The Renaissance Festival is a fun filled fall event that excites anyone with a love for ambient music, themed activities, delicious food and medieval attire. Those interested in jousting, dancing and other medieval performances would find an activity to enjoy. This festive event takes place in Annapolis, Maryland, during the fall season, lasting around three months.
As the festival comes to an end for the 2023 year, students reflect on their experiences attending the festival. Many talked excitedly about the variety of events and entertainment available at the Renaissance Festival.
“I like to go for several different reasons, but the main reason is the experience. You see and experience a lot there: hawk hunting, jousting, comedians, dances, singers. The list goes on and on,” said sophomore Piper Zuniga.
The festival has many different events and a variety of activities to offer, suitable for anyone. Passionate about the festival, vendors and performers dedicate their work to enhance the visitors’ experiences. This may make buying items from the vendors worth it if visitors are interested in hand-crafted and themed pieces.
“There was a lot going on. I felt all the events were pretty interesting, and all the vendors were selling items that were hand made,” sophomore Andrew Clemings stated.
The fair is more than just the activities for many that attend. People from all over the country come together to enjoy this fair. Full of people with shared interests, the environment was welcoming and filled with constant excitement.
“It’s a very friendly environment, except for all the bees, and everyone is welcome,” said junior Hannah Ryan.
Another way visitors immerse themselves into the community and renaissance theme is by wearing fantasy medieval inspired costumes.
“I don’t go as full out as other people, but dressing up makes it so much more fun. If you’re afraid of standing out, then I suggest definitely wearing a costume! Most people dress up and it makes the experience so much more immersive when you do,” said Ryan.
Wizards and knights roam the grounds.The large size of the fair requires it to take place outside, where the heat can really affect the visitors. The moment feels most alive towards the evening when the sun’s heat isn’t beating down.
“It’s best to go when it isn’t hot,” noted junior Sam Switzer.
The chill of an autumn evening can also make wearing costumes much more comfortable. Many students had attended the festival before, indicating the fun experiences which encouraged them to continue returning the following years.
“I have been to the festival many times. I probably go once a year if I can. We usually go when the festival comes to town,” explained junior Faith Nieves.
Based on the students’ experiences attending the festival, this year was just as entertaining as their previous experiences.
The Renaissance Festival, full of events, costumes, food, and merchandise, brings joy to fantasy enjoyers of all ages.