El Paso steps back in time for Borderlands Renaissance Faire at Ascarate Park
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Live music, combat demonstrations, local food and hundreds of visitors dressed in full medieval attire took over Ascarate Park on Saturday for the first Borderlands Renaissance Faire.
From wizards and fairies to kings and plague doctors, the park transformed into a 16th-century kingdom for the historic weekend gathering.
Upon arrival, attendees were immediately transported back in time, greeted by the sounds of bagpipes, local artisans selling handcrafted goods, and interactive quests featuring pirates and historical lore.
"We can make a very small impact on a lot of people and separate the world that you're in, and just focus on the now and have a good time and just be carefree and have fun," said Chum, one of the event's featured performers. "This is an opportunity to forget the world and leave it behind. Come out and immerse yourself in the magic and mystery of the world. Talk to other people. Leave your devices behind. Just talk to the person in front of you."
The family-friendly event featured fencing performances, sword fighting demonstrations, circus acts, dances, interactive card tricks from jesters, and three distinct themed zones. The Mortal Outpost, The Seelie Grove, and The Shadow Court—for attendees to explore.
For many attendees, the highlights were the handmade details and community expression. Zoey and Jetson told ABC-7 they spent months crafting their outfits prior to the event.
"I think it's fun when we can make costumes, put on makeup, and get into character," they said. "It's a form of expression, but also using your hands to make something."
Attendees expressed excitement over El Paso hosting an immersive Renaissance festival of this scale for the first time.
"It's the costumes, it's the princesses, it's the witches, it's the monsters that everybody else wears—that is the best thing," Jetson added.
The magic continues Sunday at Ascarate Park. The faire runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ascarate Park Pavillion (6900 Delta Dr.).
