FAQ

Is this event open to new-commers or people who are not members of the SCA?

Yes! Anyone interested in history, class topics, or witnessing our championships is encouraged to attend!

Do we need to dress up for this event?

Yes, an attempt at pre-17th century clothing is required. However, we have loaner gear through our Chatelaine's office. Message our Chatelaine or their Gold Key Deputy and inquire about loaner gear in advance. Our loaner wardrobes aren't endless though, so please message early!

Is this like a renaissance fair?

While you might look at our group and think it looks a lot like a renaissance fair, we're focused on a reasonable attempt at historically-informed reenactment. Those who attend are guests themselves, not entertainers.

While you probably won't find fairy wings or elf ears, you will find knights, squires, bards, artisans, and many other people deeply immersed in our own version of historical reenactment.

Is there pre-registration for this event? Can I pre-pay for site fees?

Pre-registration for the event will happen when you pre-register for classes. 

We will not be accepting site fees in advance, please bring cash (exact change appreciated) or cheque on the day-of.

Can I join in on the fighting?

All of our fighters need to have suitable gear in order to participate. We will not have loaner fighting or protective gear available for members of the public at this event.

You can check out more of our fighting options at weekly Fight Practice before or after this event! If it interests you, reach out to one of our martial officers/deputies to learn how to get involved!

Can I come and just watch the fighting?

Weather permitting, we're planning on a few hours of outdoor fighting classes and tournaments. Audience members are welcome to watch outside, but may not cross the barriers set up for everyone's safety. Our marshals may also instruct you to move for your safety.

Will there be a Bardic Circle?

Unfortunately we don't have the space after court, so will not be able to host an evening Bardic Circle. We hope that there will be lots of Bardic-related classes though! 

Can I just attend one class?

Yes! However the gate fee applies no matter how many classes or activities you participate in.

Are there any additional costs?

Each teacher may charge an additional cost for supplies, printed notes, etc. These are usually charged on a cost-recovery basis. Please bring cash, and exact change is appreciated. See the Classes description for each of these costs. 

Is there a host hotel?

No, however information about nearby hotels ca be found on the Venue page.

Is there a Feast?

No, this event does not feature a feast.

Where can I go for dinner nearby?

There is a list of options on the Venue page.

Is there a kitchen where I can store my lunch?

Unfortunately there is no fridge, microwave, etc for use by guests.

Is there an ATM on site? Do merchants take credit cards?

There is no ATM on site. 

Some of our merchants may take credit cards - please see the Activities page for more information about merchants.

I can't attend the event in person, will any of the classes be live-streamed?

If anyone is interested in live-streaming their class with the help of a friend or tripod, we recommend using the Montengarde (unofficial) Discord server. We have not yet set up the technology & volunteer requirements to live-stream on your behalf.

Instructors who are willing to be recorded for the Griffin Eye News, or for their own YouTube (etc) channel should include this when submitting their class.

Do the classrooms have projectors, whiteboards, Smart TVs, etc

All of the classrooms will be shared, so it is not guaranteed that you will have access to display equipment.

The classrooms do have white boards, which should be cleared off after your class if used. The rooms that have screens can be connected to laptops for presentations, however we can not guarantee which rooms these will be in.

We STRONGLY recommend building your classes without relying on A/V technology.

Are youth welcome? Will there be youth-specific classes?

Youth are absolutely welcome at Grand TUA! Youth classes are welcome, however at the time of writing, we just don't know if there will be youth-specific classes. All youth are welcome at all classes along with a responsible adult guardian. 

How do I volunteer to teach a class?

We would love to add your skills to Grand TUA. Please see the link on the Classes page for information or fill out the form here.

How do I volunteer for other aspects of this event? 

To volunteer for a gate shift, contact our Gate Steward 

To volunteer for guard or retinue duty, contact _______

To volunteer as a judge for the Bardic competition, contact champion_of_bardic@avacal.org 

To volunteer as a judge for the A&S competition, contact artsci@avacal.org

For all other volunteer roles, contact the event steward at arts-sciences@montengarde.org  We will need ample short-term help with set up, signage, out-of-town instructor transportation, tear down, etc  on the day of the event. Likewise, we'll need lots of help leading up to the day with things like making Site Tokens, etc.

What does TUA stand for?

TUA stands for The University of Avacal.

Lost & Found

After the event, lost & found will be posted on the Facebook event ONLY (with photos) and will be passed along to Montengarde's Lost & Found deputy. If you're missing something after the event, please contact them.