Members of the Society for Creative Anachronism may copy and distribute this document to other members of the Society so long as copyright credit is given and no changes are made in the text. Any disputes over the actual content of the document will be decided in favor of the printed version. The SCA sponsors events such as tournaments, feasts, and university sessions where members dress according to medieval and Renaissance styles, and participate in activities based on the civil and martial skills of the period. The main focus of most outdoor events is a form of combat based on the tournaments of the High Middle Ages. They fight on foot, as was done a good part of the time after the mounted courses were run, following a system of rules which permit a realistic sport while promoting a very high safety record.
Extensive training is required, and all participants sign waivers of liability.
Besides costuming, armoring, and combat, activities include calligraphy, dancing, music, cookery, and board and field games, plus a variety of technical and social skills which help establish the ambience of life at a period court. Society events are open to the public, but, in keeping with the emphasis on living history rather than dramatic performance, all attendees are expected to make an attempt to preserve the atmosphere and fit in with the SCA's standards of dress and behavior. Many chapters keep a collection of period clothing and other gear to loan out, and larger events often include arrangements to assist unprepared visitors. Some of the Kingdoms include Principalities, ruled by Princes and Princesses also chosen by combat. These regional organizations are responsible for the smaller branches based in individual cities or counties.