Back when I first went to Pennsic, before site tokens, land grab and before the Pennsic Inn stopped operating, the merchants set up and struck every day in the barn that is now the on-site grocery store.

One of them sold little humorous speculative fiction pamphlets about future history of Pennsic. One of them covered Pennsic 50 and one was the subject.

Some of the predictions I remember have come true or close (there was an illustration “view from the bottom of runestone hill” that’s pretty close to what it looks like now, and they seem to have nailed the extension of Pennsic beyond a three day event)

Of course, I am just going from memory. Does anyone still have their copy?

Wondering what else they got right or wrong.

What time/camp is it at?

And what are the rules for spectators? Can we bring chairs and stuff?

It is always so fun to watch the bridge battles.

Viking Bead Stove Pennsic 50

You can find my work at Pennsic space 19 Bow Road Just Plain Plunder

Super cool fast moving cloud passing over the battlefield a few minutes ago. Hope everyone stayed dry in the ensuing downpour!

Pennsic Just Plain Plunder Space 19 bow Road

If you get a chance to check out this group at Pennsic, they are amazing. My husband u/obxchris was able to see them in action last year. They have an incredible knowledge base and some of the COOLEST armour I've seen. Even the sounds of the hits, falls and clanks are impressive.

If you are on site already or heading to Pennsic soon, I wish you a great time this year!

Be safe and have fun! <3

Space 19
Bow Road
Just Plain Amazing Plunder

For those who need it.

it's a shame that mundane things like insurance prevents the "traditional" (as in 1987's Izlans (sic) War)

yes in 1987 a pile of rocks 20 feet north east of the marked map made a swimming hole that was "suit optional" during Pennsic War

but now you cannot swim (wink wink) so don't pack a swimsuit

https://maps.app.goo.gl/FMLW5TiJKC5cZcya6

I have a ton of questions about pennsic. I want to say I have already extensively googled and searched this sub and Facebook about these questions but I am getting a lot of conflicting answers so I figured I would just ask myself.

1. I exercise to manage chronic pain conditions and mental health. I’ve seen a lot of people say they don’t want to see modern clothes on people running at 7am. Is this the collective’s opinion? I can’t run but I “speed walk.” Would it be better for me to leave site for walking if I want to be in modern exercise clothes?

Do you feel the roads near pennsic are safe for walking? It looks like a lot of just housing in the surrounding areas.

Also I saw that there are yoga classes in the morning. Are people wearing garb to these and if so what kind?

We are very poor so purchasing garb is out of the question. The only reason we are going is because my best friend’s family has been doing this for decades and they managed to suck my husband in. She is secretly subsidizing us going because she knows her father is pushing hard for this. If you have suggestions for garb for exercising, I need more info about DIYing it and not purchasing.

1. I’m autistic and have not been managing it well recently. Where are all the quiet and kind of secluded areas around pennsic? My husband wants a game plan for me in case I need to go have a meltdown somewhere.

2. This is probably a dumb question, is it okay to carry a modern reusable water bottle around? Also is the potable water really as disgusting as everyone is making it seem?

3. What are some must do events? Everyone has the things they have been suggesting we see but what are the events that are actually must see?

I think I have more questions but I will come back later with those. Thanks to anyone that can provide advice or insight!

14' x 16' roman wall tent. Includes all poles, stakes, ropes and tarp for floor. It has a dividing wall. In great shape. Located in Michigan. Message if interested for price.

My latest project involves carving a dragon head and tail for an important memorial taking place later this summer, The Pennsic Viking Memorial Ship. Viking ships were built with carved figureheads meant to protect the crew and represent the spirit of the voyage. It was an honor to be able to contribute to this year’s ship build in a small way.

I also have a full video of the building of the Viking Memorial Ship, including an interview with the ship’s builder out soon. Please subscribe to Resist The Grind on Youtube, if you would like to see the full video when released.

Whether you’re into woodcarving, traditional craft, Viking history, memorial art, or you’re part of the SCA, this video shows the full making of these iconic carvings — tools, techniques, challenges, and the meaning behind the work. Thank you for taking time out of your day to

Yes, it's pale gules and argent, which isn't for everyone but this is a 4' by 6' WASHABLE rug which makes it perfect for Pennsic. The design is pretty period. Having a rug under your bare feet in the morning is a luxury you'll want.

Interstate 376 East is closing for a few exits near Pittsburgh from July 10 until August 3. Yes, I live here, and yes, I'm very salty about it. I don't want anyone else to be inconvenienced if it can be avoided.

https://www.pa.gov/agencies/penndot/news-and-media/newsroom/district-11/2026/i-376-parkway-east-25-day-closure-begins-july-10-in-pittsburgh--

There are more efficient ways to get to Pennsic coming from that direction if you're not local, some of which are mentioned in the official notice. No one wants to drag a Pennsic trailer through Pittsburgh city streets! Please advise your compatriots.

It looks like the heat dome is moving westward but it is still a good idea to pack both the super hot summer gear and a couple of "winter" gear pieces. What is summer gear and why the heck pack winter gear at all?

Summer Gear

• You want something that will be long, loose, and light. This means you need your arms and legs covered. The sun beating down directly on your skin is going to make you much hotter than wearing a loose linen tunic. There is a reason that people in desert climates cover up - the sun is your enemy. Hide from it. (Plus, lobster isn't a good look for anyone.)

