If you’ve ever driven past Elmington park on a Sunday afternoon, you’ve probably uttered some version of ‘WTF?!’ Under your breath. The park is overtaken by medieval warriors bearing foam swords and battling it out - an odd scene to be taking place across from West End AVE. Just what is this medieval mayhem that takes over the park? Who are these weekend warriors?

The medieval battle movement is much larger than the scene in Nashville. Dagorhir is a national organization with local chapters (or 'Realms') in cities across the country. It markets local battle groups as ‘a chance to live an adventure’ with ‘fast paced full contact battles’. Participants create personas and backstories and jump in to the role-play.

Dagorhir participants take their games quite seriously as exemplified by the multi-page rule book including a dress code and weapon codes. Despite the thorough explanations of weaponry and armor qualifications, participants seem to have a balanced view of the games. Spectators, including children, are welcome. These weekend warriors cite camaraderie and blowing off some steam as primary reasons to participate. 

If you’ve never seen this Elmington Park spectacle, it’s worth watching for a few minutes. Pack a picnic and head to the park between Noon and 6pm on a sunny Sunday afternoon. We guarantee, you’ve never seen anything like it.