Festival of Fools Brings Laughter and Unity to Var-Kor

THIS EVENT WAS AN IN-WORLD EVENT! Based in the Gorean world 

Please note that the Gorean Saga is a fictional series, and its world, customs, and values may not align with modern societal standards or moral principles.

Gor is Copyrighted by John Norman

Var-Kor was alive with colour and excitement this weekend as citizens and visitors from across Gor gathered to celebrate the annual Feast of Fools. Masks were worn, laughter filled the air, and the spirit of camaraderie could be felt in every corner of the city.

The festivities were officially opened by the Ubar himself, who delivered a stirring address honouring both the living and the departed before declaring the celebrations underway. Following his speech, the people of Var-Kor and their guests took part in a variety of games and contests that carried on well into the evening.

Adding to the merriment, the city’s slaves presented an impressive series of performances that drew cheers and applause from the crowd. In a playful twist befitting the festival’s theme, several citizens even exchanged roles for the day, blurring the lines of rank and station in good humour.

The Feast of Fools proved once again that in Var-Kor, unity and joy thrive even amidst solemn remembrance — a testament to the city’s enduring spirit.

Ubar's opening Speech: 

The gathering began with a lively mix of chatter, anticipation, and confusion as citizens and visitors assembled for the opening of the Festival of Fools. The atmosphere was festive but uncertain — some clapped too early, others waited, and a few joked or whispered among themselves, unsure when the true beginning would come. The crowd included all manner of people: free citizens, slaves, animals at their masters’ feet, and travellers curious about the day’s events.

When the city’s leader finally appeared, silence fell over the plaza. Standing tall beside the brazier, his masked face glimmering in the firelight, he welcomed all to the first day of the festival. His tone was solemn yet proud as he reminded those gathered that the celebration was not merely one of joy, but also of remembrance — a tribute to those who had journeyed to the City of Dust. Drawing from his belt a small, hand-carved wooden figurine gifted by his parents, he cast it into the flames as a personal offering.

He invited everyone present to do the same — to give something meaningful to the fire in memory of their lost loved ones. The leader explained that the day would be both somber and spirited, honouring the dead while embracing life through the festivities to come. Among these would be a symbolic game called Capture the Ghost, though participation was voluntary.

As he raised his horn of mead and drank deeply, the crowd erupted into applause, cheers, and chants of celebration. One by one, people approached the brazier — offering trinkets, carved figures, and keepsakes. Some whispered words to the flames, others watched quietly, lost in their own thoughts.

The speech marked a turning point: grief giving way to reverence, reverence to festivity. The people of the city and their guests stood united for a moment, bound by shared memory and anticipation, before turning toward the games and revelries that awaited them.

Stalls and Games:

The streets were lined with a wide array of market stalls, each offering a glimpse into the diverse craftsmanship and culture of Gor.

Among the most popular were the Titus Brothers’ stalls, featuring a mix of goods ranging from ale and mead to finely crafted artwork, books, scrolls, and even weapons. Nearby, food vendors enticed festivalgoers with the aroma of freshly baked cakes, buns, and pies, as well as exotic fruits, vegetables, and spices imported from distant lands. Sake from the Pani culture proved a particular favourite among those seeking something distinctive to sip.

Perfume and soap stalls offered luxurious scents for both men and women, while collectors were drawn to displays of rare coins, black beans, and metals mined from Teletis. Local artists also had their moment to shine, showcasing intricate wooden sculptures, nautical-themed artworks, and even the intriguing book “Men of Gor” — a title humorously marked “for the eyes of Free Women only.”

The weekend’s excitement extended beyond the marketplace, with a variety of games drawing eager participants and lively onlookers. The Verr Races saw small, swift creatures dashing across a miniature track as bets were placed and cheers rang out. The ever-popular Whack an Urt tested participants’ reflexes, with the top score of 56 earned by Var-Kor’s own Head Merchant. Meanwhile, the daring took part in the Walk the Coals challenge — where four brave contestants tied for victory, each lasting an impressive two minutes on the scorching path.

From trade to triumphs, the weekend’s festivities reflected Var-Kor’s growing talent for fostering a sense of skill, spirit, and community.