What is a "Vincennes Rendezvous"? Only the coolest colonial fair EVER.

I'm still surprised when I mention the Rendezvous to people in Evansville and they have no idea what I'm talking about. Vincennes has been doing this for 42 years, and you've never even HEARD about it? You are missing out!

I go every year and have a blast (literally and metaphorically).

It's like a Renaissance Fair, but Colonial. So a Colonial Fair.

Chynna Hall
Chynna Hall
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There are colonial reenacters, colonial goods you can buy, pelts, toys, clothes, jewelry, wood carvings, metal works, and FOOD. GOOD LORD THE FOOD. It's SO GOOD. Brats. Burgers. Beignets. Turkey legs...My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

There are also musical performers, storytellers, and jugglers.

The Amazing Budabi Brothers are one of my favorite parts of the Rendezvous every year. Well, that and the beignets.

Chynna Hall
Chynna Hall
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They juggle a lot of things. Sometimes they're sharp. Sometimes they're on fire. And sometimes they ask a volunteer from the audience to stand in between them while they juggle these sharp firey things back and forth. Is it safe? I have no idea. Is it fun? Oh hell yes.

And of course: battle re-enactments!

Chynna Hall
Chynna Hall
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My favorite reenactment will always be the one I saw 3 years ago. A man from the Scottish battalion "died" on the field. But it was a windy day. And he was in full Scottish garb...as in NOTHING on underneath that kilt. And when he died he went forward, landing on his stomach. So he went down, and his kilt went up, thanks to the wind. Just baring it all to the spectators in the stands AKA: THE LARGE GROUP OF CHILDREN HE HAD FALLEN IN FRONT OF. And he was in character, dead, and couldn't move. So he just laid there for what felt like forever with these kids pointing and laughing at his bare butt.

And while that is not a common occurrance, and probably embarrassing for the reenacter, I just gotta say: You brought me so much joy that day. And to a lot of kids as well. Thank you.

So come on out and enjoy fun, food, and festivities this Saturday and Sunday at the George Rogers Clark National Historic Park (401 South 2nd Street, Vincennes, IN, 47591)

Saturday 9a-6p
Battles at 1p and 4p

Sunday 10a-5p
Battles at 12p and 3:30p

(REMEMBER: Vincennes is an hour AHEAD of Evansville)

Adults $10
Kids 6-12 $2
Kids 5 and under FREE
Parking $3

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