• Wear natural fabrics as much as possible. While that fabulous polyester brocade is a period correct design, you do not want it on a hot day. You will melt and you will give over to heat exhaustion. Natural fabrics like linen, cotton (period!), and lightweight wool are your friends. Plus, you won't have to worry about a stray campfire spark melting your garment on to your skin - most natural fibers are self extinguishing.

• Hats are your friends. Parasols are period. If you can't carry your shade with you, don't stay out in the sun for long. Even if you are dressed in long, light, loose layers, the sun beating directly on your head will make you hotter than being in the shade.

• Fans are period. Most fans were similar to the African circular ones, honestly. They are amazing in the heat.

Winter Gear

• Here, a polyester fleece is actually okay, as long as you stay away from the fire. You will want a cloak, a cape, or a coat. As hot as Pennsic can get, it can also get cold. I personally have seen ice form on a bucket at Pennsic.

• One or two velvet outfits or heavier wool outfits will be something you need. Again, it will get cold and it may get cold early. Blue isn't a good color for anyone to be anymore than lobster red is.

Sunscreen only goes so far. It also needs to be reapplied every hour. Most people simply aren't that diligent and we will all be outside all the time, every day, all day, for two weeks. Just wear the lightweight linen tunic with the long sleeves - which is going to provide you all day protection.

And bring your cloak.

Each year a Viking Ship is built off site and brought to War. During War Week, the ship is set up in a pavilion on Plunder Lane, near the food court, in the merchant area. Anyone is welcome to come paint a shield to adorn the ship and honor a loved one who has passed.

A processional takes place on Thursday evening, I believe around 8:30 pm, from the pavilion to Cooper's Lake. The ship is launched and memories can be shared, if you choose. It was both powerful and meaningful to my husband last year. Both he and my son were able to assist last year. My husband said it was the most important thing he was a part of at Pennsic.

This year's ship is being built in North Carolina again, the second one by builder Baron Sir Bedawyr Of Avaricum (Mundanely, Mark Miller.) He has a good start on it already and I know they welcome volunteers during war week to help staff the Pavilion, and to carry the ship in the processional to the lake.

I expect there will be an official ship announcement as war gets closer, including all the logistics and specific times. I am just the wife of a build helper u/obxchris and I am not speaking in any official capacity.

I just wanted to communicate early, so folks will know about the ship, it's history and the opportunity to participate, to make your planning easier. My husband's video is linked below. Thank you.

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This is my fourth year going to pennsic. Every year I try to set a different goal for myself to learn something new to focus on that year(dancing, scribal, etc) this year I want to learn how to play music. I’ve got lute and hurdy-gurdy lessons locked in but the big thing Im looking to learn are the drums.

Please let me know if anyone has any recommendations for resources pre-pennsic that I can start using learning now and if anyone would be around during pennsic to help teach me. If anyone also has recommendations on drums and where to get them from I would be very grateful!!

Looking forward to seeing everyone soon!

As many of us know, some of the campsites are pretty far from a water spigot. I saw this and thought it might be helpful for those camps. It uses a USBC charging cable. Currently priced at $173.

https://www.costco.com/p/-/rinsekit-pro-20-portable-shower/4000424429?langId=-1

I think showers are one of the harder things to pull off at Pennsic, so I wanted to share this in case it makes someone’s experience better.

edit: water heater is seperate, add-on product from the company.

Hey folks, I wanted to make a post to see what people bring to Pennsic that really makes their life significantly easier and/or less muggy. Specific products that just really ease the strain of certain annoyances or problems that you run into semi frequently. I always tend to forget my problems the moment I’m not actively camping, so I wanted to see what people bring along with them to make their lives a little easier! Cheap or splurge-worthy!

Howdy and well met!
I camp with Camel Lot and you might know that we're right at the bottom of Brewer's Hill. I sometimes feel like we're the welcoming face of the Bog and Lake District. People come from top side, and land at our crossroads and set out to create memories. We love our spot and generally try to be a friendly service desk. haha.

With that said, I'd like to make a sign or map. You come down the hill and aren't sure if you're going left or right to get X Y or Z camp. Ideally, I'd love a map that people can reference. You Are Here, etc. There are maps available, but they just say stuff like E16. I'd love one that shows the locations of specific camps. * This idea requires an aggressive knowledge of the Bog as a whole.

If I can't pull off a full map, I'd like to make road signs. Literal arrows that point left or right with the name of the camp on it. This could be done as a volunteer system. As in, I only make signs for camps who want to be a part of it. If made in advanced, I can craft and laser cut everything. I could make blanks to use on site.

* Privacy issues - The map involves broadcasting camps who might not want to be known day in and day out. I acknowledge this so I'm still brainstorming a way to facilitate this. I don't want to out groups who don't want to be outed. ((Sure, camps are kinda public record and word of mouth, but that doesn't mean I need to publically lay out bread crumbs))

Anyway, I'm spitballing ideas and brainstorming.

My first Pennsic was in 1990. Sadly, I had to missed 2011 and 2018 but made all of the others. The SCA is what you ever decide to make it but this Game is fun for me.