Step into a world of wonder as the Connecticut Renaissance Faire celebrates 27 years of magic, merriment, and memories.

Since 1999, the Faire has welcomed guests to a bustling 16th-century harvest festival where history and fantasy come alive. Whether you’re planning a magical family outing, hunting for handcrafted treasures, or simply craving a turkey leg and craft brew, your next great fall adventure begins here.

Explore 100+ artisan shops overflowing with handmade goods, rare finds, and gifts you won’t see anywhere else.
Experience live entertainment on 12 stages with music, comedy, acrobatics, jousting, and interactive shows for all ages.
Let the kids become knights, while grown-ups enjoy hearty food, refreshing drinks, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Come in costume, or come as you are - everyone’s welcome, and the more you lean in, the more fun you’ll have.

Join the thousands who return year after year to the Faire that’s become a true New England tradition.

Affordable. Immersive. Unmissable.

Make this fall legendary at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire.

Royal Family and Market Weekend:

Celebrate tradition and furry family fun at the Royal Family & Market Weekend!

Join us for a royal celebration of family and furry friends. This weekend, bring your furry friends and dress them up in costume for our “Pet Costume Contest” and “Tricks for Treats” competition. You dog will also enjoy our “Musical Sit” game.

Market lovers can indulge in an artisan shopping experience with unique and handcrafted goods. Shop till you drop and collect Market Receipts that earn you free General Admission tickets. Don’t forget to turn in your receipts for a chance to receive our rewards!

Saturday:

Neighbor Appreciation Day: Join us for our annual Neighbor Appreciation Day at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! As a thank you to our amazing community, we’re offering free admission to all Lebanon residents and their children. Simply bring a driver’s license or state-issued ID with a Lebanon address, or a household bill (electric, gas, water, etc.) with a Lebanon address to receive your complimentary ticket. If you’re bringing a child (7-15), they can also enjoy free admission when accompanying a parent or guardian from Lebanon. Children six and under are always free! Don’t miss out on this special day dedicated to our wonderful neighbors.

Pet Costume Contest: Dress up your furry friend in a magical costume and join us for the Pet Costume Contest at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! Show off your pet’s enchanting costume and compete against other fantasy-themed pets. Please note that all dogs need to have proof of rabies vaccination to enter the Faire. Don’t miss out on the chance to share the magic of the Renaissance with your beloved companion! 

Activities and Things to Do:

Adamo Ignis: Fire & Danger:

Back for 2025! Aug 30 thru Sept 28! Adamo Ignis means ‘to love flame’, exactly what you’ll do when you see the hot stunts in this show! Throughout time, human beings have been drawn to fire and here Adamo Ignis continues our oldest tradition of gathering to the flame, but with added elements of danger and dance. Join her for fire eating, fire breathing, fire dancing, and more and she’ll have you leaping out of your seat as she leaps into your heart!

Armored Combat Demo:

Witness the epic battles of the Knights of Gore in full plate armor, as they charge into a medieval brawl right before your eyes. Feel the excitement and adrenaline rush as the knights clash swords and beat the living daylights out of each other. You won’t want to miss this thrilling Armored Combat Demo! Check the schedule when you arrive and get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire.

Bone Dallaire:

NEW for CTRF! All 8 Weekends Find him in the lanes throughout the shire! Bone Dallaire is he oldest and most infamous Thespian and playwright of the stage! He has ” almost ” worked with the most elite actors of all time! His notorious Soliloquies far out match that of the “hack” William Shakespeare! Come visit with this boastful comedic master thespian who is a patron of the arts and a lover of all things beautiful.

Bone Dallarie’s Arts Academia:

NEW and LIMITED! Aug 30 thru Sept 1 & Sept 27 thru Oct 5 only! A GRAND WELCOME from the Master Thespian!

“Hello! It is I, Bone Dallaire, here! Master Thespian, Consummate Actor, and Lover of all things Beautiful! Do not simply stand there with your mouth agape! Your skeletal heart - ahem, I mean, my skeletal heart! - is overflowing with joy to welcome you! Did you hear that? I SAID JOY! Because here, at my magnificent Academy, we don’t just learn to act. We learn to be. As I always declare: ‘If all the world’s a stage… only you can play you!’ Now, let the grand prologue begin!”

Why You MUST Enroll!

Our motto is “Love Inspires Magic!” (AMOR INSPIRAT MAGIAM), and trust me, darling, you’ll be positively overflowing with both! We believe that the most powerful performances don’t come from your scripts, they come from the glorious, chaotic mess of your own brilliant self.

