I won’t go into a long, rambling introduction about this one, because if you’ve been reading KFDC for any length of time longer than a year, you likely already know how I feel about the Maryland Renaissance Festival.
That it’s my hands-down very, VERY favorite annual event in the area. That I’ve adored it since well before I had kids. That I love not just the fun and food and entertainment and amazing people watching it brings, but also that it celebrates eccentricity, welcomes the weird with open arms, and presents all its mirth and delight in an easy, free-flowing way. If you want more specifics on all of that, just go here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, or here. And if you want to enjoy a day of extraordinary fun , just go.
Logistics
The merriment begins this Saturday, August 27, and runs every weekend, rain or shine, through October 23 in the lovely 16th century-style hamlet of Revel Grove in Crownsville, MD. Hours are 10am – 7pm. Through September 11, admission is $24/adults, $21/seniors, $12/ages 7-15, free for ages 6 and under. After that, ticket prices go up to $30/adults, $26/seniors, $15/ages 7-15, still free for 6 and under. Multi-day passes that offer a discount are also available. Like last year, tickets must be reserved in advance online. There are no day-of, in-person ticket sales.
Notable Dates
There are promos and special themes on many weekends. Here’s a quick list, and you can find more info here.
* August 27-28: Children’s Weekend – FREE admission for ages 15 and under with adult
* September 3-4: Romance Weekend — Special events for singles 21+ on 9/3 & partners can renew their commitments in a ceremony on 9/4
* September 5: Seniors day — Free admission for all seniors age 62+
* September 10-11: Celtic Celebration
* September 11 & October 10: ASL Interpretation Days – Selected stage shows will be interpreted in ASL
* September 17-18: Pirate Adventure Weekend
* September 24 & 25: Myth & Magic Weekend
* October 1 & 2: Shakespeare Weekend
KFDC Tips
* Bring a stroller or carrier for little ones, as there is a lot of walking. I recommend a stroller that rolls over rough terrain easily.
* Get a map and schedule on your way in to help you navigate and plan your day, but I recommend not overthinking it; Ren Fest is best experienced with a “go with the flow” mindset.
* If there’s a 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.
* Tickets can sell out, especially on beautiful fall days as the chances to go dwindle. Between that and the online sales only, you might want to reserve further in advance than usual.
* Consider pros and cons to going at different times: Early in the season, crowds are smaller because it’s usually very hot, and the admission fee is lower. Later in the season, the cool, crisp weather and autumn foliage adds some extra splendor to the visit, but also draws the masses.
* Let the kids dress up! Princesses, knights, fairies, and pirates will fit right in.
Maryland Renaissance Festival
Where: Revel Grove | Crownsville, MD ( get directions)
When: Weekends August 28 – October 23, 10am – 7pm
Admission: $24-30/adult, $21-26/senior, $12-15/age 7-15, free/6 & under
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Growing up, Ren Fest-style (2013 & 2021)…
