30th Balfar’s Challenge

30th Balfar’s Challenge Now with Roses Rapier and Rattan

April 18th, 2026

Event Details

Balfar’s Challenge is turning 30 this year.  30 years of issuing the challenge across the land.  30 years of fighting, fencing, throwing, shooting and Feasting!!

Duke Balfar von Grunwald once again issues the challenge for you to bring your prowess to the field and display your martial skills before the crowds.  You are challenged to compete in Heavy List, Fencing, Archery or Thrown Weapons. 

This year the Roses will be in bloom at Balfar’s Challenge.  We are proud to host the Roses Rapier and Rattan Tournaments.  Teams of 4 fencers and teams of 4 fighters will be fielded by each Rose. 

We invite you to come spend the day as we FIGHT, FENCE, THROW, SHOOT, SHOP, EAT, and ENJOY EACH OTHER’S COMPANY. 

Balfar’s Challenge rules
Contestants will form teams of three.  Three Fighters, three Fencers, three Archers or three Throwers.  There is a limit of no more than one martial peer or order of high merit per team.  Teams must have names and we look forward to your boundless wit and dad jokes.  (Balfar will be reading names in court – be wary). 

HERALDIC CHALLENGE
Once again, Baron Agapios Cargos is issuing a heraldic challenge.  Make something with your heraldry on it, displayed with a photo of your device/badge.  Winners will be selected in the three categories:  use of arms, complexity of item, and overall favorite. 
Contact Baron Agapios at 214818@members.eastkingdom.org with any questions

Balfar’s Beautification project:

Jim Vincent is taking on the task of decorating the indoor space with all manner of banners and heraldry. If you have items to contribute or wish to help please contact Jim at 51161@members.eastkingdom.org

Balfar’s Challenge Arts Forum

Mistress Eilis ni Bhraonain welcomes all …

Artisans of all disciplines are warmly invited to gather and share their work, inspired by the rich traditions of the past. This is not a competition, but a celebration of creativity—featuring completed pieces, works in progress, and even those challenging projects in need of fresh perspective.

From calligraphy and illumination to metalwork, textiles, and beyond, all historical arts are welcome. Join fellow enthusiasts for a day of learning, collaboration, and camaraderie as we bring history to life through our craft.

Site Opens: 9am
Site Closes: 7pm

Questions in regards to Marshal Activities will go to:

Event Schedule

Any assistance in clean-up before close of site will be cheerfully accepted.

Travel home safe – Thank you for coming.

Warlord Tourney Rules
  • 3 person teams
  • must have 1 great weapon
  • Teams cannot have more than one chiv
  • Following the Warlord tournament the field will be open for pickup fights and training.
Notes about the site

 This is an outdoor event, there is 1 covered pavilion with walls for day board with picnic tables.  There are 2 Pole Barns (open sided pavilions).  Some tables will be spaced outside for use.  DO NOT remove tables from the hall or relocate tables without permission from the Event Steward.  Any moved tables must be replaced by the end of the event.  

Event attendees are HIGHLY encouraged to bring their own pavilions/day shades and chairs. 

Site is DISCREETLY DAMP.  

Dogs are welcome BUT must be leashed/contained/attended at all times and well behaved. You must clean up after your pet. 

Site Opens: GATE OPENS AT 9 (** 8 for STAFF ONLY **)
Site Closes: 7pm

Registration Fees

Registration:
Adult Non-Member- Pre-Reg- $36, At Gate- $40
Adult Member – Pre-Reg $26, At Gate – $30
Children 10-17 – $20
Young Children 0-9 – free
Family Cap – $80

Pay Pal Link
https://surveys.eastkingdom.org/index.php/184128?lang=en

April 14, 2026 is the final date for PayPal pre-registration.

A PayPal invoice will be generated within 24 to 48 hours of the online pre-registration survey being submitted.  Online pre-registration is not complete until the PayPal invoice has been paid.

This survey does ask for membership information but you will still need to provide proof of membership at the event. 

Checks can be sent to:
Ann Straut
12 Liberty Street
Apt.  B
Southington, CT 06489

Please include
mundane name,
SCA name and age range for each person registering
an email address for confirmation.

Make Checks Payable to: The Barony of Dragonship Haven

Feast:
No feast.  Running day board opens APPROX at Noon and will run until APPROX 4 pm.  Any dietary concerns may be directed to Master Jaji at chefjaji@yahoo.com.  Help is always welcome. 

Contact Information

Event Steward:  Pan Casimir Sarkastyczny (Michael Bourdeau)
203-915-0764
Email:  70767@members.eastkingdom.org

Merchants are actively encouraged!!  Please come sell your wares!
Merchants should contact Master Llewellyn Walsh at 207753@members.eastkingdom.org

Merchant should fill out the from found at Balfar’s Merchant form

Balfar’s Beautification Help Contact Jim Vincent at 51161@members.eastkingdom.org