Boom Boom Shake:

Returning for 2025! Sept 6 thru Oct 19! Get ready to experience a cultural explosion with Boom Boom Shake at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! This Middle Eastern-inspired show will have you dancing to world percussion beats and entranced by unforgettable guitar and violin melodies. Don’t miss the mesmerizing bellydancers as they captivate with fiery veil dances and intricate movements. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the rhythm of Boom Boom Shake!

Femme Celtique:

NEW! Opening Weekend Only! Haunting bagpipes. Thunderous percussion. Two powerhouse performers channeling ancient magic into every beat.

Femme Celtique combines the allure of Coreyanne Armstrong’s haunting bagpipes with the mystic rhythms of Meaghan Fuller’s driving percussion - beckoning you to join the dance. With almost 40 years combined on pipes and drums, these two sirens of the stage will weave their spell, captivating the senses as you’re transported to medieval times, days of enchantment, and nights of fire.

Knight’s Encampment:

Step into the world of Knights and Chivalry at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! Join Lord Jeffery and his valiant group of Knights as they teach you the art of combat, the intricacies of armor and weapons, and the secrets of chainmail making. You’ll find them stationed by the Joust Field, ready to share their knowledge with you. Whether you’re a seasoned warrior or a curious novice, this is an experience you won’t want to miss! So grab your sword and shield and join us at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire for an adventure that will transport you back in time.

Knighting Ceremony with the King & Queen:

Receive your accolades from royalty at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! Young knights and ladies can present themselves to King Alfred and Queen Beatrice on the Sovereign Stage to be honored for their noble deeds. This exciting event happens just before the Royal Parade and provides a great photo opportunity for parents. Don’t miss your chance to see your child recognized by royalty at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire!

Knotty Nauticals:

NEW! Aug 30 thru Sept 28 only! After 21 years, the wait is finally over…

Knotty Nauticals is returning to New England! That’s right - our fiery, funny, family-friendly (and occasionally completely inappropriate) pirate circus is coming home-ish at long last! We may have started our journey in Massachusetts, but we’re docking the ship just next door… at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire this fall!

Starting late August through all of September, you can catch us the first five weekends bringing the heat - literally! We’ll be performing:

Our world-traveled, family-friendly show - featuring high-seas antics, fire eating, and the ever-dangerous flaming rope walk!

And for the grown-ups… our legendary NAUGHTY SHOW: bold, bawdy, and not for the faint of heart. (You’ve been warned)

21 years later and the show is officially of legal age - and we’re celebrating the only way we know how: with FIRE, BEERS, LAUGHS, and CHEERS.

Misfits of Avalon:

Classic Favorites! Sept 6th thru 28th! Get ready to be swept away by the enchanting sounds of The Misfits of Avalon! This talented Celtic music group has been captivating audiences at Renaissance Faires and traditional music festivals throughout New England for over a decade. Featuring Brian Weiland on the hammered dulcimer and mandolin, Max Cohen on guitar, and for select shows, the astonishingly brilliant young wizard of the violin Aiden Weiland, this is a musical experience not to be missed. Lose yourself in the haunting melodies and lively rhythms of Celtic music as The Misfits of Avalon transport you to a world of magic and wonder. Catch them at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire and let the music take you on a journey of the soul!

Rover’s Way:

New for 2025! Aug 30 thru Sept 7 only! Rover’s Way invites you on a musical journey. This duo brings together the folk music traditions of many lands with multiple instruments and dynamic harmonies, along with stories behind the music and their adventures on the road. From the toe-tapping tunes of the Newfoundland Coast, to the rousing pub songs of the Emerald Isle, historic tales from the New World, and even a few songs from their own pens.

Shank Painters:

Aug 30, 31 & Sept 1! One Weekend only! Get ready to hoist the Jolly Roger with your favorite sea-farin’ scallywags, the Shank Painters! This swashbuckling band from Portland, ME will have you singing and dancing to their sea shanties all day long. With their blood-bound commitment to rouse your inner pirate, the Shank Painters will have you shouting “Yo ho ho!” and raising a tankard to the high seas. Don’t miss out on this epic adventure at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire!

Shelli Buttons – Aerialist:

Returning Favorite! Aug 30 thru Sept 14 only! Don’t miss the dazzling and delightful Shelli Buttons at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! Witness the incredible skills of this adorable and feisty performer as she takes to the air with breathtaking aerial silks, impresses with her juggling, and balances with unbelievable acro-balance moves. Whether on the ground or in the air, Shelli Buttons is sure to leave you in awe. Join us for a captivating performance that will have you on the edge of your seat at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire!

