Summer might not always be the best time of year to be goth, but it does have one advantage: the Renaissance Faire is back! If you’ve never explored the Philadelphia area Renaissance Faire, you’re in for some medieval magic, with enough activities and attractions to keep you busy for days. Whether you’re a hedge witch, a plague doctor, or a dark knight, there’s sure to be something in this guide to delight anyone who wants to take a glimpse back through the centuries.
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2024 PA Renaissance Faire Activities
The PA Renaissance Faire is filled with activities with a gothic flair, from demonstrations of medieval musical instruments to an exhibition of torture implements from the Middle Ages. You can watch blacksmiths and glass blowers use techniques that date back to medieval times, or get your fortune told by a tarot card reader. (Although even just having a seat and people-watching with a mug of ale is a fabulous way to spend an afternoon.)
Another fun activity is making a potion to take home at the roving Wish Bottle cart. The Wreck Room is another favorite, where you can buy a set of glass bottles and smash them for some catharsis.
Demonstrations
The Faire offers an Archery through the Ages experience twice a day at 11:30 and 5:30 that shows you how English longbows were made and gives a long range demonstration.
You can also watch authentic glassblowing, and even make a trinket of your own with these ancient techniques. Classes are one-on-one and cost $65. Time slots are every half hour and must be reserved in advance, so get your tickets here.
The La Forge blacksmith shop also makes authentic medieval weaponry you can take home with you, with live demonstrations throughout the day.
Shows
A variety of entertainments are put on throughout the day, including comedy skits with audience participation, bawdy poetry readings, magic shows, a falconry exhibit & demonstration, human chess, juggling and acrobatics, and, of course, jousting. Here are some highlights, with dates to help you plan your visit:
Comedy Shows
There are so many hilarious comedy shows at the Renaissance Faire, you’ll never be able to see them all in one day. Even the acrobatic and juggling performances typically have comedic elements, making it easy to get into the spirit with some good old fashioned bawdy japery.
The Bastard Monks
If you like your humor irreverent, risque, and downright filthy, this comedy duo is not to be missed. The premise of the show is two inept monks trying to explain God’s will with the help of puppets–and hilarity ensues. You can see these bastards in all their glory from August 31-September 15.
The Ploppy Show
Hilarious and bawdy, Ploppy’s comedy show features audience participation, games, and plenty of dirt (literally and figuratively). Whether you join her onstage or watch safely from the sidelines, you’re sure to get an experience you won’t soon forget. Ploppy appears from September 21-October 27.
Arthur Greenleaf Holmes
Combining highbrow literary references and lowbrow humor, this is one poetry lesson you won’t want to miss. Arthur Greenleaf Holmes is scandalous, surprising, and riotously funny, and he’s at the Faire through the whole season, so you’re sure to catch his questionable verses whenever you decide to visit.
Music
Music is the best time machine (at least until the Tardis shows up for the Time Travelers Weekend), and there are so many performers at the faire ready to whisk you back in time. You’re bound to hear snatches of ancient tunes drifting on the air as you make your way through the fairground, but you can also attend numerous musical performances that go on all across the Faire.
The Faire has several wandering musicians playing the fiddle, cello, and other instruments throughout the day (tips are appreciated).
The musical duo Rover’s Way hosts two daily beer tastings at the Pyrate Ship when they’re not appearing onstage playing traditional and folk music from the Celtic Isles and across Canada and the U.S. Musicians Matt and Keira travel around full-time performing at festivals, and you can catch them at the Renaissance Faire for the full season.
You can also hear Celtic Legacy, a group of lads who bring a comedic, bantering twist to their bagpipe, guitar, and drum playing. They’re in it for the long haul, delighting crowds with their music for the full season.
Medieval & Renaissance Musical Instruments
You can see a demonstration of the hurdy gurdy, a period accurate musical instrument, from musician Dora Violette. Learn some music history and hear medieval and Renaissance music, as well as enchanting Celtic and folk songs. Another can’t-miss musical performer is Lady Grace Note, who enchants audiences with her hammered dulcimer playing.
Don’t forget to catch the Pub Sing at the end of the day, when all the musicians at the Faire gather together to join the festivities.
Drama & Storytelling
Regi Carpenter Storyteller
This master storyteller delights audiences at festivals and gatherings across the country and beyond with tales of humor & drama that will make you laugh and tug at your heartstrings. Catch her all-ages show from August 24-September 8.
