What to take to Pennsic War
With pre-registration closing, everyone is thinking about what to take to Pennsic. Pennsic war is the largest event that the Society for Creative Anachronism hosts every year. There are usually between 10,000 and 12,000 people in recent years. It is hosted at Cooper’s Lake Campground in Western Pennsylvania. Pennsic’s official rules for 2018 can be found here. There are some things you are not allowed to bring such as fireworks, firearms, or chemical weapons. If you have anything that may be questionable, be sure to read the complete rule book. Pennsic lasts for two weeks, usually the first two weeks in August. The weather can vary drastically in this time frame. The average high temperature is probably between 75 and 80 degrees F. The low can be down to about 50 degrees F and the high in recent years was over 100 when they called off all martial activities due to oppressive heat. It is almost guaranteed to rain at least once while you are there. Keep Pennsylvania’s mood swings in mind when you pack for Pennsic.
You will walk more at Pennsic that you usually do. I think I had 36,000 steps one day. There are so many different things to see and do. You may have some perfectly period shoes or sandals, but you will be outside in the Pennsylvania woods. There may be mosquitoes, stinging nettle, poison ivy, spiders or ticks. You can definitely bring your awesome sandals or shoes that may not be as comfortable, but please be sure to pack the waterproof walking shoes or boots as well.
This is not an absolutely complete list, but it should help you to think about things you may need. Some of your requirements will change based on the activities you are doing while you are there or the people you are camping with. Some classes have extra material requirements as well. This list is meant to include things that you will probably need or want if you are camping on your own and you are planning on cooking. I did not list things you will need for your martial activities since that list will vary so much from one person to the next. I personally need to bring my throwing axes, knives, recurve bow, arrows, arm guard, fingertips, sword, shield, helmet, fighting boots and my armor bag. Don’t forget to add your stuff for your other activities to the back of the sheet.
Some areas at Pennsic have different rules due to safety concerns, such as a gas line that runs under some of the camp sites. Most places you can dig a fire pit, but if you do not know where you are staying until you get there, you may want to bring a fire pit that stands off the ground. Pennsic has space concerns. Each person is meant to receive 250 sq ft. of campable land. Campable land is considered land that does not have trees and plants growing on it, and is not on a slope. If you your tent is too large, you may not have space to set up your 10×10. You may also find yourself against a treeline or a slope, which may give you extra space you can use without taking up anyone else’s campable land.
It is quite possible to attend the event and not need any of the kitchen equipment I listed. Pennsic always has a variety of food vendors. There are several camps who intend to feed the masses such as Ansteorra’s famous chili night, or other kingdom or barony specific events. In 2017, there was a Known World Party on the battlefield. You could choose to only bring pre-cooked meals or sandwiches. You may have neighbors who don’t mind sharing their cooking equipment either.
Just like all other SCA activities, Pennsic has an expectation of a reasonable attempt. There are hundreds of people who do not bring period tents or day shades. We currently camp in a modern tent. If you’re driving several states to come to Pennsic and packing the mundane tent is easier, go for it!
If you have more questions about Pennsic, I suggest finding the group page on Facebook, commenting on this post or reaching out to your local group. You’re also welcome to contact me directly and I will be glad to share my knowledge or help you get in touch with someone close to you. Here is a printable and downloadable pdf of my pack list. Have fun in your adventure, and remember to hydrate!
