What a beautiful weekend it was to step into an enchanted medieval forest and enjoy King Richard’s Faire! The costumes were amazing! We saw lots of fairies, princesses, peasants, magical creatures and even a knight in homemade tinfoil armor which my son is now determined to replicate for Halloween.
After grabbing a map and entertainment schedule we planned out our day, which was very helpful and minimized walking (and whining!). There are so many things to see and do with multiple performances at different stages. We enjoyed strolling through the marketplace, looking at the face painters, tarot card readers, sword makers, exotic drums, harpist, medieval ware and artwork. Minstrels, puppeteers and jugglers danced and played throughout the day.
We kicked off the day at the Great Cats of the World Show. we arrived about 10 minutes early to the Tiger Stage, and luckily got a seat. These majestic cats were beautiful and entertaining, jumping on pedestals, leaping in the air and climbing posts. After the show, you can watch the adorable cubs play in their den.
Photos courtesy of King Richard's Faire
Photos courtesy of King Richard's Faire
Next up was the Gaming Glen. My 4 and 6 year old loved the flying carousel and swinging pirate ships. There were other dart games and knife/axe throws that we watched -- they would probably enjoy them when they’re a little bigger. It was very entertaining to see people attempt Jacob’s Ladder and fall into bales of hay below.
The Royal Parade happens everyday around 12:30 in which the king and his court promenade throughout the forest. We watched from the Kid’s Cove, but you can see the parade pretty much anywhere. We ate our chicken fingers n’ fryes while the parade strolled by and then listened to the Songs of the Shire. The turkey legs, dragon wings n’ fryes looked delicious too, but we saved room for ice cream! There are gluten free, vegetarian and lactose free options, as well as other appealing menu items for kids. Plenty of adult beverages are available as well, but do bring your ID as they card everybody.
After lunch we listened to Arethusa Music and watched the Ladies of Draiku aerial show at the Dance Stage. Twisting through the air in red sheets high up in the sky was breathtaking. We also enjoyed the banter of The Lovelies (singing wenches) walking about as well as the Squire of the Wire tight rope walker and juggler at the Cottage Stage.
Photos courtesy of King Richard's Faire
The highlight of the day was the jousting match. This is a very popular event, so we got to the Tournament Field about 15 minutes early to stake out a good spot in the shade. Most of the faire is beneath the shady trees, but this event is not. We had a snack while we waited -- Katherine’s Kettle Korn stand had hot, fresh and delicious popcorn. The knights in shining armor battled on horses with jousting poles and swords. It was definitely humorous -- some of the jokes only parents would “get”-- and not scary.
Photos courtesy of King Richard's Faire
Parents with strollers- leave the umbrella stroller at home and bring a heavy duty all terrain or jogging stroller to maneuver around the tree roots. Wear comfy, closed-toed shoes as well.
Be sure to buy your drink/food tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in long lines during the mid-day rush. You’ll also need cash for games and rides; there are ATMs available.
Check out the website before you go. There are themed weekends and special events through October 25th!
I received tickets for myself and my family in order to experience the Faire and write this review. No other compensation was received, and all opinions expressed are my own.
