With celebrities like Chappell Roan embracing medieval aesthetics in their work, it comes as no surprise that there is a surge in the popularity of Renaissance festivals. This means that many newcomers are being introduced to the fascinating world of “Ren faires” or “Ren fests.” As someone who has attended these events for a few years, I thought I would create a mini guide for those interested in attending.

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Renaissance festivals have existed for decades. The first festival was the Renaissance Pleasure Faire of Southern California (est. 1963). The goal was to transport the attendees back to the Renaissance period. It combined crafts such as blacksmithing with the performing arts to create a living history event.  As these festivals spread across the country, a unique culture grew up around them.

Many Ren festivals continue the living history traditions of the Renaissance Pleasure Faire of Southern California. Guests can see folks dressed in Elizabethan costumes and folks handmaking crafts. However, attendees have embraced the fantastic when it comes to their costumes and play. It is not uncommon to see pirates intermingling with Vikings or faeries. The difference between medieval times and the Renaissance also becomes blurred. Personally, to me, it is like walking around a high fantasy novel.

So, are you interested yet? Below, I have taken the liberty to explain more about festival culture.

Do I Have to Dress Up?

It is completely normal to attend a Renaissance festival in normal clothes. There is no rule in attending that would force you to wear fantasy or medieval garments. I know that people who struggle with shyness or social anxiety often worry about this part. However, I think part of the fun is dressing up. Whether you purchase, sew, thrift, or do a combination of all three – a lot goes into creating an interesting costume for the faire. Meeting up with other costumed people, even roleplaying if you’re into it, gives you an amazing kind of immersion while you enjoy your day. Also, it’s nice just to get compliments on your outfit.

What to Eat

I think most people are familiar with the infamous turkey leg. While that is delicious, and I do recommend trying it, there are other delectable treats at the festival you can enjoy. Here are just a few: steak on a stake, pickles, Scotch eggs, beef stew, honeyed nuts, jerky, fish and chips, and chimney rolls. Don’t forget to wash it all down with some mead, or perhaps even go on a pub crawl!

Bring Money for Tips!

Part of what makes Renaissance festivals so interesting is the performers who put on shows. However, most of these dedicated individuals are doing so for free or little money. They rely on the generous tips of fairgoers to put on shows each year. Don’t forget to break up your big bills to tip them. Even just a dollar is appreciated.

Be Prepared to Spend

Or not. That depends on what sort of things interest you. However, I have seen people spend hundreds in one day. There are dozens of artisans selling their wares at faires. Most of these items are handmade, and come with a cost, but are excellent quality. If you’re a sucker for fantasy aesthetics, you will be interested in what there is to offer. From swords, to corsets, to pewter mugs – there is something for everyone.

The Fun of Trinket Trading

Trinket trading is a great way to connect with your local festival goers. Trinkets are small, cheap, and usually handmade items that can be exchanged with others. The general rule is that trinkets cannot be expensive objects that would otherwise compete with the wares of the artisans. For example, every year I buy batches of wooden mushrooms from the Dollar Tree and paint them. The smile you get when you offer them to others is worth it. I especially like giving trinkets to those who run shops. If the other person is a trinket trader, they will trade you their own unique trinket. Some even go so far as to wear signs or badges to signify that they trade trinkets. The haul you get at the end of the festival is amazing. Just make sure to check and see if your local faire allows trading.

So, what do you think? We are in the middle of the Renaissance festival season right now. It continues into the fall in most parts of the United States, but it lasts as late as Christmas in places like Texas. There are plenty of opportunities to check out your local festivals. Adventure awaits you!