Asphodel the PR Hobbit writes:
The Long Expected Festival: A Party in the Shire
Members of the Ohio Ring Council Lord of the Rings fan club invite Tolkien fans everywhere to join us for The Long Expected Festival: A Party in the Shire. Scheduled from noon to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 24, the Party in the Shire will give fans a chance to celebrate all things Middle-earth in a truly breathtaking natural setting: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark in Dayton, Ohio. The event is presented free of charge thanks to the generous support of Five Rivers MetroParks. Visit partyintheshire.com for details and directions.
Hobbity fun for all ages!
Explore the formal gardens and woodland paths of Wegerzyn Gardens, transformed for the day into the best-loved locales of Middle-earth.
During the Hobbit Quest scavenger hunt, you’ll be challenged by costumed characters who may—or may not—help you find your way. You can also relax and enjoy live Celtic music, or take a Renaissance dance lesson and learn how to “Toss the Dwarf.” Share a reading of your favorite Tolkien passage, or show off your costuming expertise in our Lord of the Rings costume contest. Enter the raffle for autographed Lord of the Rings merchandise. Visit the Gaming Hall to participate in Lord of the Rings role-playing and card games. Stroll among local artisans to find unique and handmade items, and enjoy tasty treats from a variety of food vendors.
The Party in the Shire is a “rain or shine” event, so please plan for the weather—which can change rapidly in Ohio in September.
Dress the part
Lord of the Rings-inspired costumes are welcome and encouraged! Weapons—including replicas and toys—are prohibited.
Volunteers welcome
Are you a Tolkien fan with a professional-quality Lord of the Rings costume and an outgoing personality? We could use your help in welcoming fans to the Festival and guiding them through “Middle-earth.” Pointy ears and hairy feet are not required, but are encouraged! If you’d like to be a part of the Long Expected Festival: A Party in the Shire, please visit partyintheshire.com and click on Volunteers.
About ORC
Founded to celebrate Trilogy Tuesday in 2003, in just two years we’ve grown to become Ohio’s largest Lord of the Rings fan club. We have over 270 registered members, an extensive website (ohioringcouncil.com) and a host of organized excursions to Tolkien-related events and conventions. Look for us in the Dragon*Con parade!
