Every year from October to November, the Ren Fair, in Kinston, NC vividly brings back a time long past; blending history, fantasy and entertainment. It’s not just a festival, it’s a vibrant escape from modern life, where visitors can trade coffee mugs for goblets and find a sense of community in a fantastical world.
The Renaissance Fair’s appeal isn’t just about its historical setting, it’s the thrill of immersing oneself in a different era. For some, it’s a place to go all out with high-quality costumes and elaborate props—anything from historical figures to mythical creatures. Others keep it simple, but still enjoy everything the fair has to offer.
“You can see anything ranging from a random person who was picked up by their friends with no costume, to a person who looks like some kind of Eldritch monster, or Elizabeth the First,” long-time enthusiast Lillian Campbell-Mills said.
This range of characters adds a sense of unpredictability to the fair, making every visit unique. The variety is part of the draw, which is why many attendees make the Ren Fair an annual event, with some being even more dedicated, going more than once.
“I usually go at least once a year, but I’ve gone at least twice this year,” fair-goer Marley Collinsworth said.
One of the main draws of the fair is the unique atmosphere, a blend of excitement and relaxation, where you are welcomed by the majority for simply being there.
“It’s very fun,” Collinsworth said. “Everyone is very kind.” One of the biggest attractions of the Ren Fair is the live entertainment—anything from comedy to chivalry. Many people look forward to the joust, where knights on horseback clash in a rousing display of bravery. Others enjoy the variety of musical guests who perform throughout the day.
“There’s a lot of very talented musicians there like Pictus and Wakefire,” Campbell-Mills said.
Whether it’s folksy Scottish music or a spunky rock band, live performances elevate the entire experience.
For some, it’s not so much about the shows, but getting involved in interactive activities such as archery, the pirate ship ride or even throwing tomatoes at taunting actors. These activities allow guests to actively engage with this captivating world, burying them further in the fantasy of the fair.
The vendors at the Ren Fair also play a key role in creating this rich experience. Along the dirt roads of the fairgrounds, guests can buy armor, jewelry, incense or even clan tartans. The market stalls also offer an eclectic mix of hand-made goods.
“My wife and I like to buy kind of weird, unique art sometimes that you may not find in other stores,” attendee Jeren Hernandez said. “Finding all those local artists or people who don’t necessarily have the money to put it into a big store.”
Whether it’s the engaging musical events, the confidence boost of donning a historically accurate cosplay, or the welcoming atmosphere, the Renaissance Fair offers an experience like no other. For many, it’s more than just a festival, it’s a cherished tradition to look forward to year after year.
“I just think it’s a very fun, relaxed place. It’s like a no-judgment zone,” fair-goer Emmett Kelly said. “People will be in jeans and a T-shirt and then there’s people dressed to the nines. It’s kid-friendly too.”
