What/When are "War Week" and "Peace Week"?
Pennsic spans 3 weekends.
Some people refer to the first week of Pennsic as "Peace Week", since there are no War Point battles scheduled. There is still plenty to do: the Merchant areas are open, Pennsic University classes & Artisans' Row start mid-week, and by the end of the week most other activities are underway, including performances, tournaments, archery, dancing, & children's activities.
"War Week" begins with Opening Ceremonies – a grand procession of all the kingdoms to the Battlefield, where war is declared and each kingdom announces on whose side they will fight. All the War Point battles take place this week, along with Kingdom Courts and a majority of the activities.
(Note: when checking in at Troll, the official start of the second week is 12:01 am Friday. People who arrive prior to that time pay the price for two week's attendance.)
Check the website's Overall Schedule to see what will be taking place.