The Carolina Renaissance Festival will return to Huntersville this fall for its 32nd season of medieval-themed entertainment. The festival will run for eight weekends, opening Saturday, October 4, and continuing through Sunday, November 23.
The festival transforms a 25-acre “storybook village” north of Charlotte into a recreation of a 16th-century European marketplace. Visitors will see cottages, castles, pubs, and stages filled with theater, music and games. More than 300 costumed characters, including knights, peasants, fairies and royalty will roam the grounds and interact with guests, making every visit feel like stepping into another era.
Among the attractions are the Tournament Joust, where armored knights clash in displays of speed and chivalry, and Bird of Prey demonstrations featuring falcons, hawks and owls in flight. The Living Mermaids will also return, performing underwater shows for children. New musicians, circus acts, and artisans will join returning favorites to create a full schedule of entertainment throughout the day.
The artisan marketplace will feature more than 140 merchants selling handmade jewelry, blown glass, woven garments, musical instruments and more. Craftspeople will demonstrate traditional techniques, and visitors can even try blacksmithing at the Dragon Forge.
Adventures for all ages include people-powered rides and games of skill such as castle wall climbing, Da Vinci’s flying machine and tomato throwing at comedic performers. Adults will also have the chance to take part in activities such as archery and ax throwing. Guests are encouraged to come in costume and rentals will be available at the Belrose Costume Shop, allowing everyone to join in the spirit of the festival.
Food is another centerpiece of the festival. Attendees can enjoy turkey legs, steak-on-a-stake, bread bowl stews, and sweet treats from the bakery and chocolate shoppe. Drinks will include craft ale, honey mead, medieval margaritas and Pepsi. Gluten-free and vegetarian options will also be available.
The festival will be held rain or shine every Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Parking will be free, courtesy of Harris Teeter. Tickets are available online while supplies last. Prices are $36 for adults and $22 for children ages 5 to 12. Children 4 and under will be admitted free.
Located off Highway 73 at Poplar Tent Road between I-77 and I-85, the Carolina Renaissance Festival remains one of the region’s most beloved fall traditions. Organizers describe it as a destination for quality entertainment that offers visitors a chance to leave the modern world behind and spend a day immersed in history, imagination and play.
This article perfectly captures the magic of the Carolina Renaissance Festival! The detailed description makes me eager to experience the costumes, food, and medieval fun. A truly exciting event for the whole family!