Tir Righ

What is the SCA?

The Society for Creative Anachronism (or "SCA") is an international not-for-profit educational organization which studies the Middle Ages by re-creating the arts, skills, and traditions of pre-seventeenth century western Europe.

This research and re-creation can take many forms, depending on the member's area of interest. Be it music, dance, costuming, cooking, brewing, combat, archery, games, heraldry, or metalworking; if someone did it during the Middle Ages, chances are someone is doing it in the SCA.

 

How can I join?

First, you need to find the group nearest you. Our Branches page will show which local group (Barony or Shire) is closest to where you live. Contact the Chatelaine of Seneschal of that group, and find out when their next event will be held.

You are also welcome to just show up at any of our events. You are not required to purchase a membership to attend, although there may be an entrance fee to the event itself. You should also make an attempt at some sort of pre-17th century clothing. However, you don't need to stress over this part! It need not be perfect or complicated, and most local groups have an office called "Gold Key", which provides loaner clothing for newcomers.

 

What is an Event?

Events are where we in the SCA put all of our research into action. This is our chance to wear the clothing we've been working on, sing the songs we've been practicing, compete, show-off, share, teach, learn, socialize, and have fun.

SCA events take place almost every weekend of the year. Most will center around a single activity, such as a tournament or feast, while others will feature a vast array of different activities. Twice a year, the Principality gathers for a large tournament to choose the next Prince and Princess. Twice again, we meet to "Invest" the new Prince and Princess (the equivalent to the "Coronation" of a King). The Principality also holds several events dedicated to specific subjects, such as the Bardic and Arts & Sciences Competitions, and an Heraldic & Scribal Symposium.

Local branches in the Principality of Tir Righ hold their own tournaments and events. Check the Calendar for events throughout Tir Righ and An Tir.

There are also two major wars in Tir Righ. Sealion War has been held between the Baronies of Lions Gate and Seagirt for nearly 30 years (although it was called "Bitterwaters War" early on). The Avacal / Tir Righ War (known as "AT War") is fought annually between our Principality and the Principality of Avacal (Parts of Eastern BC, Alberta and Saskatchewan).

There are also many less-formal occasions to get together, at practices and meetings throughout our branches. These can often offer a chance to meet members of the group before an event, and find out more about the branch. Some may offer evenings or weekends dedicated to helping newcomers feel welcome, and learn about our Society.

 

Other Newcomers' Links

Resouces from the SCA website: http://www.sca.org/officers/chatelain/newcomers.html