GENERAL QUESTIONS:
What is The Brandywine Festival?
The Brandywine Festival is the first and only official Middle-earth LARP Event, presented by Middle-earth Adventures, licensed and developed through Middle-earth Enterprises. It focuses on bringing players into Middle-earth to experience a time and place in The Shire like no other, and offer the opportunities to Drink, Dance, Dine, Discover as a Hobbit.
When is The Brandywine Festival?
Oct 7th to the 12th, 2025.
What kind of LARP Event is it?
The Brandywine Festival could be described with a few simple terms:
- Cozy and Atmospheric
- Full of Mischief to be found
- Low to Medium stakes
- No to Low Violence
- No Player Combat
- Player vs Environment
What kind of Event is it not?
- A Combat LARP Event
- A Rennaisance Festival
- A Cosplay Event
- Player vs Player
Is this LARP right for me?
This is always a subjective question, but if you can imagine yourself as a Hobbit of The Shire, then it's most likely right for you!
🎟️ TICKETS & REFUNDS
❓ How do I get tickets?
🎟️ Tickets will be available exclusively through our Kickstarter campaign. Once funded, we’ll send out surveys to confirm details like camping preferences and add-ons.
❓ Can I buy tickets at the door?
🚪 No, this is a pre-registered event only. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
❓ Are tickets refundable?
🔄 Tickets are non-refundable, but they can be transferred to another attendee or used for future events. If you need to transfer your ticket, contact us at support@burgschneider.com.
❓ Do I have to attend all five days?
⏳ Not at all! While we encourage full participation, you can arrive and leave when you’d like. Keep in mind that traffic onto the site is restricted to emergency vehicles only, during in-game time.
❓What if I’ve become sick right before the event?
🔄Please do not attend if you are ill. Contact us if you’re not able to attend, and we will discuss options.
💰 REWARDS & KICKSTARTER INFO
❓ What do Kickstarter backers get?
🎁 Exclusive rewards like early access to the Discord, custom quests, and limited-edition event souvenirs.
❓ What happens if the Kickstarter doesn’t get fully funded?
❌ If we don’t reach our goal, no one will be charged, and the event won’t happen. But we’re confident we’ll make it with your help!
GENERAL EVENT QUESTIONS
❓ Who is running this event?
👥 This event is hosted by Burgschneider.
❓ Is this an official The Lord of the Rings event?
🛑 Yes, this event is an officially licensed Middle-earth Enterprises event.
❓ Can I come just to watch?
👀 No, this is a fully immersive experience, so all attendees must participate. Even if you don’t want to be a "main character," you’ll still be a part of the world!
📍 LOCATION & LOGISTICS
❓ Where is the event located?
🗺️ The event will be held in Harrodsburg, KY with Louisville International Airport being the nearest airport to the site. We will provide detailed travel directions to all backers who purchase a ticket.
❓ Is there parking?
🚗 Yes, a designated parking area will be available. Driving to tenting sites will be restricted to pack-in and pack-off. Once time-in is called, you will not be able to drive through the festival grounds.
❓ Is public transportation available?
🚌 There is no public transportation available in this area.
❓ What’s the weather like?
🌤️ Expect daytime highs in the high 60’s F and nighttime lows in the high 40’s F. Bring layers and prepare for potential rain or chilly nights.
❓ Is this a family-friendly event?
👶 Yes! This is an 18+ event, but children under 18 can attend with their parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
❓What is needed for check-in?
📜 ID expectations. For check-in, a valid (non-expired) government ID is required to be shown.
🏕️ CAMPING & ACCOMMODATIONS
❓Lodging / Hotels ?
🏕️We do not have recommendations, but players are welcome to facilitate their own stays. Each player tent will be allocated an amount of space equal to 12x12' per person staying in the tent.
❓ What’s the difference between In-Game and Out-of-Game Camping?
🏕️ In-Game camping means your tent and setup must fit the medieval/fantasy aesthetic—no modern tents, lights, camp chairs, etc, should be visible.
⛺ Out-of-Game Camping allows modern camping gear and is for those who don’t want to sleep in an immersive setting.
