I prefer sometimes to go alone. Some of my friends dress up, others don't. Some of my friends I've taken there just didn't get into it. They saw me looking at gorgeous hip scarves and commented, "What are you going to do with that?" We saw the Faire in one hour and they wanted to leave. I'm used to staying there all day. When they were the only ones available, I just started to go alone. I enjoyed myself regardless.
Right?! My husband takes me each year. But he hates me shopping at them, lol. Hates how high all the prices of everything is. I don't blame him, but still. Sigh. :/
Biggest Introvert here. ...I Literally look forward to Ren Fair Every year, I dress up and have the most fun. If you are the type of introvert that enjoys being someone else for a day... This is totally the best event. Dont let being an introvert make you think you wont love it.
I feel similarly! I’m an shyer person but people at Ren faire are so nice and interesting that I have a good time just having quiet conversations with people, perusing the stalls, watching fun performances It’s actually kind of an ideal space where people are guaranteedly trying to make it fun for everyone, so that includes the quiet ones who just want to listen to a storyteller or attend a tea party or maybe need a bit more encouraging to join an activity lol, I think a good or ‘best’ experience at Ren can look very different from person to person and that’s what’s so great about it!!
The Texas Ren Fest is not too far from where I live/work. I passed by it and heard of it for years and I would think ‘ I don’t ever see myself going there.. corny af if you ask me’ well I went for the first time recently and man I had a good time. My ignorance kept me from going for a long time but I definitely want to go back and I want to participate too. It threw me off when I heard the employees speaking as if in back in the times but when I understood it, I realized what it was about. I will recommend to anyone who asks about it for sure.
"People that go with you can make or break your experience." 100% Yes. Sometimes alone can be good, it can give you more time to check out vendors you like in more details, or check out certain shows you don't normally get to sit and watch.
Back when I was a DM for a DnD campaign, I always thought it would be cool to leave off a session with the players setting off to go to a festival, then the following week, instead of playing DnD, we all go to a renaissance fair in real life, with them role-playing their characters (and I'd dress up as some side character or someone they've met in the DnD world). Then anything they buy/spend/win would all be reflected in the DnD world as well. So they could gamble with each other over the jousting for their in game currency, or who could chug a beer faster, etc. Can't do it anymore sadly, so hopefully someone else likes this idea and lives my dream for me!
29:59 Andúril, also called the Flame of the West and the Sword Reforged, was the sword which was reforged from the shards of Narsil in Rivendell. It was the sword of Aragorn II Elessar, heir of Isildur. Etymology: The name Andúril means "Flame of the West", from the Quenya andúnë ("west, sunset") and ril ("brilliance").
I didn't dress up for my first ren faire nearly 10 years ago, a small-ish local faire. I bought a ring belt that day, and it all just took off from there! Thrifted, stuff I made myself, and items here and there from faires that are just the perfect touch. After a short while you jsut get an eye for things that are perfect for faire. I have options to mix and match, go pirate or peasant - it's an addiction! :P I definitely go for cotton and linen items - the synthetic stuff isn't worth it, too sticky. Enjoying your videos, can't wait for my next faire in July ont he central coast!
With a lot of faires, there are differences when you go alone or with a group. If you're interested in looking through the shops, alone means that you're not going to be dragged along while you're trying to figure things out. I like to talk to the crafting vendors. But, at the same time, other things are more fun in a group to do it. And with the trinkets thing, a lot of that depends upon the faire, some have banned trinket trading entirely, others banned it but it's still there and more of a rule to eliminate the people trying to screw with the vendors there, and others have restrictions on it. With dressing for the faire, costume or otherwise, the two major things are for it to be something appropriate for being in public and that it should be wearable. Also, always look at the faires site beforehand for costumes, some allow people to wander around with swords or other weapons, others do not. Some also end up requiring you to bring cash with a lot of places that don't take cards
I went to 5 renfaires in 5 different states this past year. They are so fun. The cast is always awesome, but even better is just how fun and nice the attendees are.. 99& chance is that everyone is in a good mood and will do anything and everything to make your day better.
I went to my first renaissance fair back in the 80s in the San Diego area. I didn’t dress up, I was not into the cosplay. I walked around in my shorts, tank top and flip flops and just enjoyed the scenery. I loved the historical reenactment. I really loved the actors, drank mead and gnawed on a turkey leg.
You should check out the Carolina Renaissance Festival. Set in the fall, the village is in the middle of the woods, and plenty of food vendors. Can't be beat.
Any faire can be beat. TRF (Texas) is the biggest of them all and is fantastic. But I am glad you enjoy your local faire as that's how it should be. Have fun.
I’m extremely introverted, you sound like YOU have fun getting involved in other people, but I’ve been to the ren faire a few times now, and I do just get enjoyment from seeing the shows, and looking through the shops, and eating food. I do like to dress up and people watch, but personally I wouldn’t dance, and I go with people who don’t make me feel pressured or uncomfortable. So I wouldn’t say the ren faire isn’t for introverts. I think what’s key is going with people who make you comfortable in general.
Faires have themed weekends too so if you dont have a Medieval outfit there may be a weekend that you have an outfit for. Not that you have to wait for a matching theme
We lived in MD when I was a kid & we went every year. It was so cool & I loved it everytime. I've not been to one in 10+ years. I would love to go now as an adult. I've instead been binging any & all videos about them!
I enjoyed the Md Ren Faire when I lived in Md. Went many times each year. I've been to the Colorado faire, but the best faire of all is the Texas Ren Faire (TRF). It's huge. And so much fun. And will be starting next month for its 50th year.
