Like we need an excuse to head to RL.

It's time to brush up on your best Shakespearian accent and head to Red Lodge this weekend for one of the largest Renaissance festivals in the region, the Montana Renaissance Festival, held June 1 and 2 this year at the Red Lodge Fairgrounds.

The forecast this weekend looks promising (around 70 with a chance of showers) for a fun-filled couple of days in one of our favorite Montana mountain towns.

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A quick refresher on when the Renaissance occurred.

The Renaissance era was about 300 years, as Europe exited the Dark Ages. This was the time of kings and queens, knights and fair maidens, the invention of the printing press, and Martin Luther's Protestant Reformation.

Michaelangelo and DaVinci were doing cool stuff and things were good. The United States Library of Congress wrote,

The Renaissance arrived at different countries at varying times- Italy was the first to experience this movement beginning in the 14th century while it did not reach England until the sixteenth century. A general consensus among historians is that by the early 17th century, the Renaissance had come to an end.

Purist Renaissance reenactors attempt to accurately duplicate period-appropriate costumes, while less stringent fans have been known to incorporate a steam-punk style. Regardless, the Ren Fest this year in Red Lodge promises to be a fantastic time for participants and attendees.

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Over 130 vendor booths and five entertainment stages.

Hundreds of fans attend the two-day festival each day. Check out our awesome photo gallery at the bottom of this article from when our contributor Trent visited a couple of years ago.

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Lots of stuff to see and do.

There are over 30 entertainers and performers on the roster, offering everything from palm readings and dancers to magicians and bards. Highlights include signature events such as the jousting crew and battle reenactments. Top it off with demonstrations from skilled craftsmen and women creating swords, pottery, and more.

If I didn't have prior commitments this weekend, I would love to go. A family of four can attend for just $40. Find out more HERE.

24 Awesome Photos from the 2022 Montana Renaissance Festival

Whether it was the dress, the jousting, or even the sword swallowing, there was plenty to see this year at the 2022 Montana Renaissance Festival. Check out these awesome photos below!

Gallery Credit: Trent Flager, Aaron Consalvi

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