Top Must-Visit Medieval and Renaissance Festivals in October 2024

October is packed with magical festivals that transport you to medieval times, fantasy realms, and historical adventures. Whether you’re a fan of knights and fairies there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month. it's the perfect time to explore the mystical world of medieval fairs and Celtic festivals. Here are some of the key events happening across the world, which you won’t want to miss!

Here’s a guide to the must-visit Renaissance Festivals in October

1. Spokane Renaissance Faire

Location: Colbert, WA

Date: October 5 - 6

Step into the realm of knights, royalty, and artisans at the Spokane Renaissance Faire. Complete with jousting tournaments, interactive performances, and merchants selling medieval goods, this faire provides a family-friendly atmosphere. Engage in sword-fighting demonstrations, listen to period music, and indulge in themed food and drink.

2. Cottonwood Faire

Location: Amarillo, TX

Date: October 12 - 13

The Cottonwood Faire offers a Texas-sized Renaissance experience! Visitors can enjoy full-contact jousting, local vendors selling handcrafted items, and entertainment ranging from belly dancers to fire jugglers. Don't miss the chance to experience authentic combat demonstrations and archery contests.

3. Idaho Renaissance Faire

Location: Garden City, ID

Date: September 28 - October 6

Experience medieval Idaho at the Idaho Renaissance Faire. Featuring historical reenactments, skilled artisans, and performances, this event captures the spirit of the Middle Ages. Sword-fighting competitions and jousting matches are a big draw, along with kid-friendly activities like scavenger hunts.

4. Days of Knights

Location: Lancaster, OH

Date: October 5 - 6

For a medieval festival with a local touch, Days of Knights in Ohio offers a blend of historical education and entertainment. With a focus on historical reenactments, the festival brings to life the craftsmanship, armor, and weaponry of medieval times. Enjoy the falconry displays and knightly combat tournaments!

5. Riverssance Festival

Location: Sioux City, IA

Date: October 5 - 6

Set along the Missouri River, the Riverssance Festival is a charming event featuring artisan crafts, delicious medieval foods, and entertainment from sword fights to live music. The festival also supports local artists, making it a hub for creativity and history enthusiasts alike.

6. Delaware Renaissance Faire

Location: Townsend, DE

Date: October 26 - November 11

Delaware’s Renaissance Faire is known for its detailed reenactments and commitment to historical accuracy. Visitors can watch falconry demonstrations, enjoy comedic skits, and even witness a live chess match where the pieces are real people. It’s an event that promises both education and fun for all ages.

7. Northern California Renaissance Faire

Location: Hollister, CA

Date: September 14 - October 20

With themed weekends and ongoing festivities, the Northern California Renaissance Faire offers a grand experience. Located near San Francisco, it provides entertainment ranging from live jousting to period music. The marketplace is filled with artisans, and kids can enjoy games, crafts, and interactive activities.

8. Tennessee Medieval Faire

Location: Harriman, TN

Date: October 5 - 20

Immerse yourself in medieval life at the Tennessee Medieval Faire. Knights on horseback, lively music, and an array of food vendors make this a standout event in the South. With its authentic portrayal of medieval culture and combat, this faire is an annual tradition for many history enthusiasts.

9. OzFaire Renaissance Festival

Location: West Plains, MO

Date: October 12 - 13

This small-town faire offers a cozy atmosphere for fans of all things Renaissance. OzFaire is known for its local artisans, family-friendly games, and interactive performances. A highlight is the knightly tournaments, where armored warriors battle for honor and glory.

10. Iowa Renaissance Festival

Location: Middle Amana, IA

Dates: October 12 - 13

The Iowa Renaissance Festival offers an educational yet entertaining look at the medieval period. From blacksmith demonstrations to live jousting and storytelling, it’s the perfect festival for families and history buffs looking to step back in time.

11. Renaissance of Kings Faire

Location: Hanford, CA

Dates: October 5 - 6

Travel to the Kingdom of Hanford for a weekend of royal courts, jousting tournaments, and medieval crafts at the Renaissance of Kings Faire. This community-focused event also includes live performances and a marketplace filled with handmade goods.

12. Whispering Grove Faire

Location: Kirbyville, TX

Dates: October 19 - November 17

Whispering Grove Faire is an enchanting event set in the woods of Kirbyville, Texas. With live music, medieval reenactments, and a Renaissance village atmosphere, this faire offers visitors an immersive experience in a magical setting.

13. Del Rio Renaissance Festivals in October

Location: Del Rio, TX

Dates: October 12 - 13

Nestled near the Mexico border, the Del Rio Renaissance Faire is a unique event that brings together the cultures of both sides of the border with medieval flair. Expect traditional jousting, a marketplace of artisans, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.