Grand Outlandish
Grand Outlandish
Grand Outlandish is one of the oldest and most celebrated events in the Kingdom of the Outlands, held annually over Memorial Day weekend. It began as the first major event in the region and remains a cornerstone of the kingdom’s calendar—known for its pageantry, hospitality, and long tradition of camping, combat, and creativity in the high desert of New Mexico.
Overview
Hosted near Albuquerque, New Mexico, Grand Outlandish typically spans four to five days and attracts attendees from across the kingdom and beyond. It is a multi-disciplinary event that includes:
- Armored and rapier combat
- Archery and thrown weapons
- Arts & Sciences classes and displays
- Bardic circles and performances
- Merchants' Row
- Youth and family activities
- Royal Courts
- Feasts and revels
- Late-night drumming and dancing under the stars
The event is organized by the Barony of al-Barran, the founding barony of the Outlands, and supported by volunteers from across the kingdom.
History
The first Outlandish was held before the Kingdom of the Outlands became a kingdom—when the area was still a part of the Kingdom of Atenveldt. What began as a local gathering grew into one of the defining traditions of the Outlands. When the Outlands became its own kingdom in 1986, Grand Outlandish took on even greater significance as the longest-running annual event in the region.
For many years, Grand Outlandish was the largest SCA camping event in the western kingdoms outside of Pennsic War, drawing participants for both its martial tournaments and its cultural richness. Its signature high desert setting, just outside Albuquerque, provides a dramatic backdrop for both battle and bardic.
Culture and Traditions
Over the decades, Grand Outlandish has developed a culture all its own. The event is known for its warm welcome to newcomers, vibrant merchant area, and memorable late-night gatherings. Camp traditions such as tribal drum circles, belly dancing, and spontaneous revelry have long coexisted with more formal activities like courts and vigils.
Some attendees return year after year to the same campsites, forming unofficial neighborhoods and long-standing friendships. It is not uncommon for peerage ceremonies, weddings, and other life milestones to be celebrated at Grand Outlandish.
Recent Highlights
- In 2022, the event marked its return after the COVID-19 pandemic with record enthusiasm.
- In 2024, a windstorm temporarily paused some scheduled activities, but the populace rallied and resumed festivities with minimal disruption.
Legacy
As the longest-running event in the Outlands, Grand Outlandish serves as both a historical anchor and a forward-looking celebration of the kingdom’s creativity, camaraderie, and chivalry. It is considered a must-attend event for many long-time members and a favorite first event for newcomers.