❓ Do I have to bring my own tent?
🛖 You can bring your own tent (following in-game rules for immersive camping), or rent one from us when purchasing your ticket.
❓ Are there showers and bathrooms?
🚿 Yes, there will be portable restrooms and trailer showers on-site. However, this is a rustic camping experience, so plan accordingly!
❓ Can I have a campfire?
🔥 Personal fires will not be allowed due to safety regulations, but we will have communal fire pits in the camping areas for storytelling and cooking. We will provide the firewood for free. Please do not bring any outside firewood. It is illegal to transport firewood across certain state and county lines.
🧙 IMMERSION & ROLEPLAY
❓ Do I have to roleplay the entire time?
🗣️ Yes! There will be designated "Out-of-Character" areas where you can take breaks. We will have an Orientation Packet that will provide tips on how to take a break but still uphold immersion.
❓ Do I need to have a character prepared?
📜 We encourage you to develop a Hobbit character ahead of time, but we do not have a Character filing system, so this is entirely up to you. Players cannot play named Lord of the Rings characters.
❓ Are costumes required?
🧥 Costumes are required. We will have guides available with ideas for crafting a basic character concept.
❓ Can I bring my phone?
📵 Phones should be hidden or used only in Out-of-Game areas to maintain immersion.
⚔️ ACTIVITIES & SAFETY
❓ What kind of activities will there be?
🎭 Quests, Competitions, Musical Performances, Merchants, and more! A full schedule will be released before the event.
❓ Will there be combat?
⚔️ No. This event is focused on community, adventure, feasting, and problem-solving.
❓ Can I bring my own LARP weapons?
🛡️ We will allow certain LARP-safe ‘weapons’, primarily foam items, such as rolling pins, baguettes, frying pans, etc,, but there will not be player combat at this event.
❓ Is alcohol allowed?
🍻 Yes. There will be designated vendors selling themed beverages. Outside beverages can also be brought with you.
Mercer County, Kentucky is a Dry County. This means you can purchase alcohol within the town of Harrodsburg.
🛒 FOOD & MERCHANDISE
❓ Will there be food available?
🥖 Yes! We will have numerous food trucks with Hobbit-inspired meals for purchase, along with some communal snacks within the festival areas.
❓ Can I bring my own food and drink?
🍏 Yes! You are welcome to bring your own, and there will be communal fire pits to cook on. Cooking implements and packaging will need to fit the fantasy / Hobbit setting or be hidden.
❓ Will there be vendors?
🎪 Yes! We will have many local vendors selling handcrafted goods, costume pieces, and period-style accessories accessories.
🛍️ MERCHANDISE & SHOPPING
❓ Can I sell my own items at the event?
💰 Yes! We will have a vendor marketplace for artisans and traders. If you're interested in having a booth, reach out to us at tm@Burgschneider.com.
❓ Will you have event-exclusive merchandise?
🎁 Yes! Kickstarter backers will have access to exclusive merch, including limited-edition tankards.
🎭 IMMERSION & ROLEPLAY – ADVANCED QUESTIONS
❓ Do I have to speak in Old English or an accent?
🗣️ No, but you’re welcome to!
❓ Can I play a non-Hobbit character?
🧝 No, all player characters are Hobbits.
❓ Will there be a storyline, or is it just free roleplay?
📖 Both! There will be structured quests and storylines, but also plenty of space for freeform roleplay.
❓ What if I’ve never LARPed before?
🌱 That’s totally fine! We’ll have a Beginner’s Guide / Orientation Packets to help newcomers get comfortable.
❓ What if I break character?
🙈 No worries! While the goal is to refrain from any real world or modern discussions, breaking character can happen. If it’s a small slip, just roll past it and move forward.
Immersion is a very important aspect of the event, so please do your best and help contribute to the environment. If you find you need a break, head to an Out-of-Game area to rest and refresh yourself before heading back out.
⏳ EVENT SCHEDULE & PARTICIPATION
❓ When does the event officially start and end?
