This Washington Renaissance Faire Is a Magical Way to Spend a Summer Night

There's nothing quite like summer in Washington state. We have breathtaking national parks to explore, lakes to swim in, trails to conquer, and, of course, the Washington Renaissance Faire. This popular festival includes five full weekends of complete merriment. You'll immerse yourself in the Midsummer Renaissance's Village of Merriwick, surrounded by costumes, food, games, activities, shows, and much more.

Each year, the Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire takes place in the town of Snohomish, where guests are encouraged to don their best knight, joker, and fairy costumes to partake in the 16th-century Elizabethan affair. In our opinion, there's no better way to spend a summer night in the Evergreen State! Ready to learn more about this year's festival? Read on to get the details of this Medieval festival in Washington.

Why Locals Love This Washington Renaissance Festival

The Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire will take place on weekends from July 18 to August 16, 2026. But this summer festival has attracted locals and tourists since 2010, when the first event took place at Maris Farms in Buckley, Washington. Now, this five-week festival takes place along Sky Meadows Lane in Snohomish, but it feels like you've been whisked away to another time and place.

Renaissance Faire fans love this festival because it's so immersive. The decor, performance stages, staff dressed in authentic 16th-century garb, and Ye Olde English being shouted left and right make you feel as though you've entered the Village of Merriwick. Plus, each weekend boasts a unique theme with characters—like knights and fairies—to match.

Of all the unique things to do in Washington, this event is certainly the most exciting... and family-friendly. There's plenty to do for people of all ages, from dancing to face painting to outdoor games and much more. You’ll laugh, cry, dance, and cheer; the entertainment truly enhances your overall experience.

What Visitors Can Expect at This Exciting Summer Festival

Once you arrive at this magical festival, we highly recommend stopping by the performances first. The Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire is well-known for its seven stages featuring performers like Jacques ze Whipper, a famous circus performer, and Fuegoscuro, stunning fire dancers who light up the night. A full list of performers will be posted at the festival, but for an early sneak peek, check out the fair's Facebook page.

You can't miss the jousts, either. Knights on horses will fight for Queen Elizabeth I's honor, and encourage bystanders to cheer them on! As you stroll across the vast festival grounds, you'll also stumble upon pub crawls, tea parties with Princess Cecelia, knightings, and wandering bards and mistrels mingling with guests.

The festival also boasts several artist vendor booths where you can shop for authentic handmade souvenirs. After browsing, hit up attractions like a Birds of Prey exhibit and giant swings, where you’ll soar through the air on 40-foot timbers. Axe throwing, face painting, and archery are just a few of the other activities you can experience—it is impossible to be bored here.

When you get hungry, the food court will be waiting. Feast on hearty turkey legs, desserts, and foaming beverages like Sasparilla, root beer, and cider (non-alcoholic options are available, too). You'll find refreshment stations throughout the fair, and plenty of spots to quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger, too.

And we can't forget about the weekend themes. This year, enjoy exciting themes like Viking Weekend (July 18-19), Dark Fantasy Weekend (August 1-2), Pirate Weekend (August 8-9), and Fae and Fables Weekend (August 15-16). For more info on what's offered during each run, visit the fair's website.

Other Things to Know Before Visiting

If you're planning to participate in this majestic Washington summer festival, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your visit is seamless. For one, tickets must be purchased online in advance—they are not sold at the gate. Single-day adult tickets start at around $30, but children 5 and under are free. Parking is also free!

On-site camping options are also available if you'd like to stay for the full weekend. Both tent and RV spots can be booked, but make sure to reserve your spot early since they fill up quickly. You can also bring your own outside food and non-alcoholic beverages, if needed.

Gates open at 10 a.m. each weekend and close at 7 p.m., though certain night events run until midnight. If you're from out of town and you're looking for ways to fill your spare time, check out our list of hidden gems in Snohomish County. The greater Snohomish/Everett/Monroe area offers plenty of dining, shopping, and nature to discover.

Have you been to the Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire before? If not, make this summer your first time! We highly suggest planning your trip during other Washington summer festivals—it's the best way to jam-pack your summer with exciting activities.