After a visit about 6 weeks ago, I shared an article about ‘What to know before you go to Kings Landing‘.  We were back today to celebrate the Agricultural Fair in the village, as well as join in the Harvest Home Feast at the King’s Head Inn.  From playing checkers at the Grant Store to a meal shared at the communal harvest table, the Henderson’s enjoyed (and participated) in every minute.

This morning, the kids had ballet and ringette, but shortly after 12:30 pm we were on the road to Kings Landing.  Our last adventure we spent the day, but I wanted to know if it would still be worth it, if we made it only for the afternoon.  After I surveyed the team on the drive home, they all named numerous parts of the afternoon that were their favorite.  So, if you can only allocate a portion of the day to going back to the 1800’s, it’s still well worth your time (and money).

Here are highlights from my family after they participated in my drive home survey.   I asked, “What was your favorite part of the day?”  Their responses included:

Abby | 

“I loved the church.  It was so beautiful.  I also liked the horsey ride (horse and wagon) because that was really fun.  I also liked the lady who was knitting.  She was really nice.”

When you are five, it’s nice to be able to go somewhere and just go in and out of places as you please, and that really is a highlight of Kings Landing.  Among other things, the kids went to the school, played checkers at the general store, and helped to spin yarn. Everywhere they went, they never hesitated to participate.  They felt like it was their village, and were always greeted warmly wherever they went.

Sydney |

“I loved the food at the meal.  There were so many choices and I got to try to some new things.  I also liked the games in the field because it was different, like when we raced as to who could pin the most clothes on the clothesline.  I also really liked the mill…it was really cool.”

As an eight-year-old, Sydney is looking for things that are an experience.  Something that’s different from the every day, and Kings Landing has that in spades.  And, Sydney really just likes spending time with us, so the Agricultural Fair allowed us to play lots of games as a family. Jamie and I even raced as to who could peel an apple the fastest…and I let Jamie win!

Jamie | 

“I thought the print shop was a highlight.  The gentleman at the shop was great, and I liked that he printed bookmarks for the kids.  That was a nice touch.  And, to be honest, the wagon rides are great because the drivers make the experience authentic.  I talked to one guy a bit, and he told me about his life in the village; he was really genuine.”

The villagers were really on point.  It takes a lot of moving parts to create an authentic experience, and the team at Kings Landing knocked it out of the park today.

Me |

 “When we first walked in, there was music coming from the Summer Stage, and it offered a wonderful atmosphere.  Then as we continued, there was a gentleman playing a guitar and singing, and the kids loved him.  He also played during the Harvest Home meal, and the kids really enjoyed singing along with him.  He was a gem, and added a special touch to the afternoon.”

As someone who grew up going to Kings Landing in the summer with my grandparents, I have a special place in my heart for this village.  Today I truly felt like I was 10 again as we visited all the houses that I visited as a child.   And, I think if I would have asked the hundreds of other people that were there today, I know they would have said that it was a perfect day for them as well.

I know that this article will be featured on our local Mom Talk NB, and I wanted to bring awareness to two moms who were doing it right today.  They both had on their sneakers, exercise pants and comfy shirts, and were pushing their wee babes in strollers like champs.  I saw them all over the village going in and out of houses and walking here, there and everywhere; getting exercise and enjoying each others company.   I didn’t want to intrude, but at one point I heard them say, “This was a great idea to bring the babies here.  Great way to spend the day.” I couldn’t agree more.   Beautiful scenery, interesting things to see and do, opportunities to slow down and enjoy every moment.

I would definitely put Kings Landing on your list of things to do.  The upcoming Thanksgiving weekend is packed (and I mean packed) with activities, so if you’re going to try to get to the 1800’s this season, the long weekend would definitely be the right time to do it.  

Enjoy!

Beth

 

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