Spur of the Moment Jousting:

Are you ready for some excitement? Look no further than the Connecticut Renaissance Faire’s “Spur of the Moment” joust show! Marvel at the brightly attired knights as they charge into battle on their valiant steeds, engaging in thrilling games that test their precision and timing. From rehearsed challenges to unpredictable moments, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss out on the heart-pumping action of “Spur of the Moment” at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire.

The Crown Players:

Our very own, in-house players! Step back in time to 16th Century England and the court of King Alfred Crawford and Queen Beatrice. They and their entourage have traveled to Lebanshire where the townsfolk, lead by the Lord and Lady Mayor have prepared various festivities. Planned throughout the fairgrounds, The Crown Players have various shows and greetings that you’ll want to see including A Knighting Ceremony for the youth. Interactive Princesses, Pirates, Fairies and a host of others will capture your attention.

The Harlot Queens:

All Weekends! Come see these cunning and mischievous queens at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! With their wit, charm, and captivating voices, these sultry sirens will regale you with tales of their colorful pasts while luring you into their spell. Don’t be surprised if they pick your pocket or convince you to pose for some “artistic” photos. But don’t worry, it’s all in good fun! Join us for a captivating performance that will leave you wanting more, more, more.

The Longshanks:

NEW! August 30 thru Sept 14 only! Come meet Mistdam Kalisto & Lady Mhera Telsinger! These gentle giants will be roaming the grounds to entertain with their grace & poise on acro-stilts. They’re sure to be a delight for all ages & bring a smile from on high. And be sure to catch Mhera’s show to hear tall tales of magic & mayhem from adventures in the northern woods.

The Lord of the Sword:

Back for 3 weekends in 2025! Aug 30 to Sept 14 only! Comedy, juggling, sword swallowing, and mayhem at its finest! The Lord of the Sword – known throughout as the boldest, knife juggler and sword swallower, in the land…just so happens to be out for the day. But don’t worry. His trusty fool will do anything to keep the show going, and save his Lord’s reputation. Will he charm the townsfolk (that’s you) and keep the Lord’s show (and reputation) alive – or will surprises be afoot?

Back for a second year-Jacob’s thrilled to bring his world class juggling to you-but this time with a story driven twist. Come see what he’s been creating all winter.

The Rat Catcher:

Robin Hood Favorite now at ALL 8 Weekends of CTRF! Plagued by nothing, The RatCatcher is here to defy tradition with her love of rodents. Join her in an unconventional journey of motherhood, mischief, and might as she brings wholesome and comedic entertainment to the lanes and redefines what it means to be a rat catcher in the Renaissance era.

The Saucy Sailor:

Every day in the lanes! Ahoy there, mateys! Get ready for a rollicking good time with The Saucy Sailor at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! Join Jeffrey Tanner as he stumbles from pub to pub in Pirate’s Cove, regaling all with his sea shanties and bawdy humor. Don’t miss out on the chance to sing along and laugh out loud at this hilarious and entertaining show. Come enjoy the festivity of the shire and let The Saucy Sailor transport you to a world of high seas and adventure!

Throne of Games:

New for 2025! All 8 Weekends! He’s back! Join everyone’s favorite host, James Clever, as he embarks on an all-new, fantastic adventure called a Game Show where contestants have a chance at winning prizes. Whether it’s The Egyptian House, The Newly-Wed Game, or everyone’s favorite; Feudal Feud, every show brings a different game, different challenges and interactive fun and memories for all.

Warriors of the Green Sash:

Adventurers! Are you looking to enhance your cosplay immersion at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire? Visit Grønheim, the interactive fantasy mercenary encampment brought to you by the warriors of the Green Sash! Step into another realm and another time and see Viking raiders training with swords, shields, and axes. See demonstrations of javelin throwing and archery! Watch the camp cook prepare food over an open fire! Learn about tasks such as spinning and weaving! Hear tales of old lore from the camp storyteller! Come, have fun, sit around the campfire, and tell us about your adventures while learning about some of ours! All are welcome!

Archery Tag!

Do you have what it takes to be victorious on the field of battle? Grab your friends and play against others at the popular Archery Tag game! It’s like “paintball” but with bow and arrow! Archery Tag returns to The Connecticut Renaissance Faire starting August 31st and running thru Oct 20th! Find it in the Midlands just beyond Artisans Bend *Fee applies

Throwing Games – Axes, Daggers, and Spears!

