FAQ
General Information
What are the dates and hours of the Festival?
We are open Saturdays and Sundays, February 6th – March 21st, 2027. Festival hours are rain or shine from 10am – 6pm.
Is the Renaissance Festival open during the week?
The Festival is only open Saturday & Sundays.
Is parking free?
Yes! Parking is free. However, if you park in a spot of the park that is labeled “No Parking”, you will be towed. Please follow the parking attendants and directions for allowed parking.
Are you open during inclement weather?
We are open rain or shine. We do not offer refunds in the event of inclement weather.
How do I sign up to receive the Bay Area Renaissance Festival digital newsletter about events and activities?
You can sign up for the digital newsletter here!
What time are the Jousts?
The Joust is held 3 times daily at 12:30pm, 2:30pm and 4:30pm. This is FREE to enjoy and included with festival admission.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, the Festival is Dog Friendly! See our dog rules and registration page for more info!
Is the Festival wheelchair accessible?
The Festival is held in a natural, outdoor setting. Wheelchairs and motorized wheelchairs are allowed. We have disabled accessible parking, and disabled accessible portable toilets. Be certain to notify parking attendants of your need for accessible parking.
What are your gluten free options? What about vegetarian options? What do I do if I’m allergic to many of the food products you serve?
The Renaissance Festival makes every effort to accommodate the needs of our guests. If you adhere to a specific dietary regiment or have food allergies, the following Gluten Free and Vegetarian options are available to guests with special dietary requirements. Please refer to the festival program booklet for locations which you receive at the gate entrance.
Due to high volume production, The Renaissance Festival food locations cannot accommodate or guarantee separation of cooking surfaces. Those guests who suffer from sensitive or life-threatening allergies (such as peanuts, tree nuts, soy, milk, eggs and wheat) should exercise extreme caution as foods are transported, stored and prepared in close proximity.
Mid America Festivals is providing this information for informational purposes only. Neither MAF, its subsidiaries, affiliates, suppliers, vendors and/or employees assume responsibility for sensitivity or allergy to any food product or ingredient provided by or in our festival.
Are outside food and beverages allowed?
The Bay Area Renaissance Festival does NOT allow outside food or beverages through our gates unless the food is a medical necessity such as infant formula/baby food. (The Festival will allow one (1) unopened (factory sealed) 20 oz bottle of water per person to be brought through the front gate.) NO re-useable/re-fillable bottles are allowed. All flasks must be empty before entering the Festival gates! You may bring a cooler to leave in your car if you wish. If you choose to do so it must remain in your car. Patrons are welcome to leave through our gates, receive a hand stamp, return to their car and reenter through our gates later during the same day. Please note: all bags are inspected at the front gate! (This is for our employee’s and patron’s safety!) If you have any questions, please call 352-999-5946.
Can I bring a prop or peace-tied weapons?
Yes, any sort of foam, plastic, cardboard, toy or prop weapon is allowed. Real Swords, Knives, Dirks and Daggers are allowed, BUT they must be completely sheathed and peace-tied.
Longbows are allowed as long as they are not strung. BUT arrows with tips are not allowed unless you are competing in the longbow competition that day.
The Festival bans guns on our premise. Real Axes, Claymores, Maces, Antique Firearms, Pikes and Halberds are NOT allowed on the Festival site. No drawing of any weapon at any time. Must be 18 years or older to carry a weapon.
If you have additional questions, please visit our Key Policies or contact the Festival Office for more information at 352-999-5946.
If I leave the Festival, can I get back in?
Yes. Please have your hand stamped at the gate when you leave. When you re-enter the Park, show your stamped hand for re-entry. Festival only allows same day re-entry to the grounds. Re-admission is not allowed after 6pm.
Ticket Information
How much are tickets?
What does the admission price include?
Enjoy the Full Festival Experience!
Your admission ticket gives you access to all the exciting stage shows, including thrilling jousting competitions! Be wowed by the skill and daring of the knights as they clash in exhilarating displays of medieval combat.
Of course, the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to browse our selection of unique arts and crafts, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind treasures. We also offer a variety of delicious food and refreshing beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day. And if you’re looking for a bit of extra excitement, be sure to check out our rides and games! With options for all ages and interests, there’s something for everyone.
Please note that while access to the stage shows is included, additional costs may apply for arts and crafts, food and beverages, and rides and games.
We hope you have a fantastic time at the Festival!
Do you offer Discount Tickets?
Yes, please check our Deals & Discount page. It displays each theme weekend ticket promotions.
Are there special discounts for Military Service Members or First Responders?
Yes. Active military, vets, & first responders receive $5.00 off their gate admission with the proper ID. Festival Friday, all military & 1st responders get in FREE.
Are Weekend Festival Admission passes available?
Yes, Weekend Passes are good for two Adult Festival entrances for one person. Passes are non-transferable.
Note: Weekend Pass Holders will check in with the Festival Box Office and pick up two (2) admission tickets upon arrival.
If I wear a costume, can I get in free?
No, but we have a costume contest that occurs every day. Check our weekly schedule under each theme weekend to review the time and location of the contest.
Guest Services
Are there ATM machines?
Yes, 10 ATM machines are located on the Festival grounds. See where on the Festival Map.
Does the Festival accept credit cards?
The Bay Area Renaissance Festival is designed to transport guests back to the 16th century, most vendor and food locations ONLY accept cash, so guests are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Where can I breastfeed at the Festival?
Unfortunately, we do not have a designated area for breast feeding.
Can I bring a stroller to the Festival?
Yes! While there are a few sandy patches to navigate, the festival is stroller-friendly and generally easy to get around.
Where Is the lost and found?
If you’ve lost an item, please visit the webpage here and fill out the Lost & Found form to get instructions on locating and collecting your item.
What else can I bring?
All bags, purses, pouches, backpacks, waist packs, etc. are subject to inspection prior to entering.
Sharp objects (including pocket knives and metal chains), firearms, or other items that could be considered a weapon are strictly prohibited on Festival grounds and should be left at home or secured in your vehicle.