Burbage & the Bard
This troupe of cracked actors puts a new spin on classic drama, as playwright Wilhemina Shakespeare and actor Richard Burbage put on the Bard’s plays with plenty of added songs, silliness, and risque banter. Come see their irreverent Shakespeare sendups from October 19-27.
Juggling & Acrobats
Kamikaze Fireflies
This death-defying duo has won five Guinness World Records with their stunts and received a standing ovation on America's Got Talent. Watch them juggle flaming hoops, pins, and witty banter from August 17-24.
Aaron Bonk
Renowned for his flaming whips and hilarious quips, this whip artist always puts on a thrilling show. Featuring juggling, whip cracking, and a healthy dose of dark humor, this show is one of the best at the Faire. Catch Aaron Bonk’s antics from October 12-27.
Adamo Ignis
This fire-breathing maiden is not to be missed! Her act features dancing, drumming, and plenty of mind-boggling feats of daring. See her perform breathtaking stunts and flirt with danger from October 5-27.
These are just a few of the amazing entertainment options at the PA Renaissance Faire. You can look up all the performers online to help you plan your day, or just wander the fairground and see where the whim takes you. Either way, you’re sure to encounter a fun way to spend a few hours as you wander the booths and taste the local delicacies.
Jousting
Combining the thrill of combat and the chivalry of a bygone age, jousting is a fixture at the Renaissance Faire–for good reason. Professional jousting company Noble Cause Productions is highly trained in stage combat and always puts on a great show. There are usually two jousting shows per day, the last one right before the fair winds down for the evening. This is the event that always draws the biggest crowd, so be sure to get there a bit early to get a good spot in the shade–and a great view.
Exact times for the performances are shown on the schedules given out when you enter the Faire.
Food & Drinks
A smoked turkey leg is the classic Renaissance Faire fare (see what we did there?), often served wrapped in crispy bacon. This is a meal in itself–wash it down with some local craft beer or sweet, refreshing mead. Just because they didn’t have turkeys in medieval Europe (or potatoes for that matter) doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a tasty turkey leg and fries.
Other food options include: german sausages with sauerkraut and potato salad, chicken fingers, steak and seafood, soups and sandwiches, pulled pork, crab dip, tacos, hot dogs and burgers, pickles on a stick, baked potatoes, roasted nuts, fudge, pretzels, cookies and scones, mac and cheese, fruit smoothies, fresh fruit salad, italian ice, ice cream, and kettle corn. Check out the website for the full menu.
Non-alcoholic beverages available are: gourmet iced and hot teas, fountain sodas, lemonade, and bottled water, as well as iced and hot coffees, cappuccinos, and lattes from the two Dark Knight coffee stands.
Several pourhouses on the fairground serve local beer and wine varieties, absinthe cocktails, honey mead, frosted cranberry hard cider, bourbon cocktails, tequila drinks, hot toddies, rum cocktails, and refreshing slushies. (Honestly, it’s worth the season pass just to try all the food and drinks you’d never be able to have in a single day.)
All eateries and pourhouses are cash only, so be sure to bring enough to keep you fed throughout the day. There are a few ATMs near the entrance, but they charge a slight fee to withdraw cash.
Kid-friendly Shows & Activities
Shows
Nature of Mercy
This swashbuckling pirate-themed performance showcases the brave Duchess Francesca battling an evil pirate captain, with enough swordplay and witty quips to entertain audiences of all ages. It also features the Pyrat Kids Duelling School, allowing children to join in on the adventure onstage. Nature of Mercy runs for the full season, so you won’t miss out on the fun no matter when you come.
Edged Feather Experiences
If your older kid is crazy about nature and animals, this is the perfect chance to see predatory birds like falcons and owls up close and watch them perform hunting behaviors with wildlife educator Crystal “Cryss” Stacey. Cryss and her birds are here for the whole season, so don’t miss the chance to make some feathered friends.
Buckle & Swash
These two wise-cracking pirates are known throughout the Shire for their all-ages comedy show and swordfighting antics. Come have a laugh and enjoy this action-packed extravaganza from October 5-27.
Activities
There are several kid-friendly arts & crafts activities at the Renaissance Faire, such as booths that offer face painting and mask making. You can even make a colorful wax hand to take home with you.