⏰ The event officially starts on October 8th at 5PM EST, and ends on October 12th at 3AM. However, you can arrive early for setup on Tuesday, October 7th for a small early arrival fee.
❓ Do I have to participate in everything?
🛑 No! You are welcome to choose what activities you want to join in on. Feel free to spend your time feasting, adventuring, crafting, socializing, or just relaxing in The Shire.
❓ Will there be nighttime activities?
🌙 Yes! Expect bonfires, storytelling, bardic circles, stargazing, and late-night feasts.
Schedule
Tuesday: 5PM Early Arrivals
Wednesday: 9AM Gates Open, Set-up / Seminars
Thursday: Final set-up & Game-On at 11AM. Games, activities, questing, party, music
Friday: Games, activities, questing, party, music
Saturday: Games, activities, questing, party, music
Sunday - Pack-up / Exit the Site by 2PM
🚨 RULES & SAFETY
❓ Are pets allowed?
🐶 Unfortunately, no. Only service animals are permitted.
LARPing is an unusual activity compared to everyday life. If a service animal becomes disruptive, we will have to ask you to leave.
If you have a disability you’d like to share with us, we are happy to assist you in any way we can. Please contact us at tm@Burgschneider.com so we can make arrangements and discuss any limitations.
❓ What happens if there’s an emergency?
🚑 We will have designated staff and first aid stations on-site. If you need assistance, go to the nearest event staff member.
❓ Are there any rules for behavior?
⚠️ Absolutely. We have a strict code of conduct ensuring a safe and welcoming experience for all. Any form of harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior will result in immediate removal.
❓ Can I bring real weapons?
❌ No real weapons (including real knives, swords, or bows) are allowed. Only approved LARP-safe weapons can be used. Please see the Activities & Safety section for specifics.
❓ Can I bring my own alcohol?
🍺 Outside alcohol is permitted. Additionally, we will have themed tavern areas where drinks will be available for purchase, for those of legal age. Please keep in mind you are accountable for your behavior. If you become unruly, you’ll be asked to leave the next morning.
🎶 ENTERTAINMENT & PERFORMANCES
❓ Will there be live music?
🎻 Yes! Expect bardic performances throughout the event.
❓ Can I bring my own musical instrument?
🎸 Yes, as long as it fits the fantasy aesthetic (no electric guitars or modern-looking instruments). Acoustic guitars are welcome.
❓ Can I perform at the event?
🎤 Unofficially, yes! We will have areas where you are welcome to play, but you may be asked to refrain from playing during certain periods or in certain areas. We will have stages for our hired performers. If you wish to perform professionally, please reach out to us at tm@Burgschneider.com.
📡 TECHNOLOGY & MODERN CONVENIENCES
❓ Can I use my phone during the event?
📵 Please keep phones hidden and muted in the In-Game areas. They are fine to use in Out-of-Game zones. In case of emergencies, please seek out the nearest staff member.
❓ Will there be WiFi?
🌐 No. Expect to disconnect from modern life and immerse yourself fully!
❓ Can I charge my phone?
🔋 We will not have charging stations available.
🗺️ TRANSPORTATION & ARRIVAL
❓ What time should I arrive?
🚪 For General Admission Tickets, gates open at 8AM on Wednesday, October 8th. Early check-in is available beginning at 5PM on Tuesday, October 7th.
❓ Will there be a shuttle from the nearest city/airport?
🚐 We do not currently have shuttle options. If enough people request it, we may organize a group transport option!
📝 EXTRA DETAILS
❓ Can I volunteer at the event?
🙌 Yes! We have a limited number of volunteer spots available. Please Email tm@Burgschneider.com for more info.
❓ Can I sponsor or partner with the event?
📢 Absolutely! We are open to sponsorships from local businesses and service providers. Contact us at tm@Burgschneider.com.
❓ Will there be a photographer or videographer?
📸 Yes! We will have several professional photographers and videographers that will capture event highlights, and we’ll share these photos with attendees after the event.
❓ Can I take my own photos?
📷 No. Please keep your cameras / phones hidden in In-Game areas.
