Jousters and old-time artisans at the renaissance festival transported me to 1539. And yes, I dressed up. Here’s my review as a first-timer.
CROWNSVILLE, MD — The renaissance faire may seem like it’s reserved for cosplay enthusiasts, but rest assured, it’s a welcoming atmosphere for even first-timers.
I attended the Maryland Renaissance Festival for the first time in my adult life this August. I went once as a child, but I was too young to remember the experience.
The annual festival in Crownsville had intrigued me for years, but my inexperience in the character universe made me more comfortable on the sidelines. Raving reviews from a friend convinced me it was finally time to give it a go, and boy am I glad I did.
The festival is open for two more weekends— this Saturday and Sunday and the next. Adult tickets are $32 during these peak weekends, but they are already sold out. If you can’t make it this year, let this first-timer’s guide serve as encouragement to take the leap of faith next year.
What To Do, Eat
I never really knew what happened at the renaissance festival. The truth is there’s no shortage of activities.
I arrived just after gates opened at 10 a.m. and stayed until minutes before closing at 7 p.m.
Dubbed Revel Grove, the entire festival grounds are designed to look like a town in the year 1539. The food stands, shops and even the first aid station— all decorated as quaint storefronts in a European village from yesteryear.
The jousting is an absolute must-see, and not just because it’s Maryland’s state sport. The precision and control of the riders struck me.
Fans cheered for the rider stationed closest to their section of the arena. Sir Keegan was my rider, and the crowd chanted his name each time he rode past.
The horsemen also threw spears and caught rings on their lances. During a riding competition, one jouster rode upside down. I didn’t know that was possible.
The stunts make jousting the most popular show. Arrive early to guarantee yourself a seat.
A performance of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” was another highlight. Sit close to the stage for the best acoustics.
Three glassworkers captivated me. One had a glassblowing demonstration just inside the front gate. Another sculpted an intricate glass octopus with a torch. A third sold luxury vases and cups, all one-of-a-kinds that somehow contained the same exact design and thin, colored rims.
A ride down the long slide through the trees will cost you $1.
Another dollar will buy you a chance to play any board game sold by Kadon Enterprises. I fell in love with one called Manoover, a combination of checkers and bumper cars where you rolled a die and tried to knock the opponent’s pieces off the board.
Axe-throwing, a rock-climbing wall and a kids play area are other entertainment options.
Don’t miss the food either. There are full pickles for $2. The $12 turkey legs are a staple. Massive and messy but so iconic, this drumstick is enough for a full meal.
I also tried mead, a honey wine, for the first time at the festival. I sipped the sweet and tasty concoction at an open-air tavern where an old-time band strummed away. A small mead and draft beer cost me $14.
Credit and debit cards are accepted at many craft and food stands, but many drink vendors and game stalls only accept cash.
Outside food is allowed inside the festival, but coolers are prohibited. Each guest can bring one factory-sealed water bottle. There are free refill stations around the faire.
What To Wear
Let’s address the elephant in the room: You don’t have to dress up to enjoy yourself.
Plenty of folks have just as much fun sporting T-shirts and ball caps. There’s even facepainting and henna tattoos for those keeping it casual.
That said, dressing up does add an extra aura of excitement.
Some go as royals with crowns, knights with chainmail and fairies with wings.
Costume rentals are available on site on a first-come, first-served basis. They cost $15 to $35, depending on the age of the renter and the costume selected.
I don’t own any 16th-century costumes, and I didn’t want to spend extra. I wanted to get in theme, but I didn’t know how.
After some research, I was able to pull together a full fit without spending a dime.
The key is anything lacey and flowy. Cloth bags, tassels, knit fabric and belts are all your friend. Wooden or beaded jewelry are solid accents.
Natural and plain colors fit the bill for an easy working-class costume. Cream and green work well.
I borrowed a loose-fitting shirt with lace ties at the neckline and flowy pants that were wider at the ankles. I tied a cloth belt over my shirt, cinching it at my waist, and threw a satchel over my shoulder.
You don’t need to break the bank to dress the part.
On an important note, closed toes shoes are a must. I walked 3.3 miles the day I visited. It’s also quite dusty in the festival grounds, which have a natural terrain. There are accessible viewing areas at the stages, but the ground is uneven elsewhere.
Where To Park, What To Bring
Parking is free on the grass lots right outside the gates.
Seasoned attendees warn newbies to arrive early to beat the parking rush. I went on a non-peak weekend, and there was still about 15 minutes of traffic upon arrival.
It’s best to arrive right when the festival opens or even a bit early. The peak entry hours are 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. There was also a line to leave the parking lot at 6:30 p.m., but it was neatly orchestrated and traffic moved relatively quickly.
Don’t forget sunscreen on high UV days. Sunglasses are handy, too. There is some shade, but much is in the sun. Dressing in layers would be helpful in the cooler months.
Electrolyte packets and granola bars would also be helpful.
Final Thoughts
The renaissance festival has a family-friendly atmosphere that accepts everybody as they are, whether that’s in jeans or cloaks. Children will have a chance to play. Adults can bask in arts and entertainment.
With performers dressed and speaking in character, the faire transports guests back in time. A break from reality, a time machine and an opportunity to connect with history, I’m proud to finally have checked this item off my Maryland bucket list. And yes, I will return next year.