Summer may be winding down, but it’s not too late to check a visit to the Bristol Renaissance Faire off of your bucket list! If you’ve never been, picture the state fair, but instead of betting on horses, you’re betting on which of the two tunic-wearing men sitting on top of them will win the joust. It’s easy to lose track of time at the Renaissance Faire; even if you’re not a history buff, there’s something there for everyone. Check out our list of must-sees at the 2024 Bristol Renaissance Faire.
Shops
Fairy Secrets Lotion Candles
Don’t lie – have you ever dipped a finger or two into the melted wax of a candle? These candles are actually made of lotion, so you can level up your self-care day with one. Including scents such as “Dragon’s Blood” and “Love Spell,” these whimsical candles will set the atmosphere to fit any mood!
Three Bells Tapestries
If Etsy existed in the sixteenth century, these tapestries would be best-sellers. Each piece is beautiful in its own way, with so much detail woven into every item. This shop is definitely worth a look!
The Rabbit Hero
For storytellers at heart, look no further than this booth. “The Rabbit Hero” is a poetic epic that utilizes multiple mediums, from wooden blocks to comic books, to capture the reader’s imagination. Make your own story out of the combined images and let yourself get inspired!
Imaginarium Galleries
If you have a child with you (or are a child at heart), we’d recommend checking out some of the handcrafted dragon shoulder puppets. Each one is different and unique!
Entertainment
MooNie the Magnif’Cent
Even if you’re not a fan of clowns, you’ll enjoy this show — it is anything but traditional! MooNie will crack you up without even saying a word in this immersive comedy experience.
The Sturdy Beggars’ Mud Show
The mud pit is probably the only place you can scream bawdy innuendos without getting a look in your direction. These performers do every show as if it is their last!
The Jousters
Yes — the jousting at the Ren Faire is very much real (including every lance break and shield shatter).
Games
Vegetable Justice
If you aren’t easily offended, seek revenge by tomato at the vegetable justice attraction. An insulter in stockade holes will fuel you with insults while you hurl a tomato at them. It’s all in good fun!
Festival Escape Adventures
Choose from four different Renaissance-themed escape room puzzles.
Archery
Summon your inner Robin Hood and learn how to properly use a bow.
Grub
Turkey Drumstick
This is probably the most iconic thing to get to get — nothing screams “ren faire” like waving a half-eaten turkey drumstick in the air to cheer on a jouster.
Pickle on a Stick
This might sound weird, but after standing in the sun all day, biting into a cold, juicy pickle is one of the most refreshing things. Ever.
Fruit Ice
Another delicious option to cool off from the heat with — get some lemon, orange, or peach sorbetto served in a natural fruit shell.
Look out for
The mini fairy garden
If you squint hard enough, you might just see a woodland sprite fluttering its wings.
The river
If you’re crossing the bridge over the river, look down in the water and you’ll see tons of little turtles swimming alongside the lily pads.
The cast
Plenty of actors are scattered throughout the fair, waiting to trade some Renaissance banter. Feel free to brush up on your 16th-century dialogue while you chat with them throughout your visit.
All of the costumes!
One of our favorite parts of the Ren Faire is the people-watching. So many people get really into it, and it shows in what they are wearing. There’s something really magical about a collective space that embraces imagination and play, so be sure to enjoy all of the fanciful outfits you see while you’re at the Faire.
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