The third annual Faeries of the Forest Festival is set to feature two sets of identical twins performing on July 25 in South Elgin. Camille and Kennerly Kitt, known as the Harp Twins, will headline the event at Vasa Park. They are professional harpists who offer unique performances of heavy metal and rock hits.
Joining them are Dromil and Dromal Volfgang, drummers and heavy metal artists. Both the Harp Twins and the Volfgang Twins will perform at the event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The festival includes a sensory-friendly hour starting at 10 a.m. The activities will officially kick off at 11 a.m. with an opening ceremony, as mentioned by Valerie Notarnicola, the festival’s board president.
The Faeries of the Forest Festival emerged from the World of Faeries Festival, which concluded in 2023 after a 19-year run. In 2024, dedicated fans relaunched it, recognizing the importance of whimsy. Initially, about 600 participants attended, according to Notarnicola.
Notarnicola noted, “We were running on hopes, and now, with a full board and around 20 volunteers, we’ve grown.” Last year’s attendance was approximately 900, and they aim to surpass that this year with help from the Harp Twins and the Volfgang Twins.
Both twins boast significant followings. The Harp Twins, graduates from Wheaton College Conservatory of Music, regularly perform in Chicago. They have released 15 self-produced albums featuring their versions of rock and metal classics by Metallica, Iron Maiden, and more. Their global tours have gained them over 2.5 million followers on social media.
The Volfgang Twins bring their heavy metal show with double tribal and Viking drums. Their album “Ice Storm” was released in 2025, featuring original material.
The nonprofit festival seeks to support communities and local businesses, providing a Renaissance-fair experience. “We have various activities planned,” said Notarnicola. This includes partnerships like the live-action role-play event hosted by Belegarth Medieval Combat Society, along with Kids Quest activities.
Attendees can explore Vasa Park’s multiple courts, engaging with whimsical activities. Participants completing the quest receive a keychain and can stamp a piece of leather with the festival logo.
The festival will feature around six food trucks and vendors. Guests can bring their food and drinks, excluding alcohol. A highlight of the event is the Woodland Market, with 75 vendors selling handmade goods, art, and jewelry.
Additional activities include a tea party with baked goods, storytelling by the Fairy Godmother, and workshops offering crafting opportunities. “We market it as family-friendly,” Notarnicola emphasized. “There’s something for everyone.”
Entertainment around the grounds includes fire acts, body painting, and a roaming bard. The festival aims to be affordable, with ticket prices at $10 for adults, $5 for ages 5-18, and free for children under 5 and seniors over 65. Tickets are available online or at the event, with free parking provided.
“We aim for the festival to be a community connection, celebrating creativity,” stated Notarnicola, highlighting the continued growth of this community event.
Annie Alleman reports for The (Elgin) Courier-News.
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