Not far from Spartanburg, yet several centuries away, we entered another world for the day! I recently took my kids to their first renaissance festival in Charlotte and they had a blast! The Annual Carolina Renaissance Festival and Artisan Marketplace runs through September 30-November 19, 2017 and it is something your family does not want to miss. If roasted turkey legs, artisan shops, and jousting tournaments sound good to you, then read on!
What exactly is the Renaissance Festival?
There is so much to do and see, you will need to plan on spending the day. I found that some of my friends have been coming to this very ren-fest since they were school-age tots, it is that good! A map at the front will guide you to tons of show offerings. Most show times will rotate around again if you happen to miss something you wanted to see.
Maybe we are some nature geeks, but the falconry show is a must! Swooping owls, vultures, hawks, and of course, falcons wow the crowd as you feel the air woosh overhead. The jousting tournament is top notch. Choose your side of the arena to take a seat, and you have chosen your valiant knight. Jousting passes will have you on the edge of your chair! The shields and lance pieces used in the tournament are available for purchase immediately after the show – this was one souvenir my boys simply had to have!
Other attractions are nearly endless: petting farm, rides, games, comedy, magic, pirates, royal courts, Robin Hood, fairies, glass blowing, blacksmiths, pottery making, jewelry, leather works, and on, and on, and on! Check out the full schedule here.
Tips for your visit
Check their website for coupons (some will save you $14). Children under 5 are free. Coupons can be found here.
Prepare for lots of walking, especially through dust and dirt.
Bathrooms are available via port-a-potties, as is a water station.
Mighty tasty food & drinks are available for purchase, outside food is not permitted except on Student Days.
Prepare your kids (and yourself) for large crowds.
Purchase tickets on their website.
16445 Poplar Tent Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078
Open 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Free parking, Rain or Shine
(704) 896-5555
I hope your family enjoys your visit as much as we did!
Jackie Vest is a writer and at-home-mom of two energetic little boys. She enjoys adventuring around the beautiful Upstate, the hilarity of kiddo-raising, outdoor fitness with friends, and her Favorite 5 C’s: cooking, crafting, camping, coffee, and chocolate. You can connect with her via her blog at: JackieVest.com.
