From my own observations, a ren fair is not, and isn't intended to be, a reenactment. It's a chance to play dress up and go play with the other kids. There's nothing whatsoever wrong with that. You'll have some that try their best to make their costmes as authentic as they can while others use their imagination to create something with the flavor of fantasy. It's a matter of fun and escape. You have to keep things in perspective. Historical reenactments are great and I've been to some good ones at The Old Wade House in Wisconsin and some that aren't so great at the Gignon Mansion in Kaukauna, Wisconsin. Ren fairs aren't to common around here. I've been to a few in California but that was many years ago. Basically, it comes down to a historical event or a history themed party. Each has a place and it's pretty much up to the individual to know the difference.