I love going by myself! It’s great to go with friends but honestly the times I’ve gone on my own I’ve made so many friends and had a wonderful time! I can only speak for the co ren fest but everyone there is great!
I have been a garbed guest at an SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) meet, and loved it. I created my own persona, and garb, and so enjoyed being a part of it! Even met Their Royal Majesties, the King and Queen!
I go to three faires every year now, being in TX. Sherwood Forest in McDade, Scarborough in Waxahachie, and TRF in Todd Mission. TRF is the best because you can make a 4-5 day weekend of camping depending on which weekend you go. I have been to the Co Faire good work out up the hill, down the hill, up the hill and back down. I am lucky to be able to make all of my costumes now, I do buy kilts, but my other costumes I have made. I own way too many real swords and knives but they do make the costume. This year will be with my son and brother, my brother and I use to work at Scarborough so it is nice to just shop and watch the shows. Great video!
I have to agree those 3 are great. My brother and I now do just Sherwood and TRF. He's been going to TRF since the 90s. The Co faire I agree gives one a good workout. And is also fun. So is the Md and Pa faires.
recently went to my first ren faire, (LA pleasure faire) after going through your piror videos and a few others! thank you for the motivation! Im already planning my next
Have you ever been to the Sherwood Forest Faire in Paige, Texas? They are the only other one that I know of with camping. Its a lot smaller than TRF but the culture is way nicer.
This will not work for every person- obviously- but in 2022, the only way I COULD go to the Ren was to work there. I worked in preparing and hawking food, and yes, it was very hot and sweaty. However, I still have wonderful dreams after the experience. Every day wasn't the best ever, but it really did give me the chance to see more of the event than I ever could before. I got to see how the different themed weekends played out and really got to know the other people working there. I can no longer work at my nearest Faire because of health reasons, but I'm so glad that I did. Maybe other people will have an "aha" moment like I did and find a way to go when they otherwise couldn't justify the expense.
Excellent video and thanks for all the tips, tricks, suggestions, and insights based on your experiences. I've been "adventuring" to ren faires off and on for 15+ years and traveling throughout the U.S. to visit ones that are not in my immediate area. I completely agree with your recommendations, especially about who you elect to go to the faire with. That's a major consideration when it comes to having a memorable and enjoyable experience! Great, informative video - thanks!
3:05 I went to my first ren faire two days ago and I just wore a pair of elf ears with a simple green dress that sort of looked like it would fit in a medieval-fantasy setting and for the most part I was myself but when talking to other people who had dressed up I did a mix of my dnd characters and my irl self and I had so much fun
I attended the Renn Faire for the first time and watched your video. Your POV was honest and fantastic! I would’ve been completely lost and wouldn’t have jumped in the dancing at the end if it wasn’t for you, thank you!! 🎉🎉
I have been to the one in Tuxedo, NY at least a dozen times. I played DnD back in the 70s and 80s and had a bunch of friends that I went with then. We dressed up and I enjoyed those visits the best. I was also in my 20s and that did help. I have also brought friends that had a family they brought along. Not everyone enjoyed it and I ended up breaking away from that group and enjoyed the fest by myself. I am pretty friendly and participatory in the shows that had that element. I have since gone alone but lately….just with one other person into fantasy, or of Pagan faith, or just plain very extrovert, is my choice. Be willing to wait in line for food. But…if you wander around you can find some vendors with quicker lines. Something that happens often is the coffee vendors usually have the quickest lines at the NY Faire and who hates that? Love your Ren Faire stuff!🎉
I went on a day it was 104 out. I was in a linen shift, linen petticoat, linen apron, straw hat, and 1790s front lacing stays. I was less hot than my friend in denim booty shorts and a mesh top. Linen is the best when its hot! And being more covered in a breathable fabric can be better than less covered
I thought gold necklaces went around your neck not your nose but you are beautiful enough you can wear whatever wherever and whenever you want. Great informative video, thanks !
I grew up with TRF being my home faire. I’ve always had a massive group to enjoy it with over the years. Though-I just moved up to Colorado with no friends or family so I’m really in the same boat of wanting to find a community to go with. I’ve honestly been really nervous to go alone but I’ll be brave 😂💪🏻 I’m hoping to make some chill friends at Colorado faire this season hopefully! 🥺🖤 Would be cool to see you there this year!
The Co faire is very nice. About 1/2 the size of TRF. But much fun. But prepare yourself to do much walking as it's hilly. TRF is now my home faire and my brothers too. It starts next month.
I went to my first ren faire in April, it was great! I made our costumes the week before, all hand sewn, and I don’t even actually know how to sew I was almost entirely winging it. It worked out great though! And fortunately our friends were running a booth so we sat with them the entire time. We missed some events but it was overwhelming so just sitting with friends and chatting with new people and being able to browse some booths was fun enough for my first time
You are so awesome. I went to my first ren fair with a friend from work like 20 years ago near charlotte, NC and got hooked instantly. Then continued going multiple times a year first with my wife ( wasn't her thing ) then with best friends, then with my 5yo son, then with son & younger daughter after my divorce, just completely falling in love with the whole experience. I kept going every year for like 15 years straight all to the same one in Concorde, NC which I would say was pretty big and too much to properly take in in one day bc of all the amazing shows and the jousting would be 3 times daily but all different shows progressing in intensity to the final joust to the death so you kinda had to go to all 3 jousts to get the best experience. anywho, I've been living in another country for the past 5 years with my son and daughter and mother where the ren fair does not exist. Just saw you for the first time ever a few weeks ago and fell in love with your ren fair vids and looked up all of them and made them favs so I can see them all in chronologic order. You have an amazingly authentic and believable feminine elven look which adds so much to your ren fair vids. Don't know how or why the first video of you popped up but I'm so happy it did bc you are the next best thing to actually going to the renaissance festival. I miss going so very much. Sorry for the long comment but I'm just so excited. Thank you so much, please make more !!!!!!!
