Our First Renaissance Faire: A Guide for Newbies Who Want to Show Up in Style & Spirit

Marquita Bianca
Jun 10
3 min read

So you’ve heard the whispers of turkey legs, flower crowns, and knights in shining armor — and you’re officially Renaissance Faire curious. Welcome, friend. You’re in good company here because so were we!.

We were invited to attend the 23rd Annual Virginia Renaissance Faire and had the best experience. I’m happily creating this guide to help you feel prepared, inspired, and ready to show up for a fully immersed day of jousting, artisan markets, and possibly your secret urge to want to speak in an English accent all day. Either way it's all magical and good Fun!

What Even Is a Renaissance Faire?

Imagine stepping into a time portal that leads to a vibrant village filled with costumed characters, live entertainment, and handcrafted everything. Renaissance Faires (or Ren Faires, for the insiders) are immersive outdoor festivals that celebrate the art, culture, and community of the Renaissance period — with a healthy splash of fantasy and modern flair.

It’s part history, part cosplay, part community theatre… all joy.

Dress the Part — Or Not (But You’ll Probably Want To)

You don’t have to dress up, but let’s be real — it’s way more fun if you do.

Newbie-friendly costume tips:

Start simple: A flowy skirt or linen pants, a peasant-style blouse, boots, and a belt go a long way. Add a flower crown or a wide-brimmed hat and you’re golden.
Thrift + layer: Ren Faire fashion is forgiving — think earthy layers, corsets over button-downs, pirate scarves, and vests. Raid your closet or local thrift store.
Lean into a vibe: Are you a mysterious forest witch? A flirty tavern wench? A dashing rogue? Pick a role and roll with it. The commitment is part of the fun.

P.S. If you go full out — armor, elf ears, leather satchels — you will not be alone.

What to Eat & Drink

You will encounter the legendary turkey leg. You may or may not feel called to eat it.

But also: meat pies, roasted corn, mead, ale, fresh lemonade, and an ever-rotating cast of delightful treats. Eat like you’re a guest at a medieval banquet, because you are.

Pro tip: Bring cash — some vendors are delightfully analog.

Entertainment, Shenanigans, & Side Quests

There is always so much happening.

Jousts & combat shows: Yes, real horses. Yes, actual lances.
Street performers: Musicians, jugglers, fortune tellers, and cheeky comedy shows.
Shopping: Handmade candles, crystal crowns, leather journals, sword-forging, and the kind of artisan soap that changes your whole bathing philosophy.
Workshops & demonstrations: Want to learn to weave a wreath or throw a dagger? You can.

Pro tip: Wander. Get lost. Talk to characters. Say “milady” and “huzzah” with confidence. Play.

Practical Things to Know Before You Go

Tickets: Buy online if you can. Some faires sell out!
Timing: Arrive early to beat the heat and the lines. Many faires run rain or shine.
Footwear: You will walk A LOT. Choose boots or shoes that can handle grass, dirt, and a little dancing.
Sun & hydration: Bring sunscreen and a refillable water bottle. Don’t underestimate the summer sun when you’re in layers and corsets.
Kids & accessibility: Many faires are family-friendly and have shaded rest areas. Check the website for accessibility info if needed.

Go All In (You Won’t Regret It)

The Renaissance Faire is one of the few places where grown-ups are encouraged to play, pretend, and let themselves be a little bit extra. It’s permission to wander off script, laugh loudly, and celebrate the wildly creative corners of yourself that don’t always get center stage.

So say yes to the corset, to the accent, to the impromptu lute dance.

You don’t have to know exactly what you’re doing — just that you’re allowed to belong.