On the Halloween Days and Spooky Knights theme weekends starting October 12, kids are invited to participate in Trick-or-Treating in the Shire, with bags and maps available at the information booth.
Kids can also meet a unicorn! (Well, sort of), as miniature therapy horses with cute horns make appearances at the fair from August 31-October 27. This is a great opportunity to snap a photo to remember your special day.
Vendors & Souvenirs
There are over a hundred vendors at the Faire, selling handcrafted wares like leather clothing, kilts, walking sticks, jewelry, carved drinking horns, flower crowns, candles, pirate gear, chainmail, hats, toys, puppets, ceramics, silk scarves, cloaks & capes, corsets, and more.
You can also purchase wine bottles, tea blends, spices, local honey, and candies to take home with you. There are so many places to grab a memento for yourself, you’re bound to find one that intrigues you. It’s also a great place to pick up a few unique gifts if you have any birthdays or special occasions coming up.
Many vendors at the Faire accept cards, but some are cash only, so be sure to bring some cash or take some out at an ATM on your way into the fairground.
Goth Gifts
Some uniquely spooky gothic collectibles are available from artists and craftspeople at the fair, including creepy vintage porcelain dolls, morbid art and jewelry, dark fantasy illustrations, bone artwork, stained glass artwork, crystals, and jewelry and art made out of dried foliage.
Many of these booths are run by guest merchants who may only be there for certain days during the Faire, so be sure to check the website for availability if there’s a specific craft that strikes your fancy. Or, you can just wander the marketplace and let yourself get swept away.
Goth-friendly Events & Activities
Halloween Days and Spooky Knights
Starting on the weekend of October 12, the Faire becomes awash in creepy atmosphere as all manner of gruesome creatures are welcome–which is great news for goths. There’s also a costume contest and a Halloween Treasure Hunt to help you get into the spirit.
Dungeon Museum
What better way to spend a sunny summer afternoon than wandering a dark dungeon? Here you can see iron shackles, cages, and the gruesome iron maiden while learning about medieval tortures. It’s also a great place to beat the heat.
Tarot Reading
Get mystical with a tarot card reading and ponder your possible futures. If you’re already dressing in witchy finery, why not channel your inner magick? Consulting the cards is an excellent way to bring a bit of gothic fun to your visit–hopefully Fortune smiles on you.
Fight Circle
Here you can suit up with armor and challenge your friends and family to a sword fighting duel. It’s a great way to have some fun and unleash your inner demons. You might have to wait around a bit since this attraction is very popular, but you’ll get the chance eventually!
Dice Knight Adventures
This is a festival-wide RPG experience that’s sure to be a blast for fans of Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role-playing games. It only happens on certain weekends, so check the site before you plan your trip, and get ready to bring your character sheet to life.
Tickets & Hours
The PA Renaissance Faire runs from August 17-October 27 on Saturdays and Sundays. It’s open from 11 A.M.-8 P.M. and costs $33.95 for adults and $17.95 for children 5-11. Children 4 and under get free entry. After September 21, ticket costs go up slightly; adult tickets become $37.95 and children’s tickets become $19.95.
Tickets are only available online unless you plan to enter the fair after 4 P.M. for Sunset Admission, in which case they can be purchased at the gate from 3:30 onwards. This is a great option if you decide to come to the Renaissance Faire at the last minute to soak up some medieval ambiance, as the ticket price is reduced by nearly half.
Food, drink, and merchandise vendors start closing up shop around 7 P.M., so be sure to grab dinner and souvenirs early if you do decide to opt for Sunset Admission.
If you live nearby and plan on visiting on multiple weekends throughout the season, full season passes are available for $185 for adults and $60 for kids. You can also pick up 10-day Flex Passes for $140 for adults and $60 for kids.
As you can see, there’s A TON to see and do at the fair, so these passes are a good value if you want to get the most out of it (especially if you have a lot of medieval goth outfits to show off).
Get your tickets here.
Can I bring a dog to the PA Renaissance Faire?
Yes! But you can’t just show up at the gate with your furry little guy. First, you’ll have to submit a registration form, waiver, and photo of your dog and let them get back to you with an approval email, which usually takes about one business day. Once your dog is approved, you can purchase a Royal Hound Ticket online for $5 per dog. Learn more here.
Service dogs are always welcome and do not require tickets.