I'm from Arkansas and they started one around Mount Vernon. It was A lot of fun. I'd highly recommend looking it up, or finding another festival like closer or easier for you.
We have medieval festivals here in Portugal but I've only ever been to the one most local to me (Silves). You can rent clothing but I've never dressed up because it takes place in August when it's freaking HOT here then lol!! Great video x
Most US ren faires take place during the summer when it's extremely hot in most locations holding them. That's why so many come wearing chainmail bikinis and belly dancing costumes lol
Extremely helpful! I'll be attending the Canterbury Faire near Portland soon. I go solo to most events, though I'm interested in grouping up. Pretty heavy in the extrovert side of things so this will be exciting.
I would hope I would recognise Andúril, Flame of the West anywhere. Going to my first LARP in a month or so and really nervous but your videos have done a lot to make it all look so fun.
Now that you are in CA, you should check out the Escondido Renaissance Faire. It's held in a beautiful park with lots of shade. Next one is coming up Oct 26-27.
Have gone to renn fairs solo many times; it's pretty good. There's lots of entertainment and you can take it in on your own schedule. I'd actually caution against going with more than 5 people or so, as larger groups can get unwieldy.
Been questioning if I can just wear my cheap the Witcher Halloween costume to mn ren fest and you just answered my question. Ty. Now I don’t feel uncomfortable
I prefer going with other friends who are already into faire. But I do love occasionally introducing friends to the scene if I get to know them and am sure beyond a doubt they will like it. I am doing so this Saturday, actually. I have two friends flying in from two different states to go with me to Colorado Renaissance Festival. I am so looking forward to taking them. I sew, also, and made one of them an outfit. The other, with my guidance, bought his outfit from Medieval Collectibles. This is going to be a Fun weekend.
well I learned something, I did not know that this even began in CA. Now I know. I've gone to the one in my state (MA) a few times and while I'm big into these, have played D&D since the Red Book, I've never dressed up and never had an issue. I think you can go alone though, I do, I also go on vacation by myself. I am a huge introvert and I still enjoy myself. Every so often I can include myself into things. So to those fellow introverts I say still go, enjoy yourself, it can still be fun. Have you ever been to King Richard's here in MA? I was surprised at just how large it is.
Renfaires look so fun!! I've always wanted to cosplay (a green mushroom has been living in my mind for months!) and go to a renfaire but, alas, I live in the uk and there are few to go to that people dress up and cosplay at😞
Ours here in maryland is amazing and we usually wait to go until October when it’s more cool. Going when it’s blazing hot at the very end of summer sucks
If you ever get the chance to go to the North Carolina Faire make the second and last Joust of the day because they tell a story. It is the same one every year done in different ways but they lead to the host Joust to the death
If you go just for the shopping but you don't have money for everything you want... take a pen and make notes on the map or on shop business cards of what you found where it is and how much it costs. Take pictures if they allow it but many times they don't to protect their designs. That way you can plan what to spend your money on and you know how to find it again. So many times I tried to find a shop after making my rounds and it was in a hidden ally and if I marked it on the map I could have saved an hour and got more done.
Thank you!! They are madhouse fx studio but I will say, they only fit one ear perfectly. They are molded after the owners ears so it’s hit or miss if they fit right sadly
Ren Fair Guide: the renaissance was a time period in Europe. The renaissance fair is where women put elf ears on, buy their whole costume there (they’ve got 5 at home) and the boyfriends have to film it
Best thing for parking is to spend the extra money and get the King's Parking. At least at Texas Ren Faires, that gets you parking up close to the main faire gate. And believe me, after a long day at the Faire, your dogs will be killing you and the last thing you want is a long hike to your car. The Faires in Texas most all took cards at vendor stalls. You want to get to the Joust early, not only to get the best seats, but to get any seats at all. The stands fill up fast and the show goes on so long, that you thinking you can stand there for it will soon prove false. And I spend a lot of money on my costumes, so no, I don't sit in the dirt in them. I stay relatively clean.
Thank you! This is great :) We were just planning out outfits/characters for our first ren faire the other day. Also... Swordspinning...any suggestions on how to start? How do you come up with the moves?
if i went to a faire in a dnd cosplay, for example a dragonborn paladin barbarian, would the whole costume be okay to wear, or would need to take off the dragon parts but keep the armour? also would a cloak with a hood be good to use instead of a hat/umbrella?
That part about finding people to go with seems so hard, I am 30 have one good friend who has too many responsibilities to do this stuff. and I on the surface don't appear to be someone who would be into this stuff. I am absolutely dying to find a friend group that is as nerdy under the surface as i am. Good luck to everyone in a similar boat trying to make friends as an adult
I’m curious if anyone who has ever been to the renn faire in New York has experienced are any off the beaten path activities? It’s my third year going and I love it! I’m considering making trinkets for this year!
Texas renfest was great...........minus the camper flying a confederate flag that I was forced to cross paths with every time I went back to my tent as a half black person....... But good first timer tips!
So I live in Pennsylvania and I'm not sure what festival to go to next year that is more fantasy instead of a replication of older times which festival would you recommend that close to pennsylvania.
