Virginia Renaissance Faire

Virginia Renaissance Faire

The Virginia Renaissance Faire runs every weekend from May 9 through June 7 at a lakeside venue transformed into a Renaissance celebration. Kids love the costumes, characters, jousting knights, jesters, and performers that make it feel real. This is history through play, not textbook lessons.

You'll see knights jousting on horseback, craftspeople doing glassblowing and leatherworking, fairytale characters and performers throughout the grounds, games and activities for kids, and Renaissance-style food. Costume dressing is encouraged but not required — it's fun watching families in period outfits. Plan for a full day: there's entertainment for toddlers through older kids.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Wear period costume (or don't — both are equally fun!): Dressing up in medieval/renaissance clothing is encouraged and adds to the magic, but plenty of families come in regular clothes. If you want to dress up, check online retailers for affordable kid costumes, or raid your closet for anything vaguely medieval.
• ✓Bring cash for food & vendors: While some vendors take cards, cash is king at the Ren Faire. Budget ~$30–50 per person for food, drinks, and maybe a souvenir or two.
• ✓Go on opening weekend (May 9–10) for best crowds: Early season has more manageable crowds than later June weekends when the weather heats up and vacation season begins.
• ✓Kids love the children's stage with interactive fairy tales: This is the most kid-focused area where performers directly engage children. Perfect for little ones ages 3–8 to feel included in the action.
• ✓Wear extremely comfortable walking shoes: This is an outdoor venue with lots of walking and uneven ground. Sturdy sneakers or walking boots are essential. Kids in strollers are fine, but expect to do serious walking yourself.
• ✓Bring sunscreen and hats: There's limited shade on the grounds. May weather can surprise you — apply sunscreen liberally, especially on kids' faces and ears. Hats are practical and add to the costume fun!
• ✓Plan 4–5 hours for a complete experience: Arrives when gates open (10am), catch jousting shows, explore all the entertainment, eat, watch performances. You'll easily fill a full day without rushing.