Walking through the castle gates of The Renaissance Festival, I was reminded of the magical experience it provides for people of all ages.

Going to the Renaissance Festival (Renfest) has been a family tradition of mine ever since I was five-years-old. Of course, for older kids, the Renfest has lost some of its charm, especially if you’re not really into the full jester or knight costume in the summer heat. However, there is no shortage of fun activities and sideshow events to entertain yourself.

The festival is roughly the size of the Minnesota State Fair, although tickets are pricier and cost $20.95 per person. The layout is a bit confusing since there isn’t one specific section for shops and one section for food. Instead, they are peppered all over the fair, which makes it hard to find the specific meal you’re looking for.

I’ve been going to the Renfest for roughly 13 years, and I have yet to try half of the food they offer. Food ranges from spinach pies, gyros, bacon mac n’ cheese to their famous turkey legs. All of it delicious and slightly overpriced, which is typical for all fair food.Renaissance Festival entertainer juggles bowling
pins during the 10 year running act, “The Danger Committee.”

Along with large numbers of fried food, there is entertainment at the fair. There are rides, but they’re mostly meant for kids under the age of 11 and aren’t anything special. For older festival-goers, there are plenty of comedy and talent shows that are free to watch and occasionally participate in. The times and locations of events are posted on a map you can get when entering the festival.

Many of the shops at the Renfest have goods made by artists such as quilts, jewelry, walking sticks and even armor and swords. Some will be made right in front of you, such as wax hands and even glass blowing. Many of these goods are very expensive but are fun to look at and ask the artists about. Almost every one of the employees at the Renfest are in character, adding to the fun and overall experience of the festival.

For those interested in attending, the festival runs from Aug. 19 to Oct. 1. Tickets are $20.95 and $12.50 for kids.