Things to Do at Your Local Renaissance Fair

Spring is here and chances are a Renaissance fair will pop up in a town near you. One of our favorite local events is the SoCal Renaissance Faire which will return to the city of Irwindale, CA on April 2, 2016. If you’re wondering what all the hoopla is about, we’ve got a list of fun activities to do at a Renaissance fair. It’s a lot of fun for the whole family and they have activities for every age.

Renaissance Fair

Watch a show. One of the great things about the Renaissance fair is all the free attractions and shows. You’ll find medieval magicians, acrobats, comedians, sword performers, musicians and so much more. When I attended last year, we got to see a hypnotist for the first time. There was also a really great aerial acrobat performance in the middle of a field. Most Renaissance fairs also have a jousting exhibition which is something that you don’t see every day!

Buy a handmade souvenir. There are lots of great vendors selling handmade goods at the fair. You’ll find lots of interesting and unique wares including swords, sculptures, corsets, and incense to name a few. Support these artisans and treat yourself a one-of-a-kind souvenir to commemorate the experience.

Have tea with the Queen. Renaissance fairs are usually set to the Elizabethan period and they try their best to recreate an authentic experience from that era. This includes one of the most time-honored and treasured English pastimes; drinking tea. You don’t need a time machine to join the queen for tea, though. Many fairs have a “Tea with the Queen” experience which is usually available at an additional fee. You’ll get to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the presence of an actress dressed as Queen Elizabeth.

Play medieval games.  The carnival row won’t have your typical games. Instead, you’ll find ax throwing, archery, and a whole bunch of other medieval-style challenges.

Participate in a pub crawl. Drinking is a big part of the Renaissance fair. Taverns were a common place of gathering for any village even during those times. Sample the fairs selection with other merry-makers of the fair.

Eat a turkey leg. There’s nothing quite like a hot and juicy turkey leg smoked to perfection. Sample this and other tantalizing treats at the fair. You’re sure to find a dish that you won’t get anywhere else. Wash it down with a tall mug of mead.

Take pictures with a character actor. Throughout the fair, you’ll find people dressed in authentic garb of the Renaissance period. Often times these are custom-made and extremely detailed and chances are you won’t see anything like it anywhere else. Ask one of the character actors to pose with you so you can remember your experience. (Pro tip: some may ask for a tip, so have a dollar in hand just in case).

Wear a costume. Your Renaissance fair experience wouldn’t be complete without the appropriate attire. Get into the fun of the event and dress up. Either come in your own costume or rent one from the event. You’ll feel more like you’re part of the experience when you’re dressed up!

What activity do you enjoy the most at your Renaissance fair? Tell us about it by leaving a comment!

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