Great Tug-of-War Games

Inaugurating the Games

We're excited to introduce the Great Great Tug-of-War Games for the first time on both Saturday and Sunday afternoon within the bear pits (volleyball courts), hosted by the Westmarch Kingdom of Amtgard group! In addition to tug-of-war, there will also be demonstrations of valor in foam combat!

In Vietnamese culture, tug-of-war or kéo co, is a traditional folk game played during festivals (like Lunar New Year) symbolizing community, good harvests, and unity, often using bamboo ropes and featuring unique styles like sitting tug-of-war, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage with Cambodia, Korea, and the Philippines. It connects to wet-rice farming, features rituals, and brings people together to pray for prosperity and strength, requiring teamwork and community spirit.

About Westmarch Kingdom of Amtgard

I am a future knight select (Sir) Bear Bear of the Westmarch Kingdom; in which you mundanely call California.

We have been in existence since my belated knight before me; Sir Euric Bloodstone. Amtgard was founded in El Paso, TX in 1983. It has since flourished internationally between the US and Canada.

We are a medieval fantasy non-profit 501(c)(3) status.

We spread the knowledge of battle games through Amtgard and want to recruit and have you join us in future battle games, campouts, quests, tournaments, arts and science, and social hangouts.

We use foam boffers, foam shields, foam spell balls, and foam tipped arrowheads in our combat. So, test your might as a Warrior, Barbarian, or Assassin. But if you find magic to be your fancy: become the Wizard, Bard, Healer, or Druid. Whatever you choose we welcome you as you sign our liability waiver for foam combat. Don't know how to fight? We will teach how to do so with honor. Join us and make a friend during your adventures.

— (Sir) Kahu Defender Bear Bear of Westmarch