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Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more! Rose & Thorns returns for 2026. Experience the art of the sword at one of the only west coast events dedicated to the rapier and smallsword. A full weekend featuring distinguished fencing instructors, prize tournaments, vendors, demonstrations, and more in the beautiful Sierra Foothills.Diamond Rose Academie D’Armes proudly presents Rose & Thorns Historical Fencing Symposium, held in Auburn, California February 28th & March 1st, 2026.
Northern California has a high density of exceptionally talented practitioners of the rapier, and Rose & Thorns creates an opportunity for that talent to be displayed and shared. This event offers an entire weekend of historical fencing tournaments and workshops for all experience levels, as well as opportunity for spectation and introductory classes for anyone with a new interest in the art of the sword.
This event will be held in the heart of the Sierra Nevada foothills at the beautiful Gold Country Fairgrounds. The 11,000 sq ft. former National Guard venue known appropriately as 'The Armory' features athletic floors, easy access, and free parking.
Whether you’re picking up a blade for the very first time, or dueling your way to the top of one of our prize tournaments, this event has a role for you. Fencers from HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts), SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) , independent organizations, and classical fencing schools will all be represented to test their skill at arms, teach lessons in their areas of expertise, and forge new connections. The event is open to all fencers and to the general public
Registration will be live very soon!
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Gold Country Fairgrounds, Auburn, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.
