Medieval Fair Goers Must Pay to Park This Year

By Gan Matthews, NEWS 9

NORMAN, Oklahoma -- It's been a staple in Norman for more than three decades. The Middle Ages are back as the Medieval Fair is now underway. It's a free fair, but this year you have to pay for parking.

Participants can see just about everything at the Medieval Fair including damsels, dragons, drums and drum sticks. The Medieval Fair is the place for anachronism, a little anarchy, plus lots of artisans.

"We had 236 artists and crafts people, 40 food vendors, six stages, and I would say it's about the same size that it was last year," Linda Linn, Medieval Fair Coordinator, said."

One other new addition to the fair this year is a $5 parking fee at the nearby Lloyd Noble Center. Not everyone is happy.

"I don't like it," said Tina Hall. "I mean, it's supposed to be a free event and they're charging us for parking. And the parking lot's not being used as it is."

OU says its policy is to charge for all events now to pay for cleanup and wear and tear on the lot.

"I'm a fan of OU, so sure, if it supports the school or school program, sure," Paul Snyder said.

Fee or no fee, the lot filled up just fine, and the fair filled up, too.

About 300,000 people are expected to attend the Medieval Fair that runs through Sunday.