The 2018 Melbourne Midsummer Faerie Rade

My Dark Mermaid Faerie Costume
Wow, where do I begin? First off happy 2018 everyone! I hope the year has been treating you well thus-far. As part of my new years resolution to get out and about and do more for myself I attended the annual Melbourne Midsummer Faerie Rade. What is the Faerie Rade you ask? It's a gathering of faerie folk in Melbourne hosted by Golden Owl Events where we dress up in our faerie gear for a stroll around Melbourne city before sitting down to a picnic in the afternoon. It was a brilliant, fun day out and best of all it was FREE!

Having never been before or knowing anyone who goes, I scrolled through the Facebook events page and found a few ladies who are also going solo and we decided to meet in the city and go together. The page was very handy in giving us a timeline as well as a map. Even though the event said "kid friendly" I decided to leave my kids at home as I really wanted a day out to myself. I also read on the page that there would be photographers attending, ready and willing to take photos of awesome costumes. I planned my outfit, decked myself out and off I went.

Arriving at the treasury gardens the promise of awesome costumes did not disappoint! Everybody looked absolutely amazing. The outfits varied from simple to film worthy extravagance, but nobody looked out of place. There were orcs, wizards and elves of all ages. There was even a dog dressed as a dragon! Upon arrival I was instantly swamped by photographers, it was a little intense as I hadn't had to pose for so many people taking my photo at once. Trying to stare down the camera in my dark mermaid get up while I was trying not to giggle proved difficult at first. But I soon got used to it. There were bag minders at the base site to look after picnic bags while the march went on.

The day had a very relaxed, yet organised feel to it, you could stay at the base site or go for a walk. You didn't need to walk with the main group, I was at the tail end of the march and still had a great time, great for people who get anxious in crowds or have prams and need more space. I was asked by many people along the way what was going on, some were even following us to see where we were going! I was asked by many people on the street if they could have a photo taken with me (or their kids) it was truly an amazing feeling. We were also encouraged to create "fancys" or small fearie-like gifts to hand out to strangers as we walked. I bought some plush toys that I had on hand from my old toy making days.

Once everyone was back from the march, we headed on over to the picnic ground (also in the gardens) and set up camp, this was where most of the photo opportunities happened. By this stage I was much more comfortable and "in character" and was more relaxed. I even got some photos with some of the other Fae Folk and took some photos of my own. I also had the opportunity to really have a look around at who was attending. Many many families with young children, their mums in full get up and the dads in casual gear with a pair of kids wings, it was a lovely sight, my husband and I have agreed to take the kids next year as our daughter would have loved it! But I wouldn't take her on my own as it would limit my ability to be in photo shoots and talk with new people.

Towards the end the raffle was drawn, the prizes were donated and amazing! With all profits going towards the running of the event. Next year I hope to donate something.












On the whole I would say it was a wonderful magical day for families, Fae and cosplay enthusiasts, there was something in it for everyone and the atmosphere was divine. I highly recommend for families looking for a fun and free day out, and for models and photographers to get a chance to meet and create some amazing art. I know I'll be adding this to my annual events calendar!

Next week I will be posting a full article on the making of my Dark Mermaid Faerie cosplay so stay tuned! -Sami

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