Hear ye, hear ye! If you’ve ever wondered what it’d be like to step back in time, this is the DFW fest for you. The Scarborough Renaissance Festival is a plunge into the past for DFW natives and area visitors alike.
While it’s completely possible that I’m a rare breed in my fascination over butter churning and consuming food with my hands, the Scarborough Renaissance Festival has something for everyone. Whether you’re diving right in, decking yourself out with renaissance garb or simply dipping your toes in the water and grabbing a turkey leg, this two-month-long, annual Waxahachie experience shouldn’t be skipped.
GET READY
On any Saturday or Sunday in April and May between 10 am – 7 pm, step back in time to the ‘village’ of Scarborough. Tickets are good for an entire day at the festival and land at $28 per adult and $13 for children. This is no pop-up marketing ploy either. The commitment exhibited by the performers, vendors, and attendees makes for the most magical time, truly allowing you to party like it’s 1561.
Here’s the thing. You can come as you are. Tons of people prep for this year-round, pulling out the perfect ensemble for the occasion, but it’s totally fine if you aren’t feeling up to the challenge. For those curious or unsure, hop on in and feel it out. There are costume rental spots and vendors selling accessories if you change your mind.
Small bags are allowed, but just need to be checked upon entry. Come with cash to avoid the extra ATM fee. The local watering holes only accept cash for their tasty ales and wine.
AIM
After parking in a massive field on the outskirts of the festival, you’ll approach a castle-like entrance, likely hearing horns and bagpipes playing from over the wall. Pick up your tickets and prepare to enter the renaissance era.
You’ll see everything from fairies to elves to Daenerys Targaryen herself wandering the grounds. 90% of the structures are permanent with incredibly authentic architecture, leaving you wanting to rent one of the rooms upstairs.
FIRE
There are over 200 performances daily – ranging from fire whippers to sword throwers to flying freak shows. There are a few ways to confront this conundrum. Pick up a schedule and direct yourself to your preferred showcases OR wing it and wander around the grounds to see what sorcery you can stumble upon. The pro tip is taking the second rec.
Obviously, you must indulge in a juicy turkey leg and savory chicken on a stick. Grab a leg and an ale to soak it down with and plop yourself alongside a musical stage for optimal people watching. (If you’re not a fan of meat, don’t worry — The festival actually has quite a few vegan and vegetarian options!).
Last but not least, there’s a daily jousting tournament where you can pick your house, hooting and hollering with the rest of the crowd. There’s a wine tasting that takes place a stone’s throw away from the arena where you can sip from a safe distance if you so choose.
Well, what are you waiting for? Get out there and revel in the realm.