The Connecticut Renaissance Faire is almost here.
Back for its 26th year, this annual faire is a recreation of a 16th-century harvest festival set right in "New England's Olde England," offering an experience that blends history, fantasy and tradition for all ages to enjoy.
Thousands of people from all over New England attend the faire each year, and for 2024, the faire has expanded to include more attractions than ever. With mesmerizing performances, classic fair food and the largest Medieval marketplace in New England, this faire is sure to have something for everyone.
Read below for everything you need to know about what the Connecticut Renaissance Faire has to offer.
When and where is the CT Renaissance Faire?
The faire will run for eight weeks every Saturday and Sunday from Aug. 31 until October 20, as well as Labor Day and Indigenous People's Day. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The faire takes place at the Lebanon Country Fairgrounds at 122 Mack Rd. in Lebanon.
CT Renaissance Faire tickets
Adult tickets for ages 16 and older are $16 each, youth tickets for ages 7-15 are $10 each and children 6 and younger enter for free. Service dogs can enter for free, and all other pets are welcome with proof of a rabies vaccination for $5.
Season passes are $90 for adults, $60 for youth and $25 for pets. The faire also offers VIP tickets at $65 per person for access to perks including fast entry, a VIP tent and complimentary refreshments.
Parking at the faire is free, but the fair said donation to the non-profit organizations which maintain the lot are appreciated. A shuttle is available incase the lots fill.
Tickets can be bought online or at the gate. Cash and card are accepted in person. All sales are final, meaning the faire does not offer refunds or exchanges, even for weather events.
Ticket specials at the CT Renaissance Faire
On Saturday, Aug. 31, all Lebanon residents with proof of a Lebanon address receive complimentary admission for Neighbor Appreciation Day.
Free Kids Day, where all children age 15 or under receive complimentary admission, will be Saturday, Sept. 7.
Guests over 60 and active or prior Military members receive a $2 discount from their general admission ticket daily.
What attractions are at the CT Renaissance Faire?
Fantasy Weekends
Each weekend of the faire has a different theme, bringing with it new shows, exclusive merchants and guest authors that make each weekend uniquely fascinating.
This year's themes include Roses & Romance, Dragons & Adventure and Wizard Weekend.
Activities
Fairgoers can take part in Renaissance-themed activities such as the daily strong man contest, throwing games, the royal maze, tarot card reading and interactive knight experiences, such as the swordplay game Smite the Knight.
While some activities will happen all faire season long, the fantasy weekends also offer surprise contests and things to do. Many activities require an additional fee.
Shows
The Connecticut Renaissance Faire offers a variety of top-notch entertainment from over 30 talented acts across its 12 themed stages, such as the Fairy Hollow Stage and Pirate's Cove.
Performances in this year's line up include comedy bits, circus acts, concerts, knighting ceremonies, magic shows, cosplay demonstrations and jousting shows.
Attendance to all performances is included with the price of admission, but some performers ask for tips.
Renaissance Market
With over 100 season-long artisan vendors and guest merchants for each fantasy weekend, this Renaissance Market is New England's largest Medieval marketplace. Fairgoers can browse unique treasures like handcrafted jewelry, wooden swords, Viking drinking horns and handmade costumes.
After Hours Events
Special after hours events with unique themes happen throughout the faire season. This year, the after hours events are Queen's Knight on Sept. 14, Halloween Party on Oct. 5 and Halloween Knights on Oct. 12. Learn more about each event here.
While after hours events are included with same-day admission to the faire, Queen's Knight and the Halloween Party are restricted to adults only.
Food at the CT Renaissance Faire
Over 20 food vendors will be at the faire, with options ranging from subs to turkey legs. You can finish off your meal with sweets like homemade fudge or kettle corn and wash down your fair food with craft beer or local cider from the on-site pubs. For a full list of food and drink options, see the website.
The Connecticut Renaissance Faire also allows guests to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks. All food containers are subject to inspection when entering or leaving the faire.
Other Information