Fairground Information
Accessibility
The fairground is wheelchair accessible, with mostly paved walking paths although there are some gravel areas around vendor stands and slight inclines. Wheelchairs and scooters are not available for rental. ASL interpretation is available as long as you provide a minimum of two weeks’ notice and email the business office at RoyalSPK@PaRenFaire.com to let them know.
Parking
There’s a huge gravel parking lot outside the fairground with attendants to help direct cars. Handicapped spots are available near the entrance. You can ask one of the parking attendants to show you where they are.
If you’ve overindulged in the royal ale, it’s permitted to leave your car overnight and find another ride home. (However, camping out isn’t allowed.)
General Info
Maps are provided at the entrance to help you navigate the attractions, and there’s an information booth where you can learn all about the events and activities going on at the fair on the day of your visit. The fairground also has a first aid station located near the rear of the festival grounds if you should come to some misfortune.
The Faire takes place on a 90-acre outdoor site, with a 35-acre village to explore, so there’s plenty of ground to cover. In addition to walkways and seating areas, the grounds include performance stages, grassy areas with trees for shade, and plenty of nooks and crannies with benches where you can have a seat.
Special Events
The Feasting Glen area of the fairground is available to book for special events like weddings, graduation parties, and anniversaries. Visit the Mount Hope Estate & Winery/PA Renaissance Faire Group Sales site for more information about hosting your special day at this unique venue.
Places to Stay near the PA Renaissance Faire
The PA Renaissance Faire offers lodging packages at a variety of nearby hotels.
You can also find an AirBnB or Bed & Breakfast in nearby Lancaster, which is very picturesque and has a number of cute, charming restaurants and shops as well as museums, theaters, and bars. It’s in the heart of Amish country, so don’t miss the opportunity to check out the local crafts, food, and culture.
Hotels
Fulton Steamboat Inn
This unique Lancaster area hotel in a Victorian steamboat features a full bar and restaurant and fantastically unique lodgings complete with an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and gym. Kids will love the playground and duck pond on the property, and everyone will agree their amazing breakfast is the best meal of the day.
With rooms starting at $129 per night, it’s also very reasonably priced. Click here for more info.
Avid Hotels Lancaster
This full-service hotel is located just minutes from popular attractions like Dutch Wonderland Amusement Park and Lancaster Central Market. It has an indoor pool, sun deck, continental breakfast, gym, and free parking–and they allow pets. Guest reviewers loved the cleanliness and convenient location.
Rooms start at $94, so it’s also a great value. Learn more here.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
This highly-rated hotel offers plenty of amenities, including an indoor pool, fitness center, and hot tub. It’s close to downtown Lancaster and a quick and easy drive away from the Renaissance Faire in nearby Manheim. A tasty breakfast is available, along with free wi-fi and parking. Learn more here.
Cork Factory Lancaster
This historic hotel made from a converted factory features gorgeous exposed brick walls and pipes for an industrial feel, and spacious rooms with granite bathrooms. Guests rave about its restaurant and cocktail bar with delicious food and a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
The hotel includes free wi-fi and parking, and it’s located close to Amish country attractions and the Lancaster Museum of Art. It also has a gym and a relaxing terrace.
With rooms starting at about $140, it’s also very reasonably priced for such a beautiful and unique place to stay. Get ahead of the rush and book your stay now.
Classic Inn Lancaster
This cute 2-storey inn near Lancaster is close to everything the city has to offer, with clean and spacious rooms that include a refrigerator and microwave for heating up those leftovers you’re sure to come home with after checking out the local restaurants. Families in particular find the accommodations to be welcoming and convenient to the Dutch Wonderland Amusement Park.
Rooms start at about $150 per night for a family of 3. Learn more here.
Cartoon Network Hotel
This hotel is the only one of its kind anywhere, and it just happens to be situated right near Lancaster, a short walk from the family-friendly Dutch Wonderland Amusement Park. In addition to its colorful Cartoon Network-themed decor, the hotel has an indoor pool and a seasonal outdoor pool, a restaurant and bar, 24-hour front desk, and entertainment staff to help make your stay unforgettable. There’s also free parking and wi-fi.
With rooms starting at $210, it’s a bit of a splurge, but for such a unique experience you won’t regret it. Check it out here.
