SMA’s 2nd Annual Renaissance Fair

The stage was set, the costumes were ready, and excitement reached a peak last week as Stella Maris Academy (SMA) High School welcomed students, families, and community members to its 2nd Annual Renaissance Fair on Friday, May 22.

Designed and hosted by SMA high school students, the afternoon celebration brought history to life for younger learners and visitors of all ages. The campus transformed into a bustling medieval world filled with period games, hands-on activities, historical reenactments, and student performances. SMA elementary students stepped back in time as eager participants—meeting colorful characters, tackling interactive challenges, and engaging in imaginative learning that extended far beyond the classroom.

Reflecting on the event, teacher and organizer Mrs. Zelenka shared the joy of seeing the fair come together: “It was a wonderful day! The students and staff fully embraced the magic of the event and brought a Renaissance world to life—one that our young elementary students could truly feel immersed in.”

With threatening weather forecasts looming all week, the team kept a close eye on the skies. “We were worried about the weather,” she noted, “but God answered our prayers and held off the rain until the very end.”

Student Creativity on Full Display

One of the defining strengths of the fair was the leadership of the high school students, who planned, performed, and guided guests through an immersive afternoon of discovery. Mrs. Zelenka praised their efforts, noting it was a powerful demonstration of SMA students living out the school’s motto to lead, love, and serve.

Among the day’s standout moments was a student-choreographed fencing match that wove through the Marketplace, delighting the crowds. Music also filled the air as SMA’s "Wandering Minstrel," Mr. Cyr, entertained guests across the grounds. Even the orchestra joined the storytelling; dressed as pirates, they were playfully pursued by elementary students who challenged them to games of rock, paper, scissors in hopes of winning "gold coins" from a treasure hoard.

Beloved returning characters added to the festive atmosphere, including the Plague Doctor, played by Mrs. Nikcevich, who "tended" to victims with memorable, historically accurate remedies.

Building on Last Year’s Success

For its second year, organizers expanded on the inaugural event's most popular features—especially the Marketplace. Mrs. Zelenka noted that last year's success gave the team the confidence to grow the experience for 2026. This growth was heavily supported by parent volunteers who managed booths, helped craft costumes (including pieces for a living chessboard), and contributed vital resources.

New additions this year included a "Fear Factor" booth, where brave students taste-tested authentic, historical foods from the era—creating an unforgettable blend of curiosity, courage, and history.

Why the Renaissance Fair Matters

From an educator’s perspective, Mrs. Zelenka emphasized that hands-on celebrations help students connect learning across disciplines. The fair synthesized history, literature, art, theater, music, design, research, public speaking, and problem-solving, turning students from passive learners into active creators.

Events like this also highlight individual strengths that may not always surface in a traditional classroom setting. When students are given space to lead, perform, build, design, organize, or tell stories, learning becomes both deeply personal and memorable.

Gratitude for a Community Effort

Mrs. Zelenka expressed deep gratitude for the collective effort required to bring the fair to life, thanking the teachers, students, parent volunteers, and community supporters.

She offered special thanks to maintenance staff Arch, Russ, and Mark for their invaluable help with setup and takedown, and to Megan White for keeping hot chocolate flowing during the chilly morning hours. Mrs. Zelenka also recognized Mrs. Kristin Larson and Mrs. Elizabeth Nygaard for their central role in shaping the vision that ultimately came to life.

Looking Ahead

With strong momentum from year two, organizers and students are already dreaming up plans for the future. Ideas include expanding the Marketplace, adding curriculum-connected science booths to explore Renaissance-era discoveries, and deepening the commitment to historical authenticity.

Following a post-event debrief, Mrs. Zelenka reported that the students generated two full pages of new ideas, including strong interest in forming a "Booth Maker Club" to help design and construct features for future events.

As the Annual Renaissance Fair cements its place as a cherished SMA tradition, last week’s event served as a vibrant reminder of what is possible when students are empowered to create and an entire community rallies to support them.