Elaborate Costumes

To attend the massive medieval campout called the Pennsic War, attendees must dress in pre-16th-century garb. Every Pennsic War starts on the last Saturday in July. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Lords and Ladies

The event is run by the Society For Creative Anachronism, a group so large that it has regional "kings" and "queens," most of whom show up for Pennsic in full regalia, retinue in tow. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

No Hovels Here

Tents and merchant structures at Pennsic are often elaborate and sturdy. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Make Merry

Belly dancing is a popular event at every Pennsic. Attendees can also learn medieval games, cheese making, leatherworking, poetry, embroidery – even apothecary. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

This Means War

The heart of every Pennsic festival is a mock war between kingdoms and their allies. Players who succeed in battles or other event activities earn war points. The kingdom with the most war points wins the war. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

To Arms!

The battle is fought in an area called the "Barony-Marche of the Debatable Lands," otherwise known as Pittsburgh and greater southwestern Pennsylvania. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Nevermind, You Win

Combat and armor is subject to strict inspections and regulations. For the sake of safety, weapons are often solid wood, but tipped with rubber or foam. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

All Men Must Die

Some battles involve war axes or staves ... (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

En Garde!

... while others involve rapier combat. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Ready the Archers

Some Pennsic structures have been built, upgraded and maintained for decades. Some attendees spend all year designing or improving their living quarters in anticipation of the annual event. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Mood Lighting

Like the days of yore, many of Pennsic's nighttime activities are lit by good old fashioned fire. Attendees are told to mind their veils, wizard sleeves and other loose garb. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Little Lords, Little Ladies

Bringing kids to the Pennsic Wars is encouraged ... (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Playing Dress-Up

... as long as they, too, dress in period garb. (Photo by David Gornstein)

Medieval World

Medieval costumes and character inspirations are not limited to Europe. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Bring the Hammer

Old-school blacksmithing is very much alive and well during the Pennsic War. But the weapons on the mock battlefield must be made of wood. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Period Pieces

Pennsic attendees take their medieval garb seriously. Many make their own clothes just for the event. Some sew only by hand. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Braid, Milady?

Another Pennsic War side activity: Getting your hair braided, old-school style. (Photo by David Gornstein)

Stake Your Claim

The Pennsic War grounds are dotted with privately-run, medieval-themed camps. Some tents are rented; others are hand-sewn, along with the official flags or banners of the camp. Camp names (such as Aerie of Tir Thalor or Fool's Rest) are chosen by the occupants. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Raise Your Banners

The official banner of Camp Seven Deadly Sins, as shown by a young member of that camp. (Photo by David Gornstein)

Ye Olde Shopping Basket

Pennsic War campers don't just live medieval. They shop medieval. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)

Here There Be Dragons

The Pennsic Wars include medieval-themed parties every night ... but the volunteer-run event enforces "quiet hours" between 2 a.m. and 7 a.m. (Photo by: Ron Lutz II, http://www.ronlutzii-photographer.com)