love to go to some classes on the Americas though. Perhaps next year 😊

[@jeremiahwhite4403]

Haven't been to Pennsic in years, but I've been part of the SCA for 6 years now. Welcome to our world!

[@Valicyn]

You should search and find out how Pennsic started. It's amazing story. And the man who started it all tells amazing stories. He wanders around Pennsic and stops at random camps and tells stories. It's quite the experience. Oh and welcome to the East Kingdom. Maybe we'll see you at Great North Eastern War next year in Maine.

[@MMinx-ct5pk]

When is the Great North Eastern War?

[@Valicyn]

@@MMinx-ct5pk start of July usually

[@Pty707]

Love all of your videos. You guys are great! Also TREES and DRAGONS had me laughing! 😂

[@chaotic-goodartistry3903]

I completely agree with what you said about how inclusive the SCA community is, which makes sense, considering just how many neurodivergent and otherwise diverse people the topic of the middle ages and intense crafting hobbies draws. It's great, I get to meet so many fellows :)

[@mikesmicroshop4385]

I remember my first time at Pennsic! It was not until I was on my way home and we stopped at a McDonalds to get food! As I passed a newspaper box I suddenly realized that for the previous TWO WEEKS, I had not thought about the Mundane World at all the whole time I was there! I smiled to myself and said, "That was an amazing vacation"...!

[@ginacook6344]

I've been part of the SCA for about 25 years and have attended 13 Pennsics so far - you two described the experience extremely well. Sounds like you made your own fun which made it a fantastic experience. Thank you for sharing this on your channel! Thank you for talking about the classes that are held. There were actually 2,500 different classes during this past Pennsic.

[@pinkpandamiranda]

I've now found out about my local chapter in Manhattan and this is so freaking cool! Thank you! Edit - I just signed up for Pennsic 50 - I got into this because of you guys ❤

[@brt5273]

Wow, Pennsic 49. My first was number 14. It was a long journey from Ansteorra (Texas/Oklahoma) but I managed to go three times until the first Gulf War was held closer to home, which I then attended many times before tapering off on traveling. Lot's of good times.

[@Brieve]

I’m glad to hear you enjoyed the Lostboys party. I was one of the bartenders that night. A lot of our folks are current or used to be professional bartenders. Hope you come back.

[@SkillTree]

And we greatly enjoyed your Mostly Rum and Pickle Whiskey! Thank you for helping make our first night there a blast!

[@chaotic-goodartistry3903]

Fun fact, they've had to build a post office in the area because so many people go to Pennsic that it legally becomes a town for the duration of the event

[@emilylindtveit3896]

Days will be HOT, but nights can get really cold! Like frosty. Bring a good cape!

[@marcchoronzey3923]

My last Pennsic was in 2004. I really miss it but I have always enjoyed the people, classes and atmosphere. Welcome to our world.

[@abacusgeek7903]

Love that you enjoyed the clout. I shot 125 m today, and will be participating in a 'Sticke and Stringe' tournament tomorrow for longbowers in historical costume. Loving it.

[@SkillTree]

You have CRAZY skill. Those shots are super impressive.

[@abacusgeek7903]

@@SkillTree I'm the current state record holder for longbow clout in Western Australia. I have a reputation to defend!!

[@lordkuma7935]

I'm sorry I missed you there. Next year is Pennsic 50! You must be there! Come up to the Thrown Weapons Range, I will give you a few pointers on throwing axe and knife and such. We are located up from the battlefield, where all the bright yellow ribbons are. It's a blast! Glad you had a great time!

[@baronfum]

Hi guys, folks call me Fum and I was at the very first Pennsic war. I am so very glad to hear what a good time you had when you came. Your video is wonderful, and I thank you for it. I shared it right away. I'm glad to see you got video of the Janissaries marching, they were impressive. Have a great day, you made mine great!

[@stevostoys]

I am in my 33rd year in the SCA and a Knight, I have been to Pennsic 13 times, starting at Pennsic 21, you have really captured what is best about the SCA.

[@blaze0rama]

Shire of Nordenhal in the East Kingdom, here! Been in the SCA since 1977 and one of the things I really love is that you can evolve and grown within the Organization. Never boring, you can reinvent what you do, and teaching others is one of the best things that happen!

[@RavenAttwoode]

Hello from the kingdom of Meridies! I'm so glad that you got to experience the community aspect of the SCA. That feeling you described, where people just turned and included you in the conversation, is one of my favorite parts of the SCA! We are all just friends that you haven't met yet. 🤗

[@jenneheise]

Thank you! I've bookmarked this to share with people who are like 'what is this thing you do everything August?'