The Inn at Leola Village
This charming Historic Hotel of America features an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, and wi-fi. It has all the amenities of a big 4-star hotel like room service, an airport shuttle, spa, breakfast, concierge service, and a bar and restaurant in a quaint and picturesque package. Children and pets are not allowed.
Rooms start at $170 per night–and they fill up fast! Book your stay here.
The Country Inn at Lancaster
Located 5 miles from downtown, this charming inn has rustic decor and classic Amish style quilts in the rooms for a bit of local flair. It has every convenience you could want, including continental breakfast, a restaurant & bar, 24-hour front desk, room service, heated pool, hot tub, and even a pool table.
Rooms start at $179 per night. Find an available room here.
Vrbo
If a hotel isn’t really your speed, a Vrbo is great for privacy and convenience that feels like home. Check out some of these exceptional Vrbo rentals available in the Manheim/Lancaster area:
Sweet Lancaster Suite
If you’re attending the Renaissance Faire with a group of friends, check out this gorgeous Lancaster suite that provides spacious accommodation for 6 people with beautiful exposed brick walls, two full baths, and modern decor right in the heart of historic Lancaster. Pets are not allowed. At $595 per night, it’s a bit on the expensive side, but a good value if you have a large group. Check availability here.
Rare City Home w/ Backyard Fire-pit & Hottub
This charming rental house has a lovely garden and outdoor space with a barbecue grill, as well as the amenities listed. It’s great for families who want to spend some quality time together, and it’s just a short walk from the Lancaster County Central Park and the Convention Center, as well as the center of town. At around $219 per night, this home is a great value for your stay (no pets allowed). There are also two parking spots included. Plan your stay here.
Center City Historic
Another convenient option in the heart of Lancaster, this 19th-century townhouse is perfect for couples who want to be right in the heart of the city. With a kitchen, air conditioning, and free wi-fi, it has all the convenience of a hotel, complete with coffee and tea on hand. The property does not allow pets or children. With stays starting at $160 per night, it’s hard to resist this city getaway. Check it out here.
Lexington Hideaway
This 2-bedroom home is located just minutes from Manheim, making it very convenient for guests who are visiting the Renaissance Faire. It’s located close to Lititz Springs Park as well as charming shops and restaurants. The perfect size for a family of four. Stays start at $170 per night, however, the owners do not allow pets. Learn more here.
High End Tiny Home
This tiny house will make a big impact! Located in Elizabeth, PA a short drive from Manheim, it has all the conveniences of a hotel in a miniature package. This house is part of a 14-acre community of similar custom built tiny homes, and the grounds are scenic and tree filled, with several ponds and lots of natural beauty. Despite its small size, up to four people can stay in this unforgettably unique lodging. Stays start at $169 per night (no pets). Check availability here.
Attractions Near Lancaster, PA
The Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art
Located in Chadds Ford, PA about 25 miles southwest Philadelphia, this museum is known for its massive collection of paintings by Andrew Wyeth, painter of the famous Christina’s World, and his son, the prominent contemporary artist Jamie Wyeth–as well as works by other talented artists in the extended Wyeth family. It’s tucked away in a picturesque woodland location with huge windows that give an amazing view of the lush forest.
Admission is $20 for adults and $8 for children and students. The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so keep that in mind as you plan your trip. If you’re traveling to the Renaissance Faire from Philly, it’s not far out of your way, and definitely worth a visit if you’re planning on spending the whole weekend outside the city.
The Brandywine Conservancy is dedicated to preserving the watershed of the Brandywine River, and it operates several nature preserves nearby. There are enchanting nature paths to wander on the campus of the museum & conservancy, with four miles of public trails open daily from sunrise to sunset. Between sightseeing along the relaxing trails and viewing the artwork on display, you could easily spend a whole day at this unforgettable local attraction.
Valley Forge National Historical Park
Another popular destination located between Lancaster and Philadelphia, this beautiful park is a great place to pick up some history before you step back in time. Here you can visit George Washington’s headquarters and see the National Memorial Arch marking the road where Continental Army soldiers marched into the encampment in 1777. Museum exhibits show artifacts and documents from Washington’s army, as well as rotating exhibitions.
The park also offers rich opportunities for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife such as deer, groundhogs, and foxes. It is open year round, with no entrance fees, and has over 35 miles of trails for walking and biking. Bike rentals are available if you’d like to take a spin.
