In a first for Whidbey Island, mounted knights will joust for supremacy on local fields this May, and Elka Burnett couldn’t be more excited.
The Retail Branch Manager at the Peoples Bank Coupeville Branch first saw discussion about a possible Renaissance faire, or ‘ren faire,’ for the island in a local Facebook group, and was quick to reach out to organizers.
“These kinds of community events align so well with Peoples Bank. We know that what we put into the community we’re going to get back tenfold – a strong community lifts everyone up,” Elka says. “The Whidbey Ren Faire is also being organized by a group of really passionate and invested young people, and I love the energy that comes with being part of something new.”
A “medieval fantasy festival,” the Whidbey Ren Faire will fill the Whidbey Island Fairgrounds & Events Center, May 25 and 26.
In addition to features making the Ren Faire unique to Whidbey – don’t be surprised if you see the splash of a mermaid’s tail, for example – starring attractions include the Seattle Knights, sharing the excitement of live jousting tournaments, where armored knights on horseback clash in a display of skill and bravery.
Co-sponsored by Peoples Bank and Guardian Title, the thrilling spectacle highlights why ren faires are so popular, appealing to the history buff or the adventure-lover in all of us Elka says.
Other highlights include a marketplace, food vendors, live performances, and interactive workshops and demonstrations – yes, you can try your hand at archery and swordplay, or explore period crafts and cooking. A dedicated children’s play area and a quiet space for those needing a sensory break will also be available.
And with period-inspired actors offering roaming – and sometimes unexpected – entertainment, you never know what might happen right in front of you, Elka teases.
Peoples Bank is excited to co-sponsor the Seattle Knights performances at the Whidbey Ren Faire. Visit the Oak Harbor or Coupeville locations to enter to win one of two replica helms. Photo courtesy Peoples Bank
Building community
Beyond bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together in a fun, inclusive experience, major events like the Whidbey Ren Faire raise awareness of the island and offer significant financial benefits, through everything from nights spent in local accommodations to supplies purchased through local retailers. Overall, it’s a great fit for Peoples Bank’s community-minded philosophy.
“At Peoples Bank, we want to be with you when you’re opening that first bank account, to when you start planning for retirement, to when retirement arrives,” Elka reflects. Whether it’s saving for your first home or filling your empty nest with new hobbies like archery and medieval silversmithing, “you’re never too young or too old to tap into your passions.”
Enter to win with Peoples Bank
Other ways to join the Whidbey Ren Faire fun include a special Peoples Bank raffle of two metal helms, inspired by those worn by the knights of yore. Enter to win at the Peoples Bank Oak Harbor and Coupeville branches. Winners will be drawn at the faire.
Learn more about the Whidbey Ren Faire, including volunteer opportunities, at whidbeyislandrenfaire.org. And to learn more about how Peoples Bank can support your dreams, visit peoplesbank-wa.com.
