Step back in time and immerse yourself in the world of knights, kings, and queens at the Arizona Renaissance Festival. Held annually from early February to early April, this event offers a unique experience of the Middle Ages. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of medieval costumes, or looking for a fun family outing, the Arizona Renaissance Festival is the perfect destination.
The History of Arizona Renaissance Festival
Running for over 30 years, the Arizona Renaissance Festival is held on a 50-acre site in Gold Canyon, AZ. From February to March, visitors can enjoy a unique glimpse into medieval times with jousting tournaments, human-powered rides, and live entertainment.
What to Expect at the Arizona Renaissance Festival
Upon entering, you’ll be transported to the Middle Ages with medieval music, food, and costumes. Activities range from jousting tournaments to live performances and games, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The festival operates on Saturdays, Sundays, and Presidents Day Monday from February 3 to March 31, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, rain or shine. Free parking is provided, but pets are not allowed.
Jousting Tournaments
The highlight of the Arizona Renaissance Festival is the jousting tournaments. Visitors can watch as knights compete in horseback riding contests, armed with lances and shields. The jousting tournaments are held several times a day and are a great opportunity to experience the excitement of medieval combat.
Live Performances
Enjoy a variety of live performances, from acrobatics to comedy acts. Musicians and singers perform medieval-themed music throughout the day on stages like the new Mynstrel’s Roost. With 16 stages, visitors can experience non-stop entertainment, including swordplay, raucous music, and interactive comedy.
Food and Drink
Feast your way through the festival with hearty foods, decadent desserts, and a variety of beverages. Highlights include:
- King’s Kitchen and Pub: Turkey legs, skewered chicken, roasted corn, and a variety of beers and wines.
- The Cappuccino Inn: Specialty coffees, Italian sodas, and a selection of teas.
- The Chocolate Maker: Fruits dipped in chocolate, peanut butter cups, and English toffee.
- The Gelato Guys: Italian gelato and sorbetto.
- The Mediterranean Fare: Falafel, gyros, Greek salad, and more.
- Rovin’ Throughout the Realm: Pathway carts offering champagne, cinnamon almonds, jerky, pickles, caramel apples, and nut rolls.
Crafts and Shopping
Browse handcrafted jewelry, clothing, and period costumes in the artisan marketplace. Unique souvenirs and gifts are abundant, enhancing the medieval experience. The marketplace features over 200 artisans displaying handmade wares such as blown glass, leather goods, and jewelry. Watch artisans create masterpieces before your eyes, making it a shopper’s paradise.
Games and Rides
Test your skills with target-shooting, paintball battles, and axe throwing. For children and those young at heart, enjoy people-powered rides such as the Assault Catapult, The Piccolo Pony, Da Vinci’s Flying Machine, and the Voyage to the New World.
The Pleasure Feast
Join the most exclusive event in Fairhaven at the Pleasure Feast, featuring a Pirate Brouhaha. Enjoy a five-course meal with upbeat music, sea-faring silliness, and audacious pirate humor. This limited attendance event is held at the Festival’s Feast Hall twice daily at 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm. Tickets include festival admission, the feast, and a souvenir toasting goblet. Note that the event contains risqué humor.
Ticket Information and Prices
Tickets are available online for easy and convenient printing:
- Adults: $34.00
- Children (ages 5-12): $22.00
- Children (4 and under): Free
- Seniors (60 and over): $32.00
- Military Personnel and Spouses: $32.00
- Military Children (ages 5-12): $20.00
Season passes and group discounts are also available. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the Festival Box Office.
Group Discount Tickets
Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled adventure at the Festival and receive a group discount. With the purchase of 15 or more tickets in a single online transaction using a special promotional code, groups can save $2.00 per ticket. Children 4 and under are free. The group organizer and tour bus driver receive free admission. Parking is free for buses and motor coaches, courtesy of Bashas’ & Food City.
