Taking children to a Renaissance faire is a lot of work, but with the right preparation it can create beautiful, lifelong memories. As a mom of two who’s also a cast member at several faires, I’ve learned quite a lot about how to help kids enjoy and engage with historical reenactment.
As you plan the perfect Renfaire adventure for your family, there’s much to consider. These strategies have helped ensure my family’s outings are fun, educational, and, as it bears repeating, fun, for all of us.
Planning
First, do your homework to decide what type of experience will be the most fun for you and your kids. What’s most appealing: an immersive, historical atmosphere, a variety of shopping options, well-known performers, combat demonstrations, the joust, or on-site camping? Once you narrow that down, you’ll be able to find your perfect event to attend and (important!) get tickets in advance. HINT: Read through the faire’s website to learn whether outside food is allowed (it usually is) and what their container policy is.
Whidbey Island
Ren Faire
(Photo by David
Centaura)
Garb (or what to wear)
“What should I wear?” This is the question I hear most from first-time faire goers. No, you don’t have to dress up, but you might want to. Whether you thrift your garb, buy or rent it online, get it at the faire, or make it yourself, dressing up is half the fun. Some faires have specific themes, or themed weekends, but you aren’t required to match them. Since most faires happen during warm weather, do what the performers do: focus on natural fibers, wear sturdy and comfortable shoes, and plan for sun protection.
Safety
Study the map and have a safety chat with your family before you arrive. Discuss what to do if you get separated: stay put and know who to ask for help. Take photos of your group at the beginning of the day so helpers know who to look for. Some faires have security, others have crew members, and some have both. Hydrate early and often to avoid the most common issue at a faire — heat exhaustion. Look for water stations and first aid stations to refill reusable containers. Plan your schedule ahead of time so you’re not wandering aimlessly.
Characters
I might be biased, but my favorite part of Renfaire is interacting with the characters. My family attends as part of a guild: performers who portray a specific historical or fictional group (the royal court, military units, fairies, dance troupes, and so on). If you want to immerse yourselves in history or fantasy and enjoy a little shade too, visiting guilds is a must. You might also encounter roving performers and characters out and about. Say hello and ask for a photo!
Entertainment
Most faires have stages with performances throughout the day, as well as an arena for equestrian events like jousting. From aerialists to singers, whip crackers to comedy shows, it can be hard to choose. We like to get food early and arrive at the stage a few minutes before an act finishes in order to get good seats for the next act. And whether you do it via e-payment or bring cash, please tip your performers.
Trinket Trading
My children’s favorite part of faire is trinket trading. This tradition started with cast members giving favors to their friends and guests. Patrons thought it looked fun, started doing it themselves, and now it has spread like wildfire. At many faires, you can spot trinket traders with orange ribbons. Trinkets should be small and inexpensive. Handmade items, like friendship bracelets or painted rocks, are the best! Some faires across the country have started banning trading, since it can be distracting and problematic for vendors trying to sell similar items, so please trinket trade responsibly.
Closing
At the end of the day, Renfaires are about community, shared joy, and making memories. It’s very difficult to do them the “wrong” way, even if you might feel like you did. Take a deep breath and remember the point is to have fun.
Upcoming 2026 Faires
- Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire: July 18- August 16, Snohomish, WA
- Canterbury Renaissance Faire: July 18-26, Silverton, OR
- Camlann Medieval Village: A variety of feast weekends, including Saint James Faire (July 25-26) and Harvest Festival (August 22-23), Carnation, WA
- Cascadia Renaissance Faire: September 5-6, Randle, WA
- Realms Unknown: September 18-20, Woodland, WA
- Spokane Renaissance Faire: October 3-4, Spokane, WA
Others throughout the year:
- Two Rivers Medieval Faire: Mother’s Day Weekend, Cashmere, WA
- Whidbey Island Ren Faire: Whidbey Island, WA
- Faire Du Well: Mt. Vernon, WA
- Sandpoint Renaissance Faire: Sandpoint, ID
-
Source: therenlist.com
