To step into a world where fairies, kings, and knights coexist: that’s the idea behind every Renaissance Faire. Vendors and actors alike work to curate an experience reminiscent of the renaissance era, taking inspiration from fairy tales sourced from around the world.
The original Renaissance Fair began in 1963 in the State of Florida. Over the past 58 years, the living-history event has traveled the nation. Utah’s Renaissance Faire- Located at Thanksgiving Point- took Place August 27 and 28.

Gallery • 3 Photos

Belle

A living statue attraction collecting tips.

There are many aspects to the curated experience. Costumes–worn by employees and guests alike–have a strict dress code, alcohol is forbidden, and the park has put forth an effort to ensure accessibility. Even the vendors are held to a strict code of items they can sell.

The park opened at 10 AM, yet there were people there an hour early waiting to get in. One would be able to enter by buying tickets or through will call. Those who had bought tickets online were able to enter without needing to wait in line no matter what level of tickets they purchased.

When you first enter it is as if you left the world and entered a completely older world. Vendors and entertainers crowded the streets, the smell of baked bread filled the air, and there was nowhere to rest from complicated sights.

One thing unique about the Renaissance Faire, is its vendors. People from all over the state come to sell their pieces of art. Everything from armor made from real metal based on techniques of old to paintings were being sold. While these hand-crafted items leaned on the expensive side- the cheapest item found was a $5 lavender sach- the quality and care put into them were unparalleled.

One of the first fair-wide events was a tournament between 3 teams: the Freedom Fighter, Salt Lake Crusaders, and an undefeated team who flew in from Texas. Children and adults became fully invested in the tournament and the announcers gave commentary and jokes. Out of the 30 or so players, only one ended up leaving due to an injury.

Another free event was the quest given by King Henry the eighth, and his first wife Catherine of Aragon. When approached, they will give a quest to you. It could be as simple as finding them a flower or seeking a fortune teller for the queen. When completed, you were given a token of gratitude, a pin with the Queen’s portrait.

The royalty also held one of the only COVID precautions . Only a handful of individuals wore masks, there was no screening, nor requirements of vaccination or negative COVID testing. The one rule was that those who were playing royalty requested that faire-goers stayed 6 feet away from them.

There was plenty of food and drink to purchase. One unique vendor sold bread that they had been making at location, while another sold root beer that came in unique containers. While the food was more than appealing, the lines for them would wrap around entire stadiums. You were allowed to bring your own food.

When prompted, those employed by the faire stated that they believed it was an experience for all. Those who came for art, to witness unique theatrical performances, to show off costumes, or to escape from the busy city life. No two people came for the exact same reason.
When the fair comes next year, do not hold yourself back from attending. It’s a fantastical experience with so much to offer.