Are you ready to sharpen your warrior skills? Come to the Connecticut Renaissance Faire’s gaming glen and throw some axes, daggers, and spears! This is your chance to test your mettle and train for the coming battle with her Majesty’s enemies.

Listen to the satisfying sound of the axes hitting the target as you learn the art of throwing weapons. It’s not only a fun activity but a great way to improve your focus and coordination. And the best part? It’s suitable for all ages!

Don’t miss out on this exciting activity at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire. A fee applies, so make sure to come prepared. Join us for an unforgettable experience that combines history, fantasy, and entertainment. **Fees Apply

Archery:

Get ready to unleash your inner archer at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! Our thrilling archery activity lets you experience the excitement of wielding a real bow and arrow under the guidance of expert instructors. Perfect your aim and hit the bullseye while feeling like a true Renaissance hero. This activity is perfect for most ages and skill levels. Don’t miss your chance to take aim and have a blast at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! **Fees Apply

Smite the Knight:

Ready to test your sword fighting skills against Her Majesty’s finest warriors? Take on the challenge of Smite the Knight, a thrilling and safe “Boffer” style combat game. Face off against our trained professionals in a fun and interactive swordplay competition. Be the first to land five hits and claim your victory! This activity is perfect for kids and adults alike, so gather your friends and family and join us at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to experience the thrill of medieval combat! **Fees Apply

Tarot Reading:

Experience the mystical world of tarot readings at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! Our tarot readers are highly skilled and intuitive, offering personalized readings that cater to your specific interests and questions. Whether you’re seeking guidance on love, career, or personal growth, our talented readers can offer profound insights and clarity. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the faire, as you delve into the secrets of the universe and unlock the mysteries of your own destiny. Discover the wisdom and magic of tarot readings at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire – an experience you won’t want to miss! ** Fees Apply

Hair Braiding:

Transform your hair into a masterpiece fit for a Renaissance queen or knight at our hair braiding booth! Our skilled artisans will weave intricate designs and patterns into your locks, creating a look that’s both stylish and historically accurate. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your everyday hairstyle or complete your costume for the Connecticut Renaissance Faire, our hair braiding booth is the perfect stop for you. Come and let us help you channel your inner royalty! ** Fees apply

Artisan Demos:

Indulge in the creativity and talent of master artisans at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! Experience firsthand the magic of traditional craftsmanship and watch as skilled artisans bring their creations to life before your very eyes. From blacksmiths to potters, woodcarvers to basket weavers, our artisan demos showcase the best of Renaissance-inspired arts and crafts. Discover the techniques and history behind each art form and take home a unique and handcrafted souvenir. Join us at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire for an immersive and educational experience that celebrates the beauty of traditional craftsmanship.

Knight School:

Join us for an interactive history lesson at the Knights Encampment! Learn about the lives of knights and squires with fun and engaging activities for all ages.

Quest Giving – 11am and 12pm
Don’t Lose your Head: Helmet Demo – 12:30pm
Strike a Pose: Medieval Weapons Demo – 2:15pm
For Honor and Glory: Roles of Knights and Squires Preparing for War – 3:00pm
Knighting Ceremony – 4:30pm.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to step into the world of medieval knights and learn about their way of life. Find us every day behind The Chamberpot Pub on Lord Jeffery’s March.

Souvenir Photos:

Embark on a time-traveling adventure at Festival Fotos, where gallant knights and elegant nobles, saucy wenches, and swashbuckling pirates can all play dress up with costumes and accessories to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir portrait to remember your adventures at CTRF!

Dice Knight Adventures!

Immerse yourself in a thrilling live-action role-playing (LARP) adventure that transforms your Renaissance Faire experience into an epic game! Become a warrior, rogue, or wizard and level up by completing quests and earning experience points. Join us on exciting adventures throughout the day as you navigate the colorful realm of the Renaissance. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable opportunity to take your Faire experience to the next level! *Fee applies.

Themed Weekends:

Step into a world of adventure and excitement with our themed weekends at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! Experience something new each weekend, with fresh merchants, shows, and contests to keep you on your toes. Get ready to step into a different time and place, as we transport you to magical lands and far-off kingdoms.

From the swashbuckling pirates of Pirate’s Weekend to the time travelers of Time Travelers Weekend, each themed weekend brings a unique twist to the Renaissance Faire experience. And don’t forget to dress up and fully immerse yourself in the festivities – costumes are encouraged, and you never know who you might meet along the way!

So mark your calendars and join us for a season of adventure and discovery. With themed weekends that will take you on a journey through time and space, the Connecticut Renaissance Faire is the perfect destination for those seeking something new and exciting. Visit out Fantasy Weekends page for details.

