Well, we were discussing the idea of the "Day of Wrong" at MDRF. I haven't participated in it in several years. But I was thinking I might pull out one of my old surcoats and go for it this coming weekend. But I'm having second thoughts.
It started out cute, but people take it too far these days. For those who aren't around here, this is a tradition that started over a decade ago, that on the closing day of faire, people would wear something "wrong" with their garb. Like a doublet made with tie-die fabric. Basically normal garb but with something amiss, like a color or fabric choice, or wearing something additional that's out of place.
When I participated, I made some ridiculous surcoats for the armor. The one everyone thought was hilarious was the flannel teddy-bear pattern I used. Everyone started calling me "Sir Ted of the Order of Saint Theodore"...
Here's a photo:
... Anyway. Like I said, I haven't participated in several years, because people have gone overboard, dressing up as Disney characters, weird combinations of costumes that mix superheros with cross-dressing, etc. Not to mention the BDSM stuff, or all the cheap halloween costumes. Oh, and the "furries" make a big appearance too, usually.
One of our friends found this and posted it on facebook, and now I'm thinking I may just wear my normal colors this coming weekend instead of the teddy bears:
"We came to the festival the first time on the last day and it was disapointing to see the odd costumes. Our kids were excited about going to a Renaissance Festival and could not understand the Star Wars character and some guy dressed as Tigger. We were told at the tavern that it is something the "regulars" do. Shame that some people think this is their personal party. Those of us who love the show the SHOW puts on don't come the last weekend."
After quoting the above, she went on to say the following, and I have to agree:
i overheard this exact conversation between two patrons this weekend. the guy said to his friend, "last year we came and all these people were dressed up in halloween costumes. it was terrible! we're not coming next weekend. this is our last day we'll get to come this year."
the point of DOW is that, yes, it is an "fun insider thing." the insider regular crowd at MDRF is part of the ambiance of faire. it always has been. i know this cuz that was me and millions of regular insiders are still my friends!
but the WHOLE point of DOW is that the "outsiders" aren't supposed to notice the "fun insider thing." it's for insiders to look at each other and point and laugh. not for outsiders to pay attention to the insiders in lieu of enjoying their day at the renaissance festival at best, and worse, avoid the festival altogether because of the growing reputation.
and that's what's wrong with DOW. it's all gone Wrong. when people AVOID THE FAIRE because of an inside joke it's not funny anymore. it's wrong.
I really enjoy when the kids are just blown away by getting to meet a knight. Somehow that feels like it might get cheapened if I participate in the Day of Wrong. I think we just need to say "no" at this point.
