Twins Headline Faeries of the Forest Festival

Two pairs of identical twins, renowned for their musical talents, are set to lead the third Faeries of the Forest Festival held on July 25 in South Elgin. The Harp Twins, Camille and Kennerly Kitt, are professional harpists known for their rock and heavy metal covers. Dromil and Dromal Volfgang, drummers and heavy metal artists, will join them on stage during the event. The festival will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Vasa Park, starting with a sensory-friendly hour before the formal activities begin at 11 a.m.

The festival succeeded the World of Faeries Festival, which lasted for 19 years until 2023. Its current iteration began in 2024, driven by fans who recognized the charm and necessity of whimsical gatherings. According to Valerie Notarnicola, Board President, the inaugural festival welcomed approximately 600 attendees. Despite initial uncertainties, the event has grown more structured, now featuring 20 volunteers to assist with children’s activities.

Last year, attendance reached 900, and the organizers are hopeful for an even larger turnout this year, partly due to the popularity of the Harp Twins and Volfgang Twins. Camille and Kennerly Kitt hold bachelor’s degrees in Harp Performance from Wheaton College Conservatory of Music and have an expansive following in Chicago. Their self-produced catalog includes 15 albums, featuring arrangements of songs by Metallica, Iron Maiden, and other famous bands. They have over 2.5 million social media followers.

The Volfgang Twins, celebrated for their tribal/Viking drum performances, are not far behind in popularity. Their group released an album titled “Ice Storm” in 2025.

The festival aims to foster a sense of community and benefits local partners by providing a Renaissance-fair experience mixed with unique entertainment.

Kids Quest programs will run throughout the event, introducing new fantasy elements. In collaboration with Belegarth, a daylong live-action role-playing combat event is titled Invasion of the Veilwood. Participants can join activities across various fae courts in Vasa Park, earning keychains and stamping a leather piece at the quest’s end.

Approximately six food trucks and additional vendors will be available, though attendees can bring their food and beverages (excluding alcohol). A featured event, the Woodland Market, will showcase 75 vendors selling handmade goods and art. Another attraction includes a tea party hosted by the Fairy Godmother, featuring storytelling. Workshops are available to engage families with various crafts and activities.

The festival aims to accommodate all ages, welcoming everyone from infants to seniors. Wandering performers, including a fire artist, body painter, and bard, will entertain attendees, adding to the festive ambiance.

Admission is affordable, with adult tickets priced at $10, children aged 5 to 18 at $5, and free entrance for kids under 5 and seniors over 65. Tickets are available online at faeriesoftheforest.square.site or can be purchased at the gate. Parking is free.

Notarnicola encourages participation to connect with the community, embrace creativity, and experience a family-focused Renaissance fair. She hopes the festival will become a summer highlight for attendees.