Annual Faeries of the Forest Festival to Feature Harp and Drum Duo Headliners
The third annual Faeries of the Forest Festival is set to take place on July 25 at Vasa Park in South Elgin. Two sets of identical twin musical artists will headline the event. The Harp Twins, Camille and Kennerly Kitt, are known for their harp performances of heavy metal and rock classics. The Volfgang twins, Dromil and Dromal, are drummers who also focus on heavy metal music. The festival will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering a sensory-friendly first hour before the opening ceremony kicks off at 11 a.m., as stated by fest board President Valerie Notarnicola.
Originally, the festival succeeded the World of Faeries Festival, which concluded its 19-year run in 2023. A dedicated group of fans now comprising the board staged the first Faeries of the Forest Festival in 2024, attracting around 600 attendees. Last year’s numbers reached 900, and expectations are high for this year, aided by the popularity of the twin performers. Notarnicola highlighted the substantial following of the Harp Twins and Volfgang Twins, suggesting that their presence would boost attendance.
Camille and Kennerly Kitt hold degrees in Harp Performance from Wheaton College Conservatory of Music and frequently perform in the Chicago area. They have released 15 self-produced albums featuring rock and metal hits from artists like Metallica and Iron Maiden. Having toured globally, they have gained over 2.5 million followers across various social media platforms. In contrast, the Volfgang Twins are recognized for their live performances using double tribal/Viking drums, with their quartet releasing an album titled “Ice Storm” in 2025.
The festival aims to be community-driven, offering whimsical entertainment and supporting local businesses. Notarnicola emphasized the Renaissance fair experience, with a range of activities catering to different age groups. “Kids Quest” will introduce new characters, and Belegarth Medieval Combat Society will host their day event, Invasion of the Veilwood. Activities throughout the park will appeal to both children and adults, culminating in participants stamping leather with the Faeries of the Forest Festival logo.
A variety of food trucks and vendors will be present, though attendees can bring their own food and drinks, excluding alcohol. The Woodland Market is a notable attraction, with 75 vendors offering handmade arts and crafts. A tea party with baked goods will be held, featuring storytime with the Fairy Godmother. Additionally, workshops with various crafts are scheduled.
The festival focuses on affordability, with ticket prices set at $10 for adults, $5 for ages 5 to 18, and free for children under 5 and seniors over 65. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the gate. Parking is free. Notarnicola encourages attendance to foster community connections and celebrate creativity. The festival aims to be a summer highlight.
Reported by Annie Alleman for The (Elgin) Courier-News.