Season Passes
Season passes offer unlimited access to the festival, making it easy to enjoy all the event has to offer:
- Sir Lancelot Season Pass: $265 (Ages 13+, includes VIP parking)
- Royal Season Pass: $215 (Ages 13+)
- Squire Season Pass: $120 (Ages 5-12)
Season passes are valid for all festival days and provide a great value for frequent visitors. Online sales end January 31st, and passes can be picked up at the Will Call Window on show days.
Directions & Map
The Arizona Renaissance Festival is located in Gold Canyon, just seven miles east of Apache Junction on US Highway 60. Conveniently accessible from various regions:
- From Metro Phoenix: Take the Superstition Freeway (US Hwy 60) East, past Gold Canyon Golf Resort to the Festival.
- From Metro Tucson: Take the Pinal Pioneer Parkway (Hwy 79) to Florence Junction, then West on US Hwy 60.
- From Casa Grande: Take Exit 185 to Hwy 387, connecting to 87/287 to Florence, then North on Hwy 79 to Florence Junction, and West on US Hwy 60.
- From Flagstaff/Northern Arizona: Take I-17 South to Phoenix, then East on Superstition Fwy (US Hwy 60), past Gold Canyon Golf Resort to the Festival.
Weddings at the Renaissance Festival
Inspired by the romance of the Renaissance era, the Arizona Renaissance Festival offers a magical backdrop for weddings of all sizes. Tailored packages can accommodate intimate elopements to elaborate ceremonies, ensuring every detail is perfect. Your guests will be enchanted by the lively atmosphere, creating cherished memories. Enjoy a feast fit for royalty, with menus inspired by the era’s culinary delights. Contact the dedicated wedding team to start planning your unforgettable celebration.
Final Thoughts
The Arizona Renaissance Festival is a captivating event that brings the Middle Ages to life. Whether you’re a history buff, costume enthusiast, or seeking family fun, this festival is a must-visit. Don your best medieval attire and celebrate at the Arizona Renaissance Festival!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Arizona Renaissance Festival
The Arizona Renaissance Festival is an annual event that takes place in Apache Junction, Arizona. It offers visitors a chance to experience the world of medieval times, complete with jousting tournaments, live performances, and food and drink.
The festival typically takes place between early February and early April.
While visitors are not required to wear costumes, many people choose to dress up in medieval attire for a more immersive experience. Costumes can be purchased on-site or brought from home.
Yes, the festival is suitable for children of all ages and there are plenty of activities and attractions designed specifically for kids.
Yes, there are discounts available for groups, military personnel, and senior citizens. It is always best to check the festival’s website for the latest information on discounts and promotions.
Yes, free parking is provided by Bashas on-site. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot though.
The festival runs from February 3 to March 31, 2024, open on Saturdays, Sundays, and Presidents’ Day Monday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
The festival is held in Gold Canyon, AZ, seven miles east of Apache Junction on US Highway 60.
Yes, parking is free courtesy of Bashas’ and Food City stores.
Admission includes free parking and access to all entertainment shows, including jousting tournaments and Birds of Prey performances.
You may bring one factory-sealed bottle of water. No other outside food or drinks are permitted.
No pets are allowed, but service animals are welcome.
Yes, costumes are encouraged. Rentals are available on-site. Costume prop weapons must be sheathed and peace-tied.
Yes, the festival is wheelchair accessible, with designated parking, restrooms, and seating.
The festival is open rain or shine. No refunds will be provided due to inclement weather.
Yes, there are 8 ATM locations across the festival grounds.
Yes, you can re-enter the festival on the same day with a hand stamp.
Tickets can be purchased online, in advance, or at the festival gate. Discounts are available for seniors, military personnel, and groups.
Ensure your phone’s screen brightness is high enough for the QR code to be scanned. If issues persist, visit the Will Call window for assistance.
- Sacred Cacti: The Spiritual Uses of Peyote and San Pedro - June 18, 2024
- Mel’s Diner in Phoenix, AZ: A Nostalgic Journey Through Time - June 12, 2024
- The Hopi Prophecy: Ancient Predictions for Modern Times - May 22, 2024
