Medieval Festivals You Can't Miss This September - 1

Medieval and Renaissance festivals are vibrant celebrations that bring history to life, offering a unique glimpse into the past with a mix of entertainment, education, and hands-on experiences. Here is a list of medieval and Renaissance fairs happening in September 2024:

Arkansas Renaissance Festival - Running from August 31 to September 29 in Mt. Vernon, Arkansas, this fair features various medieval-themed activities, performances, and vendors.

Connecticut Renaissance Faire - This fair takes place from August 31 to October 14 in Lebanon, Connecticut. It offers a rich array of medieval entertainment, including jousting, live music, and artisan crafts.

Sparta Renaissance Faire - Happening on weekends from September 7 to September 22 in Sparta, New Jersey. This event includes reenactments, performances, and medieval-themed marketplaces.

Vista Viking Festival

Scheduled for September 21-22 in Vista, California, this festival focuses on Viking culture but includes broader medieval themes, with battles, crafts, and traditional music.

Rio Renaissance Faire

A one-day event on September 28 in Rio Grande, Ohio, featuring a variety of Renaissance and medieval entertainment and activities.

Royal Medieval Faire

This annual event will be held on September 21 in Waterloo Park, Ontario, Canada. It’s a family-friendly event with storytelling, swordplay, games, and more​(FaireFinder, Festival Alarm, Royal Medieval Faire).

Minnesota Renaissance Festival - Shakopee, MN (August 17 - September 29)

The Minnesota Renaissance Festival is one of the largest in the country, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The event features a wide range of activities, including jousting tournaments, artisan markets, and stage performances. Guests can immerse themselves in the medieval atmosphere by dressing in period costumes and enjoying traditional food and drink.

Bristol Renaissance Faire - Kenosha, WI (July 6 - September 2)

Nestled on the Wisconsin-Illinois border, the Bristol Renaissance Faire is a beloved event that captures the spirit of the 16th century. With over 200 performances daily, including comedy, music, and acrobatics, visitors are entertained from the moment they enter the gates. The Faire is also known for its extensive marketplace, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to medieval weapons.

The Renaissance Faire at Sleepy Hollow - Des Moines, IA (August 31 - September 15)

This smaller but equally engaging festival in Des Moines offers a cozy, community-oriented experience. It features live entertainment, historical reenactments, and a variety of vendors selling medieval-themed goods. The Faire is perfect for families looking for an educational yet fun way to spend a weekend.

Hastings Medieval Festival - Hastings, ON (August 31 - September 2)

Held in Ontario, Canada, the Hastings Medieval Festival is a true celebration of medieval history and culture. The event includes jousting competitions, battle reenactments, and a medieval marketplace. It’s an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the rich traditions and customs of the medieval period.

The Scottish Highland Gathering and Games - Pleasanton, CA (August 31 - September 1)

While not strictly a medieval festival, this event in Pleasanton celebrates Scottish heritage with traditional Highland games, including caber tossing and tug-of-war. The gathering also features Scottish music, dance, and food, offering a unique cultural experience that echoes the traditions of Scotland's medieval past.

Michigan Renaissance Festival - Holly, MI (August 17 - September 29)

Located in Holly, Michigan, this festival is known for its immersive environment, complete with medieval-themed villages, costumed characters, and a variety of performances. From jousting tournaments to live music, the Michigan Renaissance Festival provides endless entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival - West Newton, PA (August 24 - September 29)

The Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival is a well-established event that offers a mix of history, fantasy, and fun. Visitors can enjoy everything from jousting and sword fights to comedy shows and musical performances. The festival’s setting in West Newton, Pennsylvania, adds to the authentic medieval atmosphere.

These festivals offer a chance to step back in time and experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of the medieval and Renaissance periods. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, these events provide an unforgettable journey into the past.