[@rynnarokh3895]

I miss Pennsic so much. Thank you for posting this! It was so fun to see it theough the eyes of a newcomer to the event and the SCA in general!

[@SkillTree]

It was SO MUCH fun. The community is amazing.

[@louisatomasiewicz8308]

I just went to my first local sca event and indtantly got this same vibe, ans it was the most amazing community and event. Ill definitely be staying involved and am so excited!!

[@UnderdogSMO]

I grew up in the SCA, stop going after I moved out, then picked it back up for a bit and got into heavy fighting for a bit, life got busy though and dropped it. been to Pennsic a few times. did my fair share of digging a hole in the ground to make bread

[@olafm4767]

Glad you enjoyed it. I'm a siege engineer in a small city in Washington state (Wealdsmere An-tir). I've never been to Pensic but I've enjoyed Gulf Wars in Mississippi. :)

[@bkh23859]

I haven't been to Pennsic in 11 years and still think of it as Home. It's truly one of the best experiences of my life.

[@martelvonc]

LOL! I have partied in the bog with the "Ameoba". It's true. I've been in the SCA since 1978 and I have enjoyed the making aspect of the organization. I loved the whole aspect of making things and actually using them.

[@williamproctor5025]

Almost every major, and many minor, universities have a branch of the SCA as a student org. That is how I got involved in the 90s.

[@navarrduphoenixx]

Hello again! Great to see that you had fun at Pennsic! You cannot overstate the overwhelming nature of the event, the quality of the merchants, or the inclusiveness of the revels. I haven't been in 25 years, but friends go every year, and I send them with a shopping/wish-list. Prior to the SCA I had a vague interest in history and period-crafts. After Pennsic I had a beginner's interest in calligraphy, heraldry, and dance. I stuck with calligraphy and heraldry, and improved my skills to the point where I am "mediocre" and really proud of that! And I look for inspiration from SCA scribes and heralds, who describe the research they have done to make this shade of red ink using the same methods as their persona could have used in the 1450s. It is endlessly fascinating. (Red ink being near-and-dear to my Hadrian heart.) The Blue Feather parties have always been epic, and I'm thrilled you could experience one.

[@josephmorgan3058]

Pennsic is so important for many families that everything from the vehicle you buy to the planned conception of a kid can be and has been controlled by the needs if going to Pennsic

[@ChristinaKing70]

Another long-time Pennsic attendee here (my first was in 1997). I loved this video and your enthusiasm for our event, our organization, and our culture. It's always refreshing to take a step back and see it with new eyes. You captured the spirit of Pennsic very well!

[@jonadams4062]

And my first Pennsic was with YOU!❤

[@davidlash2648]

It was great having you guys in our camp and I really look forward to seeing you next year. I will make sure I have kegs of cider and beer for you

[@CorrieBergeron]

I wondered if it was you guys they were describing. Not the least bit surprised. 🙂

[@aimeemoran7549]

3Bears is awesome.

[@karenariannakasper7429]

What a great recap of Pennsic! I've been in the SCA for 45 years and haven't missed a Pennsic since I joined. My two kids, now in their 20s, grew up in the SCA and yes, they've learned a lot of things that you won't get elsewhere. You're very right that it is family, and we are always there for each other whenever someone has problems or needs something. BTW, the people guarding camps were almost certainly guarding royal (Kingdom) camps. They're really there just for show. I hope you'll be back!

[@Rozewolf]

We call it Living the Dream. :) We love recreating history and/or participate in experiential archaeology. :)

[@SkillTree]

It really was a dream there! Such a good experience!

[@cpkittenkatt]

Something to note: Other than blocks that start with the letter X, every residential block on the map is supposed to have singles camping available. If you found somewhere that you liked geographically, you should consider a move. You’ll find good people on every block, but the lifestyle difference is Major from area to area and it’s driven by geography. Want to get to know people the best way? Stop by in late afternoon/early evening with a bottle of something or a bite to share. Offer to pitch in and help somewhere, and you will be welcome to nearly everything. Bear in mind that sometimes camps sometimes are holding private events like weddings or funerals or just closed meetings, but it’s fairly universal that help is currency, booze is friendly, and food is family.

[@DevinParker]

I went to one or two SCA events back in the early 2000s (Estrella), and everything I experienced there is true to what you've described happening at Pennsic! The people were really nice, always willing to share the knowledge of whatever field of interest they had pursued, and the shopping! Oh, man, the shopping. There was a lot of the sort of thing you'd find at a Renaissance Faire, but at better prices. The second time our group went, we had a Turkish-themed encampment and costuming. At night, there were drum circles about every hundred paces amidst all the tents, with people dancing, drinking, and having fun. During the day we watched the armored knights fighting/repelling an assault over a bridge constructed of haybales and wood, and speculated about the feasibility of getting a nice safe gig as a siege artillerist way back in the van. I'm glad to hear things are still going strong! I hope someday I can make it out to Pennsic.

