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What is an "event"? Simply put, it is a gathering of
SCAdians for a specific purpose, whether it be war, business, or revelry. The reasons for
the event and the length of time spent at one can vary widely. Here are a few of the most
common types:
 | DEMO - i.e. a "demonstration", usually hosted by a
local group to inform the community about the SCA. There will most often be an ongoing
booth where members will display and work upon various SCA items (such as mail, costumes,
needle-work, and calligraphy) as well as performing and martial arts exhibitions staged at
intervals.
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| REVEL - a small (under 50) local event,
normally held in town. It may or may not start with an afternoon tourney or other
activity, but usually there is a pot-luck feast in the evening, some entertainment, and
perhaps a bardic circle where everyone performs. A very small, laid-back event.
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| LOCAL EVENT - Commonly a weekend event, within
a hour's drive of the hosting group. There is usually a theme or excuse to gather, such as
a tournament, or art/science competition.
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| KINGDOM/PRINCIPALITY EVENT - a big event
(100-300) which is probably one of the following
 | ARTS & SCIENCES FAIR - various arts & sciences
creations are judged for beauty, creativity, and authenticity. Classes in various subjects
are often taught. A chance to show off what you can do!
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| COLLEGIUM - organized classes on the gentle and martial arts,
plus sciences and other topics of interest. A chance to learn new stuff!
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| CROWN LYST - fighters take the field for the honor of becoming
the new Sovereign of the Kingdom for the next six months.
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| CORONATION - the new Sovereigns are crowned amidst much pomp
and circumstance. The focal points of the event are the courts of the retiring and
succeeding Sovereigns, plus officer and peerage meetings, with usually a Curia on the
second day.
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WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE
EVENT:
Besides tournaments and art/science competitions, you will
probably see a Court or two, possibly Curia and/or a Bardic
Circle. It is during Court that the Crown gives out awards and
titles to those that have earned them, accepts gifts from the populace, and generally
handles any business necessary. Curia can best be described as a
"town meeting", where any member of the group can be heard on matters of
concern. Feast is usually held in the evening, in the Hall, if available,
and can range from twelve course meals to impromptu pot-luck dinners. The Bardic
Circle gathers later, around 'a campfire, to share stories, poems, or songs
amongst those participating. Traditionally, a candle is passed from hand to hand, the
holder being required to sing or recite for the entertainment of all present.
A suggestion for your
first event--At your first event, you may feel a bit lost, but keep in mind that
everyone there was a newcomer at some time. Be polite, call everyone "milord" or
"milady" (unless you know they have a greater title). When in doubt, smile and
bow/curtsey! And if you really want to be popular, volunteer to help somewhere...like
serving feast, watching the gate, or cleaning up. The autocrats (the people in charge of
the event) will love you, and it's a great way to meet people!
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