Rather random take it how you may but I believe you are close to 6 ft tall based on the length of your fingers . I only say something bcuz I'm 6'5 so I tend to recognize and appreciate these things🤷 but on the subject I went to my first one 2 weeks ago and last weekend went back in full costume and loved it now I need atleast 5 themed outfits !😁💖
I started going to the Ren Faire in 1978 with my mom. The last Faire I went to was in 2014. For me, it went too far acceptable to wear non period or even correct era fantasy outfits, ie LOTR's style. That's me being nostalgic for the OG Agura Hills Faire. I never minded those who were not dressed but I saw Star Wars characters for Peetes sake.. and I love SW but come on.. I do agree that for the most part, everyone is really great to hang with. Just nice people having fun. Btw, you look great with your character.
For future copyright reasons, I'm not sure I can share much my Ren Faire experience with public the moment. tight lipped a bit BUT is many phantasy elements creeping into them Scottish ones a bit sometimes, like Harry Potter gals or sumpin'. Might be less attended than Ren things overall?
I enjoyed one time at my local small one, where I was my khajiit Dar’rask, and someone paid to “throw me in jail” I waited for someone to bail me out , but this one had to bail herself out! I got a copy of my warrant and everything lol
Hi there! I've been to Ren Faire before, but It's been a while. Is there anything I would miss out on being underage? Obviously, alcohol is a no, but anything other than that? You mentioned a lot of fun interactions between other people at the Faire, and as someone looking to meet other history and fantasy nerds, I was hoping that would still be the same for teenagers. Is it mostly just an adult/21+ event, or do you find YAs/teens as well?
The clothes are soooooo expensive from the creators tho so I would love and wanted to support them but over 80 or 140 for a crop top corset I was like oh my gosh I wish I could afford it because they’re such beautiful pieces 😢 A guy was selling handmade crafted wood mugs with glass pieces in it and I fell in love with it and was heartbroken when the price was 540. I thought it was 40 and I was like OMG I can afford this?! But no lmao 😂
Im going to preface by saying this is a great video, and the youtuber’s costume is awesome. But as a person from the UK I find renaissance fairs quite funny as it’s just my history, though I would like to go as they seem good fun. In saying that as a person of Scottish and Irish hertiage what is a Scottish or Irish festival, like saint paddy’s or burns night, or is it just like americans running round in kilts with vaugue scottish hertiage elements. Genuienly just interested as this is wild for me as a UK person.
So I've recently gotten into clown stuff, I love the thought of dressing up as a silly bright clown. But, what kind of weapon would a clown have? I was thinking somethint like a funky coloured bat or just something silly, a kind of weapon with a handle (Melee weapon)
It's 3am and I'm planning out my sewing for the next month for Bico and !! You're going?! Is it your first year? I'm American but in a French-based area of the game (the spooky part hehe) so if you wanna see a different side of Bico that you probably typically wouldn't, let me know! I always love bringing people to our palisade in the middle of the forest and showing them Auquesse >:)
I prefer sometimes to go alone. Some of my friends dress up, others don't. Some of my friends I've taken there just didn't get into it. They saw me looking at gorgeous hip scarves and commented, "What are you going to do with that?" We saw the Faire in one hour and they wanted to leave. I'm used to staying there all day. When they were the only ones available, I just started to go alone. I enjoyed myself regardless.
I’ve had similar experiences where some were really into it, others just walked around not seemingly enjoying anything, and then wanted to go.
I’m sorry but your friends sound like shit
Right?!
My husband takes me each year.
But he hates me shopping at them, lol. Hates how high all the prices of everything is. I don't blame him, but still.
Sigh. :/
Frr
I much rather go alone, and can enjoy myself without worrying about my companion/s.
Biggest Introvert here. ...I Literally look forward to Ren Fair Every year, I dress up and have the most fun. If you are the type of introvert that enjoys being someone else for a day... This is totally the best event. Dont let being an introvert make you think you wont love it.
As an introvert, this is great to hear. Thank you!
I feel similarly! I’m an shyer person but people at Ren faire are so nice and interesting that I have a good time just having quiet conversations with people, perusing the stalls, watching fun performances
It’s actually kind of an ideal space where people are guaranteedly trying to make it fun for everyone, so that includes the quiet ones who just want to listen to a storyteller or attend a tea party or maybe need a bit more encouraging to join an activity lol, I think a good or ‘best’ experience at Ren can look very different from person to person and that’s what’s so great about it!!
The Texas Ren Fest is not too far from where I live/work. I passed by it and heard of it for years and I would think ‘ I don’t ever see myself going there.. corny af if you ask me’ well I went for the first time recently and man I had a good time. My ignorance kept me from going for a long time but I definitely want to go back and I want to participate too. It threw me off when I heard the employees speaking as if in back in the times but when I understood it, I realized what it was about. I will recommend to anyone who asks about it for sure.
"People that go with you can make or break your experience." 100% Yes.
Sometimes alone can be good, it can give you more time to check out vendors you like in more details, or check out certain shows you don't normally get to sit and watch.
Back when I was a DM for a DnD campaign, I always thought it would be cool to leave off a session with the players setting off to go to a festival, then the following week, instead of playing DnD, we all go to a renaissance fair in real life, with them role-playing their characters (and I'd dress up as some side character or someone they've met in the DnD world). Then anything they buy/spend/win would all be reflected in the DnD world as well. So they could gamble with each other over the jousting for their in game currency, or who could chug a beer faster, etc. Can't do it anymore sadly, so hopefully someone else likes this idea and lives my dream for me!
This the one
I am going to use this idea
I'm an introvert and have a blast going solo!!!