[@only_kamz6067]

I did not get to make it to Pennsic this year. Have been in the SCA most my life it is AWESOME to see that a Channel that I watch visited. You are now SCA family!

[@SkillTree]

We are DEFINITELY going to future events, so hopefully we will see you there in the future!

[@jordanmurphy4806]

16:06 Your morning watch story makes me laugh every time I watch this. I was actually the person standing at the gate when you two drove by the Tuchux that morning.

[@videokilledaradiosta]

I never thought I'd see anyone talking about the SCA on youtube. Having been an SCA member myself I'm happy to see the SCA attracting new people. I'm glad to hear you enjoyed yourselves at Pennsic.When I used to attend regularly I was a jester it opened all doors even the tuchucks.

[@rogueally7993]

There are lots of cool SCA videos out these days!

[@Viperzka]

This is why I love the SCA so much. I have never been to Pennsic but am planning on making the pilgrimage for the 50th anniversary next year.

[@marydawkins4190]

LOL I remember seeing you guys in your grass skirts at the Blue Feather Ball. Glad you enjoyed the entire event. I a magical experience. You guys got to experience far more of Pennsic than most of us who've been going for decades!

[@arlalorincz1236]

Wow! What a great video about Pennsic/SCA. I've been a member since 1979 & you did such a great job of capturing what our Society is. Thank you. I have now subscribed to your channel & look forward to viewing more of your videos.

[@SkillTree]

I am so glad we did it some justice. It is so hard to articulate what a wonderful experience it was and how much we appreciated how welcoming the community is. Thank you so much for watching and becoming part of our family of skillmonkeys 😁

[@debvoz]

So glad you enjoyed Pennsic! My first Pennsic was 20. In those days it was an extended weekend, but the attitude hasn't changed a bit. The friendly, welcoming attitudes, the social environment, all the great aspects, including the clean portapotties!

[@anastasiaw4163]

I have been in the SCA since I was about 8. It is absolutely my found family and has made me a better person. The support of these people has saved me in some dark times. I didn’t get to go to Pennsic this year and I missed it terribly. This made my little heart happy. That community. That family. The love and caring is why I will always come back. and thank you for being clear it’s not a LARP! 😅😂

[@wildcatww]

40+ year Pennsic attendee and Tuchux here. We're not Goreans, that's something else. But we do have our own thing going on. And we won't always take the wheels off the golf cart. Sometimes we just take it back to security to tell them what a good job you are doing. Come up to camp next time. We're not all as bad as they say we are, just some of us.

[@LibertyBelleNews]

Oh hi Wildcat.

[@LordOwenLongstrider]

6:55 Reminds me of Gulfnado when a tornado passed by Gulf Wars a few years ago, passing 65 miles away but a microburst blew through. Before it hit, we were watching the dark clouds overhead and occasionally talking about what we should do if a tornado did hit the site, and then we got an alert and a few minutes later the microburst hit. The big pavilion we had up began to lift up so me and a few others grabbed the sides to hold it down, I got drenched by torrential rain, pea-sized hail, and there was wind and lightning all around for like 20 minutes but it felt longer. Since we have a saying that "it isn't a Gulf Wars if it doesn't rain", because we will have a variety of weathers throughout the week, usually rain, so we tend to make sure our tents are secure, tied down, covered in tarps, etc., and thankfully most of our tents in my little group were alright. But we later heard a tree had fallen onto a tent (thankfully no-one was inside), a tree limb went through a car windshield, and some poor kid was in the portapotty when it hit and was trapped in there the entire time, and then also a few trees in the nearby golf course were hit by lightning; as much damage as there was, it could have been a lot worse. Afterwards, someone started selling "I survived Gulfnado" t-shirts. 😂

[@williamproctor5025]

We had a saying for newbies packing for Pennsic. It gets very hot. It gets very cold. It gets very dry. It gets very wet. Often, all on the same day. 😀

[@totallystories]

My second event was Pennsic, and you described what it was like to be a newbie and how much there is to learn and experience. Nice job describing the experience, I am so glad you enjoyed it. Next time perhaps you have time to enjoy all the performances in the Performing Arts Pavillion as well. I hope you both get to come back for year 50 next year.

[@SkillTree]

We will 100% be back next year! See you there!

[@totallystories]

@@SkillTree You will find me Scholastica Joycors in the Performing Arts Tent.