Arizona Renaissance Festival Returns – Jousting, Feasting & Medieval Fun
Hear ye, hear ye! February in Arizona means the gates to a 16th-century village are opening once again. The Arizona Renaissance Festival is back, bringing knights, princesses, and merrymakers galore to the desert. If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a fairytale or cheering at a live jousting match, this family-friendly festival is a must-visit event this month.
When & Where: A Journey to Fairhaven
When: The festival runs from early February through late March: open on Saturdays and Sundays (plus Presidents’ Day Monday) – rain or shine. Gates typically open at 10 a.m. and the revelry continues until 6 p.m. each event day.
Where: At the dedicated Renaissance Festival fairgrounds in Gold Canyon, AZ, east of Phoenix, just off US-60. The site transforms into the Village of Fairhaven, a sprawling 50-acre medieval town nestled in the foothills of the Superstition Mountains. There’s ample free parking on-site, and you’ll know you’ve arrived when you see lords and ladies in full costume heading for the gates!
What to Expect: Entertainment Fit for a King (and Queen)
Once inside, you’ll be immersed in an immersive Renaissance experience. Expect to spend an entire day (or more) exploring:
- Live Jousting & Shows: Grab a seat at the jousting arena to cheer on armored knights on horseback as they charge and clash with lances three times daily. Around the grounds, find 16 stages hosting continuous live entertainment – from comedic mud-slinging shows and bawdy tavern singing to daring acrobats, jugglers, and magicians. There’s never a dull moment, and many performers pull audience members into the act!
- Artisan Marketplace: Over 200 shops and stalls offer handcrafted treasures. Browse medieval clothing, leather armor, jewelry, pottery, and swords. Watch demonstrations by glassblowers, blacksmiths, and woodcarvers creating goods as in days of old. You can even buy a flower crown or wooden mug to get into the spirit.
- Feasting & Food: Follow your nose to the food stands serving hearty Renaissance fare. Devour a giant roasted turkey leg (the festival’s iconic snack), sip on ale or mead out of a carved horn, and sample foods from around the “world” – steak on a stake, bread bowl stews, steamed artichokes, and decadent desserts. Don’t miss the cinnamon-roasted almonds; the sweet aroma wafts through the village all day.
- Games & Rides: Try your hand at axe-throwing, archery, or the castle climbing wall, and let the kids enjoy old-time carnival games and people-powered rides. Yes, the rides are powered by real people – like the roaring crowd-favorite Voyage to the New World swing and the hilarious Crow’s Nest barrel ride. All rides and games maintain the period vibe (no electric motors here!).
Themed Weekends & Costumes
Each weekend, the Arizona Ren Fest spices things up with special themes. The lineup is expected to include favorites like Pirate Invasion Weekend, Time Travelers (Steampunk) Weekend, and Celtic Weekend, among others. Themes bring extra contests, parades, and cosplayers – one weekend you’ll see the village overrun by pirates shouting “Arrr!”, and another you might spot Doctor Who or Star Wars characters mingling with royalty (it’s all in good fun). Check the festival’s website for the specific themed weekend schedule and plan your visit to match your interests.
Dress the Part: Dressing up (cosplay) isn’t required, but it definitely adds to the fun. Many attendees come in costume as royalty, peasants, knights, fairies, or fantasy characters. Don’t be shy – even a simple flower crown or knight’s tunic (available for purchase at the gate or inside) can get you into the spirit. Plus, costumed guests often get more interactive attention from the villagers (expect plenty of “Good morrow, milord/milady!” greetings). Comfortable shoes are a must, costume or not – the village streets are dirt and you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Tips for a Legendary Day
- Discount Tickets: Discount tickets are available at the service counter of Bashas' and Food City stores across Arizona.
- Plan Your Shows: Grab a schedule at the entrance and note show times for must-sees, like the joust or the popular Ded Bob comedy show (trust us, Ded Bob’s “dead”pan humor fills up seats). There’s so much entertainment that it’s impossible to see it all in one day – prioritize your favorites.
- Bring Cash: Many vendors accept cards, but having some cash for games, tips (it’s polite to tip street performers you enjoy), or smaller vendors is handy. ATMs are on site, but save on fees by coming prepared.
- Sun & Comfort: February can bring anything from crisp mornings to warm afternoons. Wear sunscreen and maybe a light jacket for the morning that you can shed by midday. If you’re going in costume, ensure it’s something you won’t swelter in. There are water stations and misting areas – stay hydrated, especially if you’re partaking in those ales.
- Family Friendly: The festival is very family-friendly, with only a few shows labeled as rated “R” (risqué humor) in the schedule. There’s a dedicated kids’ play area and petting zoo. Strollers can navigate the grounds, though it’s unpaved. If the kiddos get tuckered out, midday lull (around 1-2 p.m.) is a nice time to find a shady spot and watch a quieter musical act to recharge.
The Arizona Renaissance Festival is an unforgettable adventure back in time. From the moment you pass through the castle gates, you’ll be greeted with “huzzah!” and enchanted by the sights and sounds of a bygone era. So polish your crown, gather your merry crew, and head to Fairhaven for a day of feasting and festivities.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more event highlights and medieval merriment – we’ll see you there, m’lords and m’ladies!
Huzzah!
