What is a Shirefest?

Just an out of doors party, if the weather cooperates, that mixes good food and entertainment with even better friends and family and a touch of wonder here and there. As a fan of Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings”, I’ve come to regard the area I grew up and live today in rural, western Loudoun County Virginia as very Shire-like. What better way to celebrate a life milestone as well as the place I call home than a big bash with so many of my favorite hobbits…I mean friends and family!

Isn’t this a birthday party?

Yes, I’m using my 50th birthday as an excuse to get everyone I know together for a big party, whether you know anything about hobbits or not. If it’s a hit, we may just do it again next year, and the year after that…

Also, no gifts! If you must give something, see the link at the top of the page.

What if it rains?

What kind of rain are we talking about. Light rain- party on outside. Heavy rain- we’ll move to the Barn and some other covered areas. Thunderstorm- we’ll shelter inside until all clear. It’s August in Virginia, so any of the above are possible as well as extreme heat. Please dress appropriately.

Is this a costume party?

Absolutely not, this is a super casual event. But we certainly encourage those willing to become a character from Middle earth or don a costume from the realms of related fantasy or the Middle Ages in general.

What if I don’t know or care what a hobbit is?

Well, then you’re just like the rest of my family! So no worries, just come and have fun.

What should I bring?

1. A healthy appetite. Eating is a pastime in the Shire.

2. A designated driver if you plan to drink beyond your limits.

3. Sun protection. We have some shaded areas but not totally shaded.

4. Bathing suit if you want to jump in the pool to cool off.

5. Camping gear if you plan to camp on site. We’ll have a portajon nearby and water available from the house.

Is it safe?

Aside from Gandalf’s general admission that “It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door”, we do hope everyone takes the safety of themselves and their family members seriously. We will have actual ponies, actual professional sword fighting, actual swimming in the pool, and actual fireworks (weather-permitting), but as long as adults and kids listen to the adults in charge of those activities, all should be well. We plan to have lifeguards on duty during the busy part of the event. Also, watch out for deer on the roads!

Should I bring my dog or other non-human companion?

Given the number of people and livestock planning to attend, please leave your furry, finned, or feathered friends at home.

What’s the deal with camping?

We have two areas designated for potential camping-

• Cabin Camp- located next to a guest cabin that is less shaded and farther from the Party, but could share the kitchen and bath in the cabin.

• Creekside Camp- located downhill from the party in shade of trees. There will be a portajon nearby but kitchen and bathrooms would be back up at the house.

What’s the deal with the hike?

Bear’s Den is a short section of the Appalachian Trail located nearby on the Blue Ridge. It offers a beautiful western view from a rock outcropping at the top. About a 30 minute moderate effort hike there and back again. It’s very busy on weekends, so hoping early Friday will be a decent time before the all heat and people. Here is some more info- https://gohikevirginia.com/bears-den-overlook-hike/

What’s the deal with elevenses?

One of the Shire’s seven traditional mealtimes, elevenses (like brunch) falls between second breakfast and luncheon.

What’s the deal with fishing and where is the Anduin River?

Well, the real Anduin river is in Middle earth (where Gollum found The One Ring), but we’ll likely choose a nice trout stream for fly fishing within a couple hours of the farm, likely without any magic rings at the bottom. Depending on interest, we can provide rods if needed. More details to come on this.