Southeast New Brunswick is gearing up for the inaugural Shediac Renaissance Faire this weekend, attracting tourists dressed in medieval garb. Tickets for the two-day event have completely sold out, leaving many attendees scrambling for accommodations. Andrew Barriault, traveling from Corner Brook, N.L., managed to secure a resale ticket but is still without lodging, joking that he might end up sleeping in his car in costume. The event, held at the Neptune Drive-in for the first time, features a vibrant marketplace, live entertainment, role-playing activities, workshops, and more.
Organized by Shediac Wonderland, the festival has garnered immense interest, with thousands inquiring about ticket availability post sell-out. Sébastien Després, the festival organizer, expressed astonishment at the overwhelming response, initially conceived as a small-scale Renaissance faire during planning discussions. Anticipating a surge in tourism post-National Acadian Day on Aug. 15, Després strategically scheduled the festival to maintain momentum in Shediac’s tourism sector.
Partnering with Parlee Beach Provincial Park, the event organizers ensure ample parking and evening event hosting. Michel Mallet, the park manager, highlighted the positive impact of such large-scale events on local businesses, boosting tourism and economic activity in the region. As the excitement builds for the Shediac Renaissance Faire, attendees like Barriault eagerly anticipate the opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts in a welcoming community that celebrates diverse interests and passions.