29:59 Andúril, also called the Flame of the West and the Sword Reforged, was the sword which was reforged from the shards of Narsil in Rivendell.
It was the sword of Aragorn II Elessar, heir of Isildur.
Etymology: The name Andúril means "Flame of the West", from the Quenya andúnë ("west, sunset") and ril ("brilliance").
Heeeel yeah
I didn't dress up for my first ren faire nearly 10 years ago, a small-ish local faire. I bought a ring belt that day, and it all just took off from there! Thrifted, stuff I made myself, and items here and there from faires that are just the perfect touch. After a short while you jsut get an eye for things that are perfect for faire. I have options to mix and match, go pirate or peasant - it's an addiction! :P I definitely go for cotton and linen items - the synthetic stuff isn't worth it, too sticky. Enjoying your videos, can't wait for my next faire in July ont he central coast!
With a lot of faires, there are differences when you go alone or with a group.
If you're interested in looking through the shops, alone means that you're not going to be dragged along while you're trying to figure things out. I like to talk to the crafting vendors. But, at the same time, other things are more fun in a group to do it.
And with the trinkets thing, a lot of that depends upon the faire, some have banned trinket trading entirely, others banned it but it's still there and more of a rule to eliminate the people trying to screw with the vendors there, and others have restrictions on it.
With dressing for the faire, costume or otherwise, the two major things are for it to be something appropriate for being in public and that it should be wearable.
Also, always look at the faires site beforehand for costumes, some allow people to wander around with swords or other weapons, others do not.
Some also end up requiring you to bring cash with a lot of places that don't take cards
I went to 5 renfaires in 5 different states this past year. They are so fun. The cast is always awesome, but even better is just how fun and nice the attendees are.. 99& chance is that everyone is in a good mood and will do anything and everything to make your day better.
I went to my first renaissance fair back in the 80s in the San Diego area. I didn’t dress up, I was not into the cosplay. I walked around in my shorts, tank top and flip flops and just enjoyed the scenery. I loved the historical reenactment. I really loved the actors, drank mead and gnawed on a turkey leg.
You should check out the Carolina Renaissance Festival. Set in the fall, the village is in the middle of the woods, and plenty of food vendors. Can't be beat.
CRF is my home faire! I love it so much!
Any faire can be beat. TRF (Texas) is the biggest of them all and is fantastic. But I am glad you enjoy your local faire as that's how it should be. Have fun.
I’m extremely introverted, you sound like YOU have fun getting involved in other people, but I’ve been to the ren faire a few times now, and I do just get enjoyment from seeing the shows, and looking through the shops, and eating food. I do like to dress up and people watch, but personally I wouldn’t dance, and I go with people who don’t make me feel pressured or uncomfortable. So I wouldn’t say the ren faire isn’t for introverts. I think what’s key is going with people who make you comfortable in general.
Faires have themed weekends too so if you dont have a Medieval outfit there may be a weekend that you have an outfit for. Not that you have to wait for a matching theme
A FAIRY WEEKEND! OMG IMMA SEE IF THAT COMES
7:25 all those "in between activities" are they type that introverted people will enjoy.
We lived in MD when I was a kid & we went every year. It was so cool & I loved it everytime. I've not been to one in 10+ years. I would love to go now as an adult. I've instead been binging any & all videos about them!
I went to MD renfaire last year. Great place!
I enjoyed the Md Ren Faire when I lived in Md. Went many times each year. I've been to the Colorado faire, but the best faire of all is the Texas Ren Faire (TRF). It's huge. And so much fun. And will be starting next month for its 50th year.
I love going by myself! It’s great to go with friends but honestly the times I’ve gone on my own I’ve made so many friends and had a wonderful time! I can only speak for the co ren fest but everyone there is great!
I have been a garbed guest at an SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) meet, and loved it. I created my own persona, and garb, and so enjoyed being a part of it! Even met Their Royal Majesties, the King and Queen!
I go to three faires every year now, being in TX. Sherwood Forest in McDade, Scarborough in Waxahachie, and TRF in Todd Mission. TRF is the best because you can make a 4-5 day weekend of camping depending on which weekend you go. I have been to the Co Faire good work out up the hill, down the hill, up the hill and back down. I am lucky to be able to make all of my costumes now, I do buy kilts, but my other costumes I have made. I own way too many real swords and knives but they do make the costume. This year will be with my son and brother, my brother and I use to work at Scarborough so it is nice to just shop and watch the shows. Great video!
I have to agree those 3 are great. My brother and I now do just Sherwood and TRF. He's been going to TRF since the 90s. The Co faire I agree gives one a good workout. And is also fun. So is the Md and Pa faires.
@@timradde4328 That is awesome. I am hoping to do MN faire next year over labor day weekend.
recently went to my first ren faire, (LA pleasure faire) after going through your piror videos and a few others! thank you for the motivation! Im already planning my next
oh yes!! I just went to that one as well! I hope you enjoyed it 🫶
Have you ever been to the Sherwood Forest Faire in Paige, Texas? They are the only other one that I know of with camping. Its a lot smaller than TRF but the culture is way nicer.
This will not work for every person- obviously- but in 2022, the only way I COULD go to the Ren was to work there. I worked in preparing and hawking food, and yes, it was very hot and sweaty. However, I still have wonderful dreams after the experience. Every day wasn't the best ever, but it really did give me the chance to see more of the event than I ever could before. I got to see how the different themed weekends played out and really got to know the other people working there.
I can no longer work at my nearest Faire because of health reasons, but I'm so glad that I did. Maybe other people will have an "aha" moment like I did and find a way to go when they otherwise couldn't justify the expense.
