Toddlers
Music, animals, bubbles and costumes. Plan a shorter visit around naps, and find the shade and washrooms early.
Ren Faires With Kids
Knights, dragons, jousts, music and a whole village to explore. Ren faires are some of the best family days out there, and with a little planning they're easy.
Tickets
A child's ticket usually costs about 59% of the adult price, and many faires let kids 5 and under in free. Two adults and two kids pay a median of $70 at Canadian faires.
If there's a family pass, buy it: 20 of the 22 we've seen cost less than four tickets. Buying early saves about 20%. See what a ren faire costs.
What works at each age
Ages 5 to 10
The sweet spot. Jousts, sword shows, kids' quests, crafts, and getting knighted or crowned. Let them pick a show or two.
Tweens and teens
Archery, axe throwing, armoured combat and the market. Many like a bit of freedom with a meeting time and place.
Plan the day
- Arrive early. Shorter lines, cooler temperatures and easier parking.
- Check the show schedule. Pick the one or two things your kids most want to see, and get to the joust early for a good seat.
- Agree on a meeting spot. Pick something easy to find, like a stage or the gate.
- Put your number on them. A wristband or a note in a pocket with your phone number. Show them what staff look like.
- Take breaks. Find a shady spot to sit, eat and rest between shows.
- Leave before the meltdown. A shorter, happy day beats a long one.
What to bring
- Water bottles for everyone
- Sunscreen and hats
- Snacks, if outside food is allowed
- Wipes and hand sanitizer
- A change of clothes
- Rain layers
- Ear protection for little ones, for cannons and loud shows
- A small blanket to sit on
- Comfortable shoes
- A bag for treasures
Strollers, wagons and toy weapons
Many faires are on grass, gravel or trails. A sturdy stroller or a wagon handles them better than a light umbrella stroller, and a carrier works well for babies. Check the faire's website, since a few limit wagons in crowded areas.
Kids love wooden swords. Most faires allow toy weapons as long as they're peace-tied and nobody swings them at people. Many faires sell them at the market, so you may want to set that expectation before you arrive.
Dressing up
Kids get more out of the day in costume, and performers often play to them. Keep it comfortable: a cape, a crown, wings or a tunic over normal clothes, with good shoes. See what to wear to a ren faire for ideas.
Money
Games, rides, crafts and the market add up fast. Give older kids a set amount for the day, in cash, and let them choose. It cuts down on asking, and they'll think harder about what they buy.
Ready to pick one? Find a faire near you on the Canadian calendar.