HUZZAH! Attention all ye sires and m’ladies, it’s finally that time of year to don your lederhosen or maiden frock, put on your plushie head or fluff up your falcon and let it all hang out at the 5th Annual Sherwood Forest Faire.
You, your friends, your kids and your gallant Knight alter-ego can click your heels, add an “e” to every word and be magically transported back in time at this fun-filled, charming and authentic Renaissance Faire. Starting on Saturday, February 8 and located in McDade, Texas at Sherwood Forest, the Faire (see the ‘e’?) is set in a 23-acre permanent village in a bucolic wooded setting that features more than 100 permanent buildings including shoppes, pubs, restaurants and stages.
The fun and frolic will be in full swing Saturdays and Sundays in February and March (and also on Friday, March 14), each day from 10 am to dusk. While there, stroll through the village, gnawing on a giant turkey leg, sipping some grog and enjoying the sights and sounds of more than 100 musical, comedic and dramatic performances per day. Watch a full-contact heavy armor joust, falconry or dog show, or just people-watch, taking in the sights and sounds of the many folks who attend in full Renaissance regalia (and you are welcome and encouraged to do the same).
When you get peckish, if you’re not into the massive turkey leg, there are plenty of other tasty food and drink options, from good ‘ole pizza and beer to Boar on a Bun, Prince and Princess Poppers (we don’t know, either), crepes, or even Chicken Paprikash. For a full list of food and beverage options, click here.
See metal turned molten at a real blacksmith shop or get an artfully applied henna tattoo. Buy a princess dress or flowing scarf (with which you can practice your rhythmic gymnastics!), a glistening dagger or a beautifully carved wooden tankard or chess set. The kiddos can play carnival games, wander through a maze, practice archery (couldn’t hurt to be prepared for the Zombie Apocalypse) or ride rides operated by staff all in period costume and character. Don’t expect to ride the Zipper, though, since in the spirit of authenticity, none of it is motorized.
Tickets are $20 at the gate for adults (age 13+), $16 for military/seniors and $10 for kids aged 6 – 12. Kids under 6 get in free. Or, SAVE MONEY by ordering tickets in advance here. Also, take advantage of a two-fer on Bring-a-Friend Sundays (every Sunday until noon except closing day) by purchasing one daily admission and getting a second of equal or lesser value FREE. Click here for more information on the Faire in general.
Can you hear the caw of the falcons beckoning you to the land of Robin Hood’s merry men, pirates, nobles and fae folk? We can.
Enter to win 4 tickets!
This giveaway is now closed, congrats to our winner!
– Claudia
Claudia Weber is a transplanted Austin mom, local realtor who loves to share the best of Austin with families like hers – whether they’re moving to town or just looking to embrace the best Austin has to offer. Find out more at www.claudiasellsaustin.com. Also, get a super-cool free NEW HOME SEARCH APP by clicking here!
Sherwood Forest is a great place to spend family time together. I have been the last 2 years and have a great time.
Sounds like sooo much fun!
I live in St. Louis, MO and visit my daughter Tam so I can go to the Sherwood Faire with her. I have made lots of new friends and have BIG fun joining in. Thanks!