What is the SCA?
The Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) is an international non-profit volunteer educational organization. The SCA is devoted to the research and re-creation of pre-seventeenth century skills, arts, combat, culture, and employing knowledge of history to enrich the lives of participants through events, demonstrations, and other educational presentations and activities.
Do I need to pay to participate?
No. You do not have to be a paid member to participate in the SCA. There are benefits to have a paid membership (discounts on entrance fee at events, voting in local group elections, holding office), but it is not required in order to attend meetings, practices, get togethers or events.
Do I need to have a name or heraldry to participate?
No. While many people do eventually decide on a persona name and/or device, none is required to participate in the SCA
Is the SCA LGBTQIA+ friendly?
We welcome everyone regardless of sex, race, gender, sexual orientation, and disability. The SCA has an anti-bullying and harassment policy and an Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your local seneschal, chatelaine, or DEI officer.
What do I need in order to attend an event?
An attempt at pre-17th century garb is all that is required. If you do not have any, that is ok. Contact your local group and they may have loaner garb (known as gold key).
Here is an excerpt from the Known World Handbook talking about what to expect at your first event.
What do all of these terms mean?
Check out our Glossary of Terms. There is also the Glossary of Terms on the Midrealm page and the Glossary of Jargon on the SCA page!