Step back in time and immerse your family in the wonder of the Ohio Renaissance Festival! Held annually on weekends from late August through October (plus Labor Day), this festival transforms Renaissance Park in Waynesville, Ohio, into a bustling 16th-century English village. If you’re looking for a fun-filled day the whole family can enjoy, here’s how to make the most of your visit.
What Makes the Ohio Renaissance Festival Special?
As soon as you enter the festival gates, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. The village is alive with the sights and sounds of the Renaissance era – knights in shining armor, jesters performing tricks, and artisans crafting beautiful objects.
One of the festival’s highlights is the nonstop entertainment. Stages scattered throughout the village host a variety of performances, from comedy shows to fire jugglers and traditional musicians. Full Armored Joust and the Wheel of Death performances were among our favorites. The excitement of the knights’ battle and the breathtaking stunts kept us on the edge of our seats.
For families, there’s a dedicated kids’ area where children can engage in hands-on activities, making it easy to keep little adventurers entertained throughout the day. They can try archery or axe-throwing or take a ride on a medieval-style ride. And don’t be surprised if your kids enjoy costumed characters who roam the grounds, ready to chat (in character!) or pose for photos.
The food is another highlight – the iconic giant turkey leg is a must-try and a fun, shareable snack for the family. There are many options from different cuisines, while on cooler autumn days, a warm bread bowl filled with soup hits the spot. Sweet treats like funnel cakes, candied nuts, and cheesecake on a stick add the perfect finishing touch to the feast.
Walking through the festival area, you’ll discover plenty of shops reflecting the era’s craftsmanship. Artisans sell handmade items like fantasy jewelry, leather goods, elf ears, blowing horns, wooden wands, and cosplay costumes. Some shops have onsite demonstrations like glass blowing or ironwork.
Honestly, you lose track of time while wandering around the festival – there are shows, shops, and activities everywhere. When you return to the car at the end of the day, you realize how exhausted you are!
Planning for a Smooth Experience
To make the most of your day, it’s best to arrive early. Let me share our experience. We first visited the festival when our daughter was four months old. Getting ready with a baby and making the drive, well, we didn’t arrive until midday. Actually, we had no idea it would be such a crowded event! What should have been a 10-minute drive after exiting the highway took us almost two hours due to traffic. That’s why my biggest advice for you is to arrive early – don’t get stuck in traffic like we did!
Also, there’s usually a line at the entrance for tickets. If you don’t want to wait, buy your tickets online beforehand. Don’t forget to grab a map at the entrance, so you can keep track of showtimes and locations throughout the day.
The festival is held rain or shine, so checking the weather forecast beforehand can help you dress appropriately. Comfortable shoes are a must, as the village paths are mostly gravel and require a lot of walking.
Each weekend has a unique theme, like Time Travelers, Pirate Adventure, or Feast of Fools, and many festivalgoers wear costumes related to the theme. Costumes aren’t required, but they add to the fun. Your kids might love dressing as knights, princesses, or fairies – just keep it comfy for walking and weather-appropriate.
While most vendors accept cards, bringing some cash is helpful for small purchases and tipping performers. No outside food or drink is allowed, but you can bring an empty water bottle to refill at fountains, especially on warmer days.
Making Memories That Last
By the end of the day, your family will have laughed, explored, and perhaps even found a new favorite tradition. Whether it’s watching a jousting match, finding a one-of-a-kind handmade souvenir, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the Ohio Renaissance Festival offers a truly magical experience. So, gather your crew, plan your visit, and dive into this Renaissance adventure.
If you’ve visited the Ohio Renaissance Festival before, I’d love to hear about your favorite moments! Share your experiences in the comments below.