Realm Collections Blog

Renaissance Faires are outdoor gatherings usually done on weekends in the United States and many other parts of the world in which this historical period is commemorated. These are usually held outdoors with some parks having permanent historical themes while others hold temporary events such as during festivals or carnivals.

Renaissance Faires’ themes are based on the era during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I of England, the reign of Henry VIII, Vikings and pirates. Attendees can join in by wearing costumes such as those worn by the fair’s entertainers and theatrical acts. There are also several arts and crafts for sale as well as festival food to enjoy during the Renaissance Faires.

In the United States, Renaissance Faires made their debut after World War II. It was during this time that Americans’ interest in the culture of medieval and Renaissance culture took flight. In the 1950s through the 1960s, traditional revels were revived through folk music and small events similar to renaissance faires were conducted. Subsequently, these small faires became one big event with the first Renaissance Pleasure Faire with around 8,000 people as attendees came for this fundraiser in 1963. It then became a yearly event in Agoura, California which gave rise to local traditions across America. Today, there are hundreds of Renaissance Faires which are operational throughout the United States and Canada.

The themed activities and acts during Renaissance Faires include jousting and swordplay. There are also themed parks and restaurants with these activities as well as medieval food to enjoy. Visitors can also have a lot of photo opportunities with stocks and pillories displays in Renaissance Faires as background. Some of the most notable fairs across the country which you can visit include the Florida Renaissance Festival, the Arizona Renaissance Festival, King Richard’s Faire, the Great Lakes Medieval Faire, and the New York Renaissance Faire, among many others.

If you plan on attending a Renaissance Faire soon, get inspired and get in costume at realmcollections.com with a colorful and faithful collection of Medieval and Renaissance costumes and accessories.