Top Medieval Festivals to Attend in October 2024

October is a month full of exciting medieval festivals where history lovers can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the Middle Ages. From reenactments and markets to jousting tournaments and performances, there are plenty of events to enjoy across the globe.

October medieval festivals

These incredible festivals offer a chance to escape the modern world and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of medieval and Renaissance times. Whether you're a fan of Scottish heritage, pirate lore, or classic Renaissance pageantry, there's a festival to suit every interest. Mark your calendars and get ready for a journey through time this fall!

Here's a list of exciting events where you can experience the charm of the October medieval festivals era:

1. Mercado Medieval de Pero Escouche (October 26-27, 2024)

Where: Castelo de Pirescouxe, Portugal

Located just north of Lisbon, this medieval market takes place at the ancient Castelo de Pirescouxe. The festival is packed with artisans and taverns, offering visitors an immersive experience. The entertainment includes medieval reenactments, performances, and market stalls selling traditional crafts. The castle’s medieval charm brings history to life, making it an event to remember.

2. Kansas City Renaissance Festival (August 31 - October 13, 2024)

Where: Kansas City, KS, USA

This festival brings the spirit of the Renaissance to Kansas City every weekend through October 13. With elaborate costumes, themed food, and live entertainment, the Kansas City Renaissance Festival features jousting tournaments, artisans, and street performers. It’s a fun family-friendly event, rain or shine.

3. Carolina Renaissance Festival (October 5 - November 24, 2024)

Where: Huntersville, NC, USA

The Carolina Renaissance Festival is one of the largest medieval fairs in the United States, offering eight weekends of continuous fun. Attendees can experience the thrill of jousting, feast on turkey legs, and browse handcrafted goods from talented artisans. With entertainers ranging from acrobats to musicians, it’s a must-visit event.

Carolina Renaissance Festival

4. Ohio Renaissance Festival (August 31 - October 27, 2024)

Where: Waynesville, OH, USA

Held in Waynesville, Ohio, this festival captures the essence of the Renaissance with various themed weekends. Visitors can enjoy a historical village setting complete with jousting, games, and an artisan marketplace. The festival runs every weekend until the end of October.

5. Alabama Renaissance Faire (October 26-27, 2024)

Where: Florence, AL, USA

Held in Florence, Alabama, this festival celebrates the Renaissance with crafts, live music, and performances. Artisans display their medieval-themed goods, and attendees can participate in interactive games and tournaments. It’s a festive way to experience a taste of history.

6. Escondido Renaissance Faire (Fall)

Location: Escondido, CA

Dates: October 26 - November 3

Step into a world of jousting knights, roaming minstrels, and bustling marketplaces at the Escondido Renaissance Faire. This two-weekend event transports visitors back to the 16th century with live entertainment, artisan crafts, and delicious food. Whether you're there for the lively combat shows or historical reenactments, this faire promises a fun, educational experience for the whole family.

7. A Gathering of Rogues & Ruffians

Location: Baraboo, WI

Dates: October 12 - 13

Set in a charming Wisconsin village, A Gathering of Rogues & Ruffians is a celebration of mischief, artistry, and historical flair. Expect a weekend filled with interactive performances, artisan vendors, and plenty of fun for all ages. This family-friendly event offers a unique combination of Renaissance revelry and old-world charm.

8. Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest

Location: Panama City Beach, FL

Dates: October 11 - 13

If you're craving pirate adventures with a Renaissance twist, head to Panama City Beach for the Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest. Complete with pirate battles, treasure hunts, and pirate-themed performances, this event offers an exciting experience for visitors of all ages. Expect to see ships on the water, pirates on the beach, and a full weekend of family fun!

9. New York Renaissance Faire

Location: Tuxedo Park, NY

Dates: August 17 - October 6

Though this festival concludes in early October, the New York Renaissance Faire is one of the most beloved and long-running events in the country. With its extensive cast of characters, from knights and jesters to queens and wenches, the fair offers a fully immersive Renaissance experience. Explore artisan marketplaces, watch jousting tournaments, and enjoy endless entertainment for all ages.

New York Renaissance Faire

10. Ely Renaissance Faire & Pumpkin Festival

Ely, NV – October 19

Blending Renaissance history with the spirit of fall, this festival offers fun for the whole family. Enjoy jousting, pumpkin carving, and a lively marketplace filled with artisans.

11. Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire

Manheim, PA – August 17 - October 27

One of the largest Renaissance fairs in the U.S., this long-running event features interactive performances, costumed characters, and endless entertainment. Whether it's sword fighting or hearty medieval feasts, there's something for everyone.

12. All Hallows Medieval Fantasy Faire

Billings, MT – October 5 - 6

This fantasy-themed event adds a spooky twist to the Renaissance experience. Wi

th Halloween-inspired activities, costumes, and themed games, it’s a unique event for fans of both medieval and magical worlds.

13. Texas Renaissance Festival

Todd Mission, TX – October 12 - December 1

The largest Renaissance festival in the country offers weeks of themed weekends, from pirate adventures to royal court celebrations. It’s a must-see for those wanting an immersive, grand experience.

14. Maryland Renaissance Festival

Annapolis, MD – August 24 - October 20

Step back into the 16th century at this lively festival filled with jousting, royal parades, and costumed performers. Enjoy delicious food, interactive performances, and a bustling marketplace.

15. Ravenwood Faire

Clear Brook, VA – October 18 - 27

The Ravenwood Faire brings medieval history to life with reenactments, live music, and unique vendors. It's a great destination for families and history enthusiasts.

16. Denmark Iowa Renaissance Faire

Wever, IA – October 19 - 20

This two-day festival captures the charm of the Renaissance with artisan demonstrations, games, and music. Explore the wonders of a bygone era in this family-friendly event.

Denmark Iowa Renaissance Faire

.17. Lakewood Renaissance Faire

Lakewood Township, NJ – October 5 - 6

This charming Renaissance fair offers jousting, stage performances, and historical demonstrations. With plenty of vendors and entertainers, it’s a perfect weekend getaway for all ages.