Renaissance Faire returns to MLES

Mt Laurel Elementary is gearing up for its 15th Renaissance Faire. The event will be held at the school Tuesday, Sept. 27, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The school’s largest fundraiser has been in place since it opened. However, don’t expect to see people dressed up in medieval clothing. The event was named for the school mascot, the Knights, and the exterior of the school’s resemblance to a castle.

This year’s event will be similar to the previous ones and feature a variety of rides, bouncy houses and an obstacle course. There are plans for at least one new ride and the new Mt Laurel Midway, featuring carnival-themed games inside the gym. Several food trucks will be on hand to give attendees options for dinner and dessert.

Vendors will also be set up in the gym, and a silent auction will take place. Bidding can be done online leading up to the Renaissance Fair. The auction is open to the public, but payments must be made at the school. Items can be picked up the night of the fair or at the school office the week after.

“The biggest thing that we work the hardest on is the silent auction,” PTO President Jill Bensinger said. “We have already gotten signed footballs from Alabama, Auburn and Georgia, along with lots of restaurant gift cards. Our themed classroom baskets are also a huge draw every year. Twenty percent of the money raised from the classroom baskets goes right back to the teacher to use for their classroom.”

Bensinger said the PTO is looking at several different ways to use the money raised this year.

“We plan to continue to upgrade technology in our classrooms and are also looking into building a functional outdoor classroom,” she said.

Armbands for children ages 5 and older are $15 and can be purchased at the door and are good for unlimited rides and games. Adult admission is free when accompanied by a child.

For updates on the Renaissance Fair, find the Mt Laurel Elementary School PTO at facebook. com/MLESKnightLife.