You look stunning! The hair, the facial jewelry, the outfit! ❤
thank you!!!
I love your Ren Faire content. Fantastic as always :)
thank you so much!!!🫶
Love watching this content, you are a true LARP GODDESS, thank you so much. I am envious and would love to attend these events !!!!
Excellent video and thanks for all the tips, tricks, suggestions, and insights based on your experiences. I've been "adventuring" to ren faires off and on for 15+ years and traveling throughout the U.S. to visit ones that are not in my immediate area. I completely agree with your recommendations, especially about who you elect to go to the faire with. That's a major consideration when it comes to having a memorable and enjoyable experience! Great, informative video - thanks!
3:05 I went to my first ren faire two days ago and I just wore a pair of elf ears with a simple green dress that sort of looked like it would fit in a medieval-fantasy setting and for the most part I was myself but when talking to other people who had dressed up I did a mix of my dnd characters and my irl self and I had so much fun
I attended the Renn Faire for the first time and watched your video. Your POV was honest and fantastic! I would’ve been completely lost and wouldn’t have jumped in the dancing at the end if it wasn’t for you, thank you!! 🎉🎉
I know this is off topic, but I love that beautiful wallpaper behind you. What a beautiful place you must have.
I've been going to the Texas Reniassance Faire for over 20 years. I need to get much more involved with the community there!
I have been to the one in Tuxedo, NY at least a dozen times. I played DnD back in the 70s and 80s and had a bunch of friends that I went with then. We dressed up and I enjoyed those visits the best. I was also in my 20s and that did help. I have also brought friends that had a family they brought along. Not everyone enjoyed it and I ended up breaking away from that group and enjoyed the fest by myself. I am pretty friendly and participatory in the shows that had that element. I have since gone alone but lately….just with one other person into fantasy, or of Pagan faith, or just plain very extrovert, is my choice. Be willing to wait in line for food. But…if you wander around you can find some vendors with quicker lines. Something that happens often is the coffee vendors usually have the quickest lines at the NY Faire and who hates that? Love your Ren Faire stuff!🎉
I went on a day it was 104 out. I was in a linen shift, linen petticoat, linen apron, straw hat, and 1790s front lacing stays. I was less hot than my friend in denim booty shorts and a mesh top. Linen is the best when its hot! And being more covered in a breathable fabric can be better than less covered
I thought gold necklaces went around your neck not your nose but you are beautiful enough you can wear whatever wherever and whenever you want. Great informative video, thanks !
I grew up with TRF being my home faire. I’ve always had a massive group to enjoy it with over the years.
Though-I just moved up to Colorado with no friends or family so I’m really in the same boat of wanting to find a community to go with. I’ve honestly been really nervous to go alone but I’ll be brave 😂💪🏻
I’m hoping to make some chill friends at Colorado faire this season hopefully! 🥺🖤
Would be cool to see you there this year!
The Co faire is very nice. About 1/2 the size of TRF. But much fun. But prepare yourself to do much walking as it's hilly. TRF is now my home faire and my brothers too. It starts next month.
Joining a guild at Ren Fest is super fun! Joined the witches guild at my local ren fest!
My first and favorite ren fair was the one at the Kaltenberg castle in Germany. I've been hooked on them ever since.
UM WHAT!
I need to look this up
@justlanchen yes, it's called the Kaltenberger Ritterturnier. It's close to Munich in Bavaria. Absolutely great time!
I would like to add that they their night time jousting show is Hollywood level
@@butterboots89 I know where my next trip is going to be now!! 🥰 thank you for sharing this!!!
@justlanchen you're very welcome! I hope you have so much fun!
I went to my first ren faire in April, it was great! I made our costumes the week before, all hand sewn, and I don’t even actually know how to sew I was almost entirely winging it. It worked out great though! And fortunately our friends were running a booth so we sat with them the entire time. We missed some events but it was overwhelming so just sitting with friends and chatting with new people and being able to browse some booths was fun enough for my first time
You are so awesome. I went to my first ren fair with a friend from work like 20 years ago near charlotte, NC and got hooked instantly. Then continued going multiple times a year first with my wife ( wasn't her thing ) then with best friends, then with my 5yo son, then with son & younger daughter after my divorce, just completely falling in love with the whole experience. I kept going every year for like 15 years straight all to the same one in Concorde, NC which I would say was pretty big and too much to properly take in in one day bc of all the amazing shows and the jousting would be 3 times daily but all different shows progressing in intensity to the final joust to the death so you kinda had to go to all 3 jousts to get the best experience. anywho, I've been living in another country for the past 5 years with my son and daughter and mother where the ren fair does not exist. Just saw you for the first time ever a few weeks ago and fell in love with your ren fair vids and looked up all of them and made them favs so I can see them all in chronologic order. You have an amazingly authentic and believable feminine elven look which adds so much to your ren fair vids. Don't know how or why the first video of you popped up but I'm so happy it did bc you are the next best thing to actually going to the renaissance festival. I miss going so very much. Sorry for the long comment but I'm just so excited. Thank you so much, please make more !!!!!!!
Awesome ! I'm trying to make my first faire in PA 👏🏻
I'm from Arkansas and they started one around Mount Vernon. It was A lot of fun. I'd highly recommend looking it up, or finding another festival like closer or easier for you.
I used to go to these all the time. I'm also considering Octoberfest.
The original Oktoberfest?!
You met Don Quixote. He also can be found at the Colorado Renaissance Festival.