The King’s Dungeon:

Come experience The Kings Dungeon, where you will be winding throughout the corridors of the castle. You will both witness and learn what it was like to be in a medieval dungeon during the Renaissance era. Huzzah!

Caricature Artistry:

Step right up and capture the magic of the Connecticut Renaissance Faire with our amazing caricature booth! Whether you’re looking for a hilarious family portrait or a whimsical portrait of your favorite character, our talented artists will bring your vision to life. Perfect for couples, families, or solo adventurers, our caricature booth is the ultimate way to commemorate your visit to the Faire. So strike a pose and let us work our magic – you’ll walk away with a one-of-a-kind keepsake that’s sure to be treasured for years to come! **Fee Applies

Henna Art:

Looking for a unique way to adorn your skin and embrace the Renaissance spirit? Look no further than our henna booth! Our skilled artists specialize in intricate and beautiful designs that will transport you back in time. From simple and elegant to ornate and intricate, our henna designs are perfect for adding a touch of authenticity to your Renaissance Faire experience.

Our henna artists use only natural, safe ingredients to create stunning, long-lasting designs that will be the envy of all your friends. Whether you’re a first-time henna user or a seasoned pro, we have a design that will suit your tastes and style.

So come visit us at the henna booth and let our artists transform you into a work of art! ** Fees Apply

Blacksmith Demo:

Join us at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire for a special blacksmith demonstration! Watch in amazement as skilled blacksmiths craft Renaissance-era items right before your eyes. You’ll witness the art of blacksmithing in action, using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Our expert blacksmiths will demonstrate their skill and passion for their craft as they use fire, hammers, and anvils to create one-of-a-kind pieces. From intricate details to bold and powerful designs, these craftsmen will show you just what it takes to make weapons and tools in a bygone era.

Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of fantasy and medieval lore, or simply enjoy watching skilled artisans at work, this blacksmith demonstration is not to be missed. So come join us at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire and experience the excitement and artistry of blacksmithing firsthand!

Trinket Trade:

Dive into the beloved tradition of Trinket Trading at our Faire! This isn’t just an activity; it’s an adventure brimming with enchanting exchanges and unforgettable moments.

How to Start: Bring your collection of meaningful trinkets to the Sovereign Stage at 1 PM each day, where our Master Trinket Trader will ignite the trading fun.

What’s a Trinket?: Anything from dainty charms to handcrafted miniatures! Creativity is the key. And if crafting isn’t your thing, no worries! You can purchase trinkets to join the trade.

Trading Etiquette:

Have trinkets to swap.
Propose trades respectfully.
Embrace the Faire spirit with every exchange.

Trinket Trade is more than just swapping items; it’s about sharing kindness, joy, and meaningful connections. Bring trinkets that hold significance—handmade items, natural treasures like gems, or wearable tokens. These trinkets serve as reminders of the wonderful and magical people you meet at the faire.

During the event, share not just trinkets but also kind words, stories, or even a song. It’s a moment to recognize the beauty in human connections and make new friends. The trinket you trade might be held by someone else during a tough moment, reminding them of the kindness and magic in the world.

Join us at Trinket Trade and become part of a community that values and cherishes these small acts of kindness and connection.

Test of Strength:

Be the strongest lord in the kingdom and compete in the daily “Strong Man Contest”! Swing the hammer and ring the bell to prove your strength and show off your skills. Join fellow patrons in this exciting activity and become the champion of the day. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to show everyone what you’re made of at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire! ** Fees Apply

The Royal Maze:

Join us on a thrilling adventure through the Maze, where you’ll search for lost treasure and face exciting challenges at every turn. This family-friendly activity is perfect for all ages and skill levels, so gather your friends and family and see who can make it to the end of the Maze first! Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to test your skills and uncover hidden treasures at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire. **Fees Apply

Dog Adoptions:

Looking for a furry friend to join your family? Come to the Connecticut Renaissance Faire and meet adorable dogs in need of a loving home! Double Dog Rescue runs a dog adoption event featuring a meet and greet with dogs of all breeds and ages. Not only can you find your perfect companion, but you can also support a worthy cause and give a dog a second chance at a happy life. Don’t miss this opportunity to add a new member to your family and make a difference in the life of a dog. Join us at the Connecticut Renaissance Faire and experience the joy of adoption in a magical and unforgettable setting. You’re looking at a picture of Princess – an older dog who was adopted into a happy forever home changing her life for the better for the rest of her life.

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