Lancaster Evening Ghost Tour by Candlelight
For travelers of a spooky persuasion, a ghost tour could be just the thing to cap off your day in the Lancaster area. A candlelit tour of historic Lancaster will take you through 300 years of haunted history, from Pennsylvania Dutch folklore to tales of forbidden love and lost fortunes in one of America’s oldest cities. If you’re looking for an activity brimming with gothic atmosphere, a ghost tour is the ultimate way to commune with the past. (And with tours starting at $25, it’s also easy on your wallet). If you find yourself in town with an hour and a half to kill (no pun intended), why not explore some ghostly lore?
Learn about available ghost tours here.
Lancaster Downtown History & Craft Beer Walk
This fun way to learn some local history meets at Lancaster’s colonial square and takes you on a journey through time as you explore significant architecture, colonial churches, and the nation’s oldest continually operating farmer’s market and theater. Discover colorful characters from history and learn about the Prohibition era’s impact on the area over delicious local craft beers at the end of the tour. The tour lasts 2 hours, making it a fun “bite-sized” activity if you have a free afternoon and would like to learn some local lore and taste some delicious beer from the region.
Learn more and book a spot here.
Lancaster Science Factory
This is a hands-on interactive science and technology museum for kids in grades K-8, featuring experiments with electricity, acoustics, chemistry, magnetism, and more. It’s a small museum, but very fun and inexpensive. A great outing for kids ages 5-11 if you are spending a bit of time in the area and have a free afternoon.
Lancaster Central Market
This is the place to purchase fresh produce, cheese, coffee, fudge, and pastries, as well as delicious ready-made foods. Tourists come from all around to experience the local culture and traditions, and just to wander the marketplace taking in the ambiance. This is the oldest continuously operating farmer’s market in America, and it’s been here since 1730. If you’re staying in Lancaster, it would be a great place to stop in for breakfast before you head to the Faire. The market is open on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 6 AM-3 PM.
Lancaster Craft Brewery Tour
If you’re a lover of great beer, Lancaster has a lot of delicious options. Why not take advantage of having multiple craft breweries within easy walking distance? On this tour, you’ll sample a curated selection of 12 craft beers and learn about the brewing process, hear some local anecdotes, and get behind-the-scenes access to several popular area brewers.
This 4-hour tour takes you to three local breweries with a knowledgeable guide so you can sample the best of the city. It costs $79 per person, but it’s a good value for a tour of multiple breweries with so many tasty samples.
Book a tour here.
Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park
If you have young kiddos, this child-friendly park with rollercoasters, rides, shows, and water attractions would be an excellent place to spend a day. For families who are planning on spending a few days in the Lancaster area, this charming park is a must-visit.
It has a classic wooden roller coaster, merry-go-round, log flume, teacups, and bumper cars, as well as larger coasters and a water park area to help beat the heat. At $69.99 per ticket, the admission price is a bit steep, but the park runs reduced price promotions throughout the season. Kids 2 and under get in free.
Check the park’s website for tickets and hours to plan your visit.
The Winery at Mount Hope
Located right by the Renaissance Faire, the Winery at Mount Hope offers public tastings for $1 per wine sample, as well as formal wine tastings for private groups of 15 or more at the Wine Shop. It’s open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 AM-5 PM. They have an array of delicious varieties you can also buy at the Renaissance Faire wine shop.
It’s also the home of the Swashbuckler Brewing Co., where the official beers of the PA Renaissance Faire are painstakingly crafted, as well as a distillery where they make the spirits and cider served at the Faire.
You can purchase all their tasty concoctions here.
Tanger Outlet Mall
If you want to expand your shopping horizons beyond the Renaissance Faire, good news! There’s a huge Tanger Outlet Mall nearby in Lancaster County where you can find luxurious clothes, shoes, jewelry, and handbags. Come for the medieval costumes, stay for the designer fashions.
Stores include Banana Republic, Talbots, J. Crew, Michael Kors, Francesca’s, and West Elm, just to name a few. Visit their website to see all the stores and learn about upcoming discounts and promotions.
The Fulton Theater
Catch a show at Lancaster’s historic Fulton Theater, an architectural marvel built on the site of a Revolutionary War-era jail. The Fulton has gone through many transformations in its long life, from prison to opera house to movie theater, and it now houses local theatrical productions, concerts, and shows by touring companies.
