
Jousting isn’t just a great Ren Fest activity, it’s also Maryland’s state sport!
Now that the solar eclipse has passed, let’s move on to the next most exciting event of the summer, one that that will even last into fall: Ren Fest! If you’ve been reading KFDC for awhile, then I don’t need to tell you that the Maryland Renaissance Festival is my very, very, very favorite annual event in the area. And if you’re fairly new here, you can read all about why here, here, here, here, here, here, and here. (Oh, yeah, I dig it that much.)

The happening scene at Revel Grove
But to really understand why it’s so fantastic, you really have to go experience it for yourself. Thus, I’ll just get to the details about this year’s faire…
The merriment begins this Saturday, August 26, and runs every weekend through October 22 in the lovely 16th century-style hamlet of Revel Grove in Crownsville, MD. Hours are 10am – 7pm. Admission is $19/adults, $17/seniors, $8/ages 7-15, free for 6 and under through September 10. After that, tickets go up to $25/adults, $21/seniors, $10/ages 7-15, still free for 6 and under. Multi-day passes that offer a discount are also available. Tickets can be reserved in advance online.

Renaissance-style games for all
Some special events to help you plan:
* August 26-27: Children’s Weekend – FREE admission for ages 15 and under with adult
* September 4: Senior’s Day – FREE admission for ages 62+
* September 9: ASL Interpretation Day
* September 16-17: Celtic Celebration
* September 24-25 – Shakespeare Weekend
* September 30 – October 1: Pirate Adventure Weekend
* October 9: ASL Interpretation Day

Unicorn fairies welcome!
More tips to help you plan:
* Bring a stroller or carrier for little ones, as there’s a lot of walking. I recommend a stroller that navigates over dirt paths easily.
* Get a map and schedule on your way in to help you navigate and plan your day
* If there’s show you really want to see, get to the stage a few minutes ahead of time to get good seats so the kids have a good view.
* You might encounter less crowds on Sunday, when many folks are watching football
* Plan to spend on extras like food, games, and fun for kids (all reasonably priced but it can add up)
* Let the kids dress up! Princesses, knights, fairies, pirates will fit right in.
More information is available on the Maryland Renaissance Festival website.