Great tips from one of the more lovely ladies of the youtube realm. Visit the Scarborough Ren Fair in Dallas sometime!
Thanks for your ren faire videos! I see them and i'm like "i found my people!", wish i could go to one since my country doesn't have them 😢
😭😭😭😭 come to the states!
@@justlanchen someday soon i'll live my ren faire dream!! 🤞🏻
Great info. Not sure if I prefer Elf Lanchen, Viking Lanchen, or Pirate Lanchen. Meh I like em all! Thanks
We have medieval festivals here in Portugal but I've only ever been to the one most local to me (Silves). You can rent clothing but I've never dressed up because it takes place in August when it's freaking HOT here then lol!! Great video x
Most US ren faires take place during the summer when it's extremely hot in most locations holding them. That's why so many come wearing chainmail bikinis and belly dancing costumes lol
@@SpicePrincess1890 OMG I’m too old for that LOL!!!
Extremely helpful! I'll be attending the Canterbury Faire near Portland soon. I go solo to most events, though I'm interested in grouping up. Pretty heavy in the extrovert side of things so this will be exciting.
I would hope I would recognise Andúril, Flame of the West anywhere. Going to my first LARP in a month or so and really nervous but your videos have done a lot to make it all look so fun.
Now that you are in CA, you should check out the Escondido Renaissance Faire. It's held in a beautiful park with lots of shade. Next one is coming up Oct 26-27.
Have gone to renn fairs solo many times; it's pretty good. There's lots of entertainment and you can take it in on your own schedule. I'd actually caution against going with more than 5 people or so, as larger groups can get unwieldy.
Been questioning if I can just wear my cheap the Witcher Halloween costume to mn ren fest and you just answered my question. Ty. Now I don’t feel uncomfortable
I prefer going with other friends who are already into faire. But I do love occasionally introducing friends to the scene if I get to know them and am sure beyond a doubt they will like it. I am doing so this Saturday, actually. I have two friends flying in from two different states to go with me to Colorado Renaissance Festival. I am so looking forward to taking them. I sew, also, and made one of them an outfit. The other, with my guidance, bought his outfit from Medieval Collectibles. This is going to be a Fun weekend.
well I learned something, I did not know that this even began in CA. Now I know. I've gone to the one in my state (MA) a few times and while I'm big into these, have played D&D since the Red Book, I've never dressed up and never had an issue. I think you can go alone though, I do, I also go on vacation by myself. I am a huge introvert and I still enjoy myself. Every so often I can include myself into things. So to those fellow introverts I say still go, enjoy yourself, it can still be fun. Have you ever been to King Richard's here in MA? I was surprised at just how large it is.
Wish I lived in CA still. I'd go to ren faire with you! I still miss having Toad in a Hole when Ren Pleasure Faire was in Black Oak Forest.
Renfaires look so fun!! I've always wanted to cosplay (a green mushroom has been living in my mind for months!) and go to a renfaire but, alas, I live in the uk and there are few to go to that people dress up and cosplay at😞
Ours here in maryland is amazing and we usually wait to go until October when it’s more cool. Going when it’s blazing hot at the very end of summer sucks
If you ever get the chance to go to the North Carolina Faire make the second and last Joust of the day because they tell a story. It is the same one every year done in different ways but they lead to the host Joust to the death
If you go just for the shopping but you don't have money for everything you want... take a pen and make notes on the map or on shop business cards of what you found where it is and how much it costs. Take pictures if they allow it but many times they don't to protect their designs. That way you can plan what to spend your money on and you know how to find it again. So many times I tried to find a shop after making my rounds and it was in a hidden ally and if I marked it on the map I could have saved an hour and got more done.
The sword you asked about is Aragorns Anduril from lotr
Your elf ears look so good, what brand are they?
Thank you!! They are madhouse fx studio but I will say, they only fit one ear perfectly. They are molded after the owners ears so it’s hit or miss if they fit right sadly
Hey, if you’re ever headed back to TX and need a dnd group to go with, we got chu.
Ren Fair Guide: the renaissance was a time period in Europe. The renaissance fair is where women put elf ears on, buy their whole costume there (they’ve got 5 at home) and the boyfriends have to film it
Best thing for parking is to spend the extra money and get the King's Parking. At least at Texas Ren Faires, that gets you parking up close to the main faire gate. And believe me, after a long day at the Faire, your dogs will be killing you and the last thing you want is a long hike to your car. The Faires in Texas most all took cards at vendor stalls.
You want to get to the Joust early, not only to get the best seats, but to get any seats at all. The stands fill up fast and the show goes on so long, that you thinking you can stand there for it will soon prove false. And I spend a lot of money on my costumes, so no, I don't sit in the dirt in them. I stay relatively clean.
Thank you! This is great :) We were just planning out outfits/characters for our first ren faire the other day. Also... Swordspinning...any suggestions on how to start? How do you come up with the moves?
I'm going for my first time next year with my daughter.
Hella helpful video thanks. Oh the swords from LOTR
if i went to a faire in a dnd cosplay, for example a dragonborn paladin barbarian, would the whole costume be okay to wear, or would need to take off the dragon parts but keep the armour? also would a cloak with a hood be good to use instead of a hat/umbrella?
Thinking of going to a renfaire next year - can you dress up as anything (including your own characters if you’re a writer)?
This was so helpful!!
you kept saying California as the bad one, was this Irwindale's? I'm in San Diego, any other good local ones?
Hello!!! I’m am looking to go to the Renaissance Faire in Todd Mission Texas during the Highland Fling. Are you going this year?
