Annual Medieval Carnivale back in full swing for 2023 in Balingup

The 2023 Balingup Medieval Carnivale had history enthusiasts, role-playing fans and those wanting an escape to dress up and enjoy a medieval fantasy all flocking to Balingup over the weekend for two days of activities, food stalls and sword fights. The Medieval Carnivale was crowded during the weekend, with more than 10,000 people attending the two day event as the festival went into full swing after the COVID-19 pandemic halted the 2020 event, and caused restrictions and a slow progression in capacity and activities for the 2021 and 2022 Carnivales. Events throughout Saturday included the Parade March, which was followed by the King’s Speech and the Maypole Dance, and the Burning of the Dragon, which included performances from the Wasamba Carnival Drummers and the Pyro Panthers — who provided fire entertainment — before the story of Fireblight the Dragon was told and the paper-maiche dragon was torched. Both days consisted of performances from several musicians and groups — including the Shakti Temple dancers, Sisters of Corn, and the Jarrah Celts, sword fights from the Grey Company and Free Company, plays put on by the Pyro Panthers, and stalls full of wares and food for passersby to enjoy. A Carnivale Feast was held on Friday night, prior to the two days, with tickets selling out quickly, and attendees enjoying a night full of food, drinks and entertainment including storytellers and musicians, in the tradition of medieval feasts. Combat shows were constantly on for entertained audiences, near the Knights Field at the Arena, while on the Brockman Field, both adults and children could take up some medieval shooting at the Archery Range. Balingup Medieval Carnivale committee president Fran Wilshusen previously stated that the 2023 Carnivale was anticipated to be the biggest turnout for the festival. “I anticipate from the interest shown in this year’s events that this will be the biggest turnout or equal our previous biggest turnout,” she said. “It’s awesome, people are going to dress up, be immersed in the weekend, and it’s going to be as awesome as ever.” She also said the committee was more well-equipped and prepared for the crowds, especially after the event’s hiatus and downsizing due to the COVID pandemic in previous years. “We didn’t expect it to be as busy as last year after COVID, but we are anticipating a big crowd and are ready for them,” she said prior to the weekend.