Recent past shows include productions of Kinky Boots, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Wiz, Doubt, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, and Fun Home. The theater also offers a family series every season with kid-friendly fare like Rapunzel and Shrek: The Musical.
See what’s showing and book a ticket here.
The Amish Farm & House
If you want to learn more about the fascinating culture of Lancaster’s Amish residents, this authentic farm allows you to visit and experience a day in the life of an Amish family. Learn about what life is like on an Amish farm and step back in time while you explore their crafts and lifeways.
The farm allows you to feed animals, explore an authentic one-room schoolhouse, and visit a historic covered bridge. They also offer a Countryside Bus Tour that will take you on a 90-minute journey deep into Amish country, where you can see houses, farms, shops, and yes, horses and buggies.
With Farmhouse tours starting at $12.95 for adults and $8.95 for kids, it’s also an inexpensive way to experience Amish customs. Learn about all the available tours here.
Hershey Park
Pennsylvania’s largest amusement park offers thrills, chills, and delicious chocolatey treats. Hershey Park is located about 15 miles east of Harrisburg, around 45 minutes away if you’re staying in the Lancaster area. It’s got classic wooden coasters and ones with loops, plunges, and super speed, as well as swings, teacups, bumper cars, multiple water rides, and a tilt-o-whirl. There are lots of kid-friendly rides and a huge waterpark with slides to keep you cool, as well as arcade games and a marine mammal show with seals and sea lions. Hershey Park also features shopping and dining options that set it apart from your run-of-the-mill theme park, such as the Chocolatier Restaurant.
Halloween-themed Dark Nights start up on September 13, so if you’re in the mood to experience haunted houses and other spine-tingling attractions, late summer/early fall is the perfect time to visit.
The park is closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday in September, and Monday-Thursday in October (except on Halloween). Park hours vary slightly, but are generally around 11:00 A.M.-7:00 P.M. The Boardwalk water park is open from Memorial Day-Labor Day. The full schedule is available on the Hershey Park website.
1-Day Regular tickets cost $86.95 at the door, or $64.95 online. Kids 3-8 and Seniors 62+ are $56.99. Save on entry with promotions like the Happy Hours Ticket, which lets you enjoy the park after 4:00 P.M. for just $34.99 (valid until September 8). Visit the website to see what the park has to offer and plan your visit.
Echo Dell Indian Echo Caverns
Explore the subterranean world of this famous cave system, just a 30-minute drive from Lancaster heading toward Harrisburg. Guided 45-minute tours will take you deep underground to see stalactites, beautiful minerals, and other rock formations and geological wonders.
There’s also a picnic area, gift shop, and a playground and petting zoo with goats for the kids.
The caves are open from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. seven days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For the rest of the year, the hours are 10:00-4:00, and the caves are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays from January to March 10, as well as on major holidays. Tickets are $24.50 for adults and $14.50 for children under 12. Kids under 2 get in free.
Delmuth Museum & Lancaster Museum of Art
The Delmuth Museum in historic downtown Lancaster is dedicated to the works of local artist Charles Delmuth, who was a modernist active in the early 20th century. Delmuth is noted for his spellbinding poster portraits. Along with these, many of his drawings and watercolors are on display, as well as a series of rotating exhibitions of artists from Lancaster and beyond. The museum also features a garden of flowers like the ones that inspired Delmuth’s series of floral watercolors.
The Lancaster Museum of Art showcases over 400 artworks from the region and around the world, including paintings, drawings, collage, and sculpture. It also hosts lectures and rotating exhibitions, as well as activities for kids and workshops such as Wine and Watercolor, along with the affiliated Delmuth Museum. Located in the heart of downtown Lancaster, it’s a perfect place to stop and take in some world-class artwork while you sightsee in the city.
Both museums are located within a few blocks of each other, so it’s easy to visit them both with a picturesque stroll in between. Admission is on a donation basis, with a suggested donation of $5-$10. Both museums are closed on Mondays and Wednesdays. Visit their website for information about what exhibitions will be showing during your trip, and don’t miss this wonderful Lancaster area attraction.