I think they do one near where I live in Colorado, but I don't really know anyone who is into that kind of stuff or where to even get outfits.
That part about finding people to go with seems so hard, I am 30 have one good friend who has too many responsibilities to do this stuff. and I on the surface don't appear to be someone who would be into this stuff. I am absolutely dying to find a friend group that is as nerdy under the surface as i am. Good luck to everyone in a similar boat trying to make friends as an adult
I’m curious if anyone who has ever been to the renn faire in New York has experienced are any off the beaten path activities? It’s my third year going and I love it! I’m considering making trinkets for this year!
Texas renfest was great...........minus the camper flying a confederate flag that I was forced to cross paths with every time I went back to my tent as a half black person....... But good first timer tips!
Where is your blouse and corset from?
The one I’d be going to would be in irwindale. I often wear a fixed blade knife. Would this be an issue?
So I live in Pennsylvania and I'm not sure what festival to go to next year that is more fantasy instead of a replication of older times which festival would you recommend that close to pennsylvania.
Rather random take it how you may but I believe you are close to 6 ft tall based on the length of your fingers . I only say something bcuz I'm 6'5 so I tend to recognize and appreciate these things🤷 but on the subject I went to my first one 2 weeks ago and last weekend went back in full costume and loved it now I need atleast 5 themed outfits !😁💖
Those venders also have to pay a large amount of money for the booth to the organizers of the fair.
I started going to the Ren Faire in 1978 with my mom. The last Faire I went to was in 2014. For me, it went too far acceptable to wear non period or even correct era fantasy outfits, ie LOTR's style. That's me being nostalgic for the OG Agura Hills Faire. I never minded those who were not dressed but I saw Star Wars characters for Peetes sake.. and I love SW but come on.. I do agree that for the most part, everyone is really great to hang with. Just nice people having fun. Btw, you look great with your character.
Shards o' Narsil: The sword what vanishes and reappears???
For future copyright reasons, I'm not sure I can share much my Ren Faire experience with public the moment. tight lipped a bit BUT is many phantasy elements creeping into them Scottish ones a bit sometimes, like Harry Potter gals or sumpin'. Might be less attended than Ren things overall?
Maybe the weather is more favorable in Irwindale than Devore. By a few degrees, anyway. [Less wind a smidge.]
Unstructured experience for the faint-hearted or some such?
Does your mister have a Mrs.?
Indigestion at the sign of the Goode Eats?
I enjoyed one time at my local small one, where I was my khajiit Dar’rask, and someone paid to “throw me in jail” I waited for someone to bail me out , but this one had to bail herself out! I got a copy of my warrant and everything lol
ua-cam.com/video/8n_2eAr6C_8/v-deo.htmlsi=NdlA5njePcUwifi0
My friend and I had a booth once , where we had a Skyrim theme and we sent our npc out with black hand letters and put a quest marker on him
omg no way! I love that!!
😂
Im going with my mom because she has never been to one and we both really want to go. im dressing up as an elf
Great video, thanks. :D
Hi there!
I've been to Ren Faire before, but It's been a while.
Is there anything I would miss out on being underage? Obviously, alcohol is a no, but anything other than that? You mentioned a lot of fun interactions between other people at the Faire, and as someone looking to meet other history and fantasy nerds, I was hoping that would still be the same for teenagers. Is it mostly just an adult/21+ event, or do you find YAs/teens as well?
Originally the Renaissance fair was about the Renaissance and teaching about it, but now it's just D&D stuff and more focused on the medieval period.
I noticed that! it's more medieval than anything. This isn't a bad thing but the festival needs to change its name to the medieval fantasy fair lol
i wanna go to the texas one so bad but it’s four hours away and my mom says no😞
The clothes are soooooo expensive from the creators tho so I would love and wanted to support them but over 80 or 140 for a crop top corset I was like oh my gosh I wish I could afford it because they’re such beautiful pieces 😢
A guy was selling handmade crafted wood mugs with glass pieces in it and I fell in love with it and was heartbroken when the price was 540. I thought it was 40 and I was like OMG I can afford this?! But no lmao 😂
All the clips you shared of us made me so happy 🥹🥹🥹
I know same 😭 those are my best Ren Faire clips
Im going to preface by saying this is a great video, and the youtuber’s costume is awesome. But as a person from the UK I find renaissance fairs quite funny as it’s just my history, though I would like to go as they seem good fun. In saying that as a person of Scottish and Irish hertiage what is a Scottish or Irish festival, like saint paddy’s or burns night, or is it just like americans running round in kilts with vaugue scottish hertiage elements. Genuienly just interested as this is wild for me as a UK person.
I've always wanted to go to one of these dressed in a Starfleet uniform.
I always see at least one Starfleet officer. I have also seen a Storm Trooper. Doctor Who often shows up.
THANKS ❤
Good advice
So I've recently gotten into clown stuff, I love the thought of dressing up as a silly bright clown. But, what kind of weapon would a clown have? I was thinking somethint like a funky coloured bat or just something silly, a kind of weapon with a handle (Melee weapon)
we need it in Australia
It's 3am and I'm planning out my sewing for the next month for Bico and !! You're going?! Is it your first year? I'm American but in a French-based area of the game (the spooky part hehe) so if you wanna see a different side of Bico that you probably typically wouldn't, let me know! I always love bringing people to our palisade in the middle of the forest and showing them Auquesse >:)
The longswordiest longsword!
That’s the sword Aragon uses in LOTR
Are all ages able to have fun? Or is it mostly adult activities?
do we have to carry I.D ?
Who even carries ID in 1353?
(I maketh not the rules, quoth he)