Longstanding Tradition Brings a Day of Joy, Entertainment and Giving to
Women and Families Living in Local Shelters
HOLLY, Mich. — For 25 years, members of the Michigan Renaissance Festival have carried the spirit of the
Festival beyond the gates of Hollygrove and into the Flint community, creating unforgettable days of fun for
women, children and families staying in local shelters.
The tradition began when a group of Michigan Renaissance Festival participants, led by Danielle Dupont of the
Washing Well Wenches, visited two women and family shelters in Flint with one simple goal: bring the Festival
to families who could use a joyful day.
What began as a heartfelt act of kindness has grown into a beloved annual tradition that continues a quartercentury
later. Each summer, Festival performers, artists and volunteers transform the shelters into their own
miniature Renaissance Festival celebration. Henna artists, face painters, musicians, jugglers, magicians, balloon
artists, massage therapists and even amateur pedicurists volunteer their time and talents. And, of course, no
celebration would be complete without plenty of pizza.
Approximately 15 years ago, Michigan Renaissance Festival management expanded its involvement, creating
an additional opportunity for shelter residents to experience the Festival itself. Each year, a special day is selected
to welcome participating families to Hollygrove, with the Festival providing complimentary admission,
activities, games and a catered lunch.
The generosity extends throughout the Renaissance Festival community and beyond. Independent artisans and
crafters also participate, donating special gifts for the families, including handcrafted hair garlands, painted
shields, jewelry, candles, soaps, incense and other treasures from the realm. One of the sponsors of the
Renaissance Festival, Timber covered the transportation cost for the day.
For Dupont, the reason the tradition has endured for 25 years is beautifully simple.
“It’s the perfect fit. We at the Renaissance are in the business of providing fun, and the people at
the shelters are in the place of needing a really good day of fun! It’s a match made in heaven!”
said Dupont.
For the Michigan Renaissance Festival community, the annual tradition is about more than providing a day away.
It is an opportunity to share laughter, creativity, generosity and a little Renaissance magic with families facing
difficult circumstances.
Twenty-five years after that first visit, performers, artisans, volunteers and Festival management continue to come
together each summer, proving that some of the most meaningful magic created by the Michigan Renaissance
Festival happens far beyond the Festival gates.