North Museum of Natural History & Science
Featuring rotating exhibits and south central PA’s largest planetarium, this Lancaster museum is not to be missed. It contains an exhibit tracing the evolutionary lineage of the dinosaurs and even a live animal room where you can befriend snakes, lizards, and all kinds of creepy crawlies. Visitors can touch real dinosaur bones and fossils in the Paleontology Gallery, and explore what Pennsylvania looked like 200 million years ago–a great idea for time travelers who are visiting the Renaissance Faire.
The STEAM art gallery also displays art from the region inspired by science and nature, providing a vital and often overlooked link between the arts and sciences. There’s also a geology room filled with beautiful geodes, rocks, and minerals, as well as an ornithology exhibit featuring birds lost to extinction in North America.
Tickets are $18 for the museum and planetarium, and just $11 for the museum only, with children under 3 free of charge. Hours are 10 AM-3 PM, and the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. This hidden gem of a museum is a great value for a fun and educational family outing–get tickets here.
Lancaster Goth Scene
Lancaster boasts a surprising number of goth events for a city of its size, and if you happen to be in town on the right weekend you can drop in on all the local spooky people. There’s a monthly club night called Shadowland Dance Party at Little Mutants every fourth Saturday. There’s also a Sanctuary Dance Night featuring dark new wave & alternative music, though that one doesn’t have a set schedule so you’ll have to check the Facebook page to see when the next one is cropping up.
You can visit Angry, Young & Poor for punk, goth, and alternative records and apparel. They also sell a huge variety of inexpensive band patches, studs, and spikes to help you DIY the next jacket, tote bag, or battle vest of your dreams. If you’re passionate about keeping the scene alive (especially outside of big cities), this store is a must-visit!
FAQs
What should I bring to the Renaissance Faire?
Comfortable shoes are the main thing, as well as weather appropriate clothes. The Faire spans late summer to early fall, so the weather can be very changeable. It’s a good idea to bring a light layer to throw on and a hat and sunglasses if it’s sunny (and an umbrella or rain poncho just in case).
A tote bag would be handy to carry any drinks, snacks, and other goodies you pick up along the way. A blanket might also be a good idea in case you can’t find a seat in a dining area or you’d just like to have a picnic.
Make sure you have a photo I.D. on you if you plan on drinking alcohol. You’ll get a hand stamp or wristband indicating you’re over 21. Food stalls and pourhouses are cash only, so have a wallet or purse where you can securely carry the cash you need.
How much will it cost to attend the Renaissance Faire?
Apart from admission, you can probably expect to spend around $30 per person on food & beverages assuming you get one meal and a snack, not including any alcoholic drinks you might buy. Food options vary at the Faire, with everything from sit-down restaurants to food carts, so you’re sure to find something that suits your budget and your appetite. Beer, cider, and mead are about $8 each, while wine and cocktails cost a bit more.
Craft vendors set their own prices, and available keepsakes range from inexpensive trinkets to handcrafted luxury goods. If you plan on doing a bit of shopping, factor in an extra $50 to $100, depending on what you’re looking for. It’s hard to leave empty handed!
Some services and activities might cost a bit extra, such as face painting, bottle smashing, or fortune telling. Many performers also accept tips via cash or Venmo, so keep that in mind and show them some love.
Does the Renaissance Faire have a dress code?
The Faire is a family event, so appropriate attire is required (nothing too revealing or shirts with offensive slogans, etc.). Shoes must be worn. Full masks are okay, as long as you’re willing to take them off upon request.
What if it rains?
The Renaissance Faire is a rain or shine event, so a little rain won’t spoil the festivities. However, if the weather takes a turn for the worse it may delay some performances since most of the stages are open-air.
Do I need cash at the Renaissance Faire?
Yes, food and drinks are cash only. However, some craft vendors accept cards. There are ATMs inside near the gate, but you can avoid fees by bringing cash from home.
Can I buy a ticket for the Renaissance Faire at the gate?
Only Sunset Admission tickets are sold at the gate starting at 3:30 P.M. for entry after 4:00. Regular tickets for adults and kids (and dogs) must be purchased online.
Can I get a refund?
All tickets are non-refundable once they’ve been scanned at the gate. Tickets cannot be exchanged.
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And there you have it! This guide to all the 2024 PA Renaissance Faire and the surrounding area have to offer should help you plan a day trip or weekend getaway that will take you back to the age of kings and queens, magic and romance, and gothic darkness. Now grab a turkey leg, lace up your favorite corset, and get ready for a festival to remember. Huzzah!