From chivalrous knights and tankards of ale to handmade wares in the enchanted artisan marketplace and performers taking over a dozen stages, the Florida Renaissance Festival, which turns 32 this year, is a treasure trove of fun experiences, delicious eats, and so much more.
Beginning February 1 and running for eight consecutive weekends until March 23, Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach is transformed each year into the 16th-century Village of Kimmendale. With a different theme each weekend, the medieval town is teeming with costumed guests for the long-running celebration that attracts people from near and far. Whether the fair is an annual tradition or a brand-new experience, here is everything visitors need to know about this family-friendly Renaissance fair.Whether the fair is an annual tradition or a brand-new experience, here is everything visitors need to know about this family-friendly annual event.
When Can You Go
The renowned Florida Renaissance Festival is taking over Quiet Waters Park for eight themed weekends from 10 a.m. to sunset. The festival dates are Feb 1-2, Feb. 8-9, Feb. 15-16, Feb. 22-23, March 1-2, March 8-9, March 15-16, and March 22-23.
For those traveling from out of town for the special event, check out Greater Fort Lauderdale’s diverse hotel options, from family-friendly (and pet-friendly) beach hotels to luxury resorts near the park grounds. While visiting, check out the local restaurant scene and other area attractions.
Entertainment for the Entire Family
Between live demonstrations and shows, interactive games (some involving water), and rides, there is something for everyone in the family at the Florida Renaissance Festival. Play games of chance and skill that challenge both young and old alike, such as archery, Jacob’s Ladder, Royal Darts, making wax hands, throwing produce at the Tomato Torture, climbing the King’s Rock Tower, and the Jester’s Jup Bungee Jump. New experiences at the fair include the King’s Dungeon and gem mining. (Note: Games and rides are not included in the festival entry fee and must be purchased separately.)
Daily 16th-century-style demonstrations include battles between knights, cannon firings from the H.M. Royal Artillery, projectiles launched from a trebuchet, and glassblowing. Get lost in the era's excitement while making modern-day memories with loved ones.
Each day of the festival features live music and stage plays. Performers include the vaudeville sibling troupe Clan Tynker, a master falconer from the Edged Feather Experiences, the international Celtic and folk band Gaêlica, pirate impersonators Krewes Korner, and more. Check the full calendar of events for the Florida Renaissance Festival to see what is in store.
If shopping is your favorite pastime, you’ll find one-of-a-kind items here—the Merchants of Brittany will set up shop selling everything from handmade jewelry and Renaissance-style attire to wooden swords and fairy wings. Complete your medieval look with a henna tattoo or a hair braid, two services offered at the festival, and gasp in awe at the sword swallower performing multiple times per day.
Medieval-Style Ale & Grub
Food and drink are not in short supply at this Renaissance party, featuring vendors to appease every taste bud. Enjoy old-world dishes from a dozen vendors serving meals such as meat pies and Polish sausage, fast food items like hamburgers, hot dogs, and fries, as well as Greek and Latin cuisine.
Craving something sweet? Choose from giant cookies, cotton candy, caramel and candy apples, snow cones, or strudel from eight vendors satisfying everyone’s sweet tooth. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.
Wash down each meal or snack with an ice-cold glass of cider or beer, or perhaps a frozen cocktail or mead. Nonalcoholic options include smoothies, magical color-changing lemonade, and a variety of coffee drinks.
Tickets, Parking & More
Event organizers recommend purchasing tickets online in advance, as they predict tickets will sell out quickly. Tickets are also available at the on-site box office. Prices range from $37 for adults to $15 for children ages six to 11. Children five and younger are admitted free. Special seasonal passes are available for $148 for adults and $58 for children. Group ticket rates are also offered but must be purchased in person at the box office. Pub Crawl tickets are available for $38 for adults 21 and older. Parking is $1.50 per vehicle, and VIP parking is available for $25.
Guests are encouraged to wear Renaissance-style costumes to the event, and closed-toed shoes or sneakers are recommended for this outdoor park venue.
Once you have selected an outfit, rally your family and friends for an adventure filled with pirates, knights, and plenty of pixie dust at the Florida Renaissance Festival!