Starting in 1981, the Scarborough Renaissance Festival has become one of the largest “Ren-festivals” in the US. Running 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturdays + Sundays, April 4-May 24 + Monday, May 25, this year’s festival is packed full of medieval experiences, 200 artisan vendors, and jolly good times. Faire warning — you’re in for a medieval treat.
Hear ye, hear ye
Opening weekend has passed, but there are still seven more chances to party 16th-century style at this 25-acre English-inspired village. Schedule your quest:
- Artisan’s Showcase Weekend | Saturday, April 11–Sunday, April 12
- Barbarian Weekend | Saturday, April 18–Sunday, April 19
- Celtic Weekend & Deaf Awareness Day | Saturday, April 25–Sunday, April 26
- Spring Celebration & Chivalry Weekend | Saturday, May 2–Sunday, May 3
- Flights of Fantasy Weekend & Mother’s Day Weekend | Saturday, May 9–Sunday, May 10
- Legends of the Seas Weekend | Saturday, May 16–Sunday, May 17
- The Last Huzzah! | Saturday, May 23–Monday, May 25
Daily highlights
Watch the 34-time Guinness World Record holder for whip-cracking at the Reveler’s Stage four times a day.
Photo courtesy of Scarborough Renaissance Festival
You will not be bored, milords and ladies. Daily highlights include the 1 p.m. Grande Parade, living chess matches, fire whipping, immersive dance experiences, and nearly half a century of jousting traditions. It’s a knight to remember. Check the full list of shows. Each day concludes with the Village Pub Sing.
New this year:
- A brand-new jousting arena showcases the thrilling armored combat on horseback.
- The new King’s Dungeon is an immersive walk-through attraction exploring Renaissance-era justice.
Feast + foodie approved
It wouldn’t be a festival without a feast. Located around the faire are seven kitchens and 16 pubs + taverns. Popular food items available include turkey legs, Scotch eggs, pastas, stir-fried bowls, quiches, kolaches, Shepherd’s pies, fruit, salads, cheese plates, pastries, funnel cakes, desserts, and the largest Food-On-A-Stick selection in Texas.
- Royal Feast & Jubilee | Sunday, May 17 | 12 p.m. + 4 p.m. | $140 | For the ultimate 45th anniversary experience, nobles are invited to an exclusive four-course meal and champagne toast. Guests will be in the presence of the Royal Court, watch a live performance, and go home with a commemorative goblet.
Don’t miss the daily beer or wine tastings at an additional cost, and of course, all the traditional mead you can savor.
Get thee to the festival
Thousands of lords and ladies from across Texas travel to the festival.
Photo courtesy of Scarborough Renaissance Festival
Don’t be a peasant. Tickets are available online, starting at $34 for adults + $15 for kids. The festival is located at 2511 FM 66, Waxahachie, and parking is free.
