Experience the art of the sword. A full weekend event featuring distinguished fencing instructors, prize tournaments, vendors, demonstrations and more in the beautiful Sierra Foothills.

Diamond Rose Academie D’Armes proudly presents Rose and Thorns Historical Fencing Symposium, held in Auburn, California March 23 & 24th, 2024.
Northern California has a high density of exceptionally talented practitioners of western martial arts, and Rose and Thorns hopes to create 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 Foothills at the beautiful Gold Country Fairgrounds. The 11,000 sq ft. former National Guard venue known 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. Tournaments will include Open Rapier, Beginner’s and Advanced Smallsword, Rapier & Cloak, and a very special ‘Affair of Honor’ immersive dueling tournament ! The event is open to all fencers and to the general public.

Registration will go live through Eventbrite soon!