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Must See Attractions at the Bristol Renaissance Faire

Children's Realm

This area in the Bristol Renaissance Faire is dedicated to young adventurers featuring games, crafts, and interactive shows. You'll find plays, live music performances, character visits, and a chance to become a real knight. These performances vary so check the schedule on the day of your visit. Put time on your schedule to enjoy the craft and art stations, indulge in face painting and medieval hair styles, and don't forget to shop for crowns, costumes, and more. 

Games and rides include escape adventures, mock battles, darts, bag tosses, and digging for buried treasure in the treasure pit. From dancing around the maypole to pretend jousting and court games, kids of all ages will have plenty to keep them entertained in the Children's Realm. 

Jousting

Watch in awe as knights battle in thrilling jousting tournaments. Have everyone in the family choose a favorite knight, and cheer them on as they fight to win your honor. Show times vary, but there is a regular schedule with multiple showings throughout the day. 

Watching a magic show at the Bristol Renaissance Faire. Photo by Joseph Gage via Flickr

Live Entertainment

From comedic shows to musical performances, you'll find it all at the Bristol Renaissance Faire. Check out Adam Crack, a Guinness Book World Records holder, and his Fire Whip show, which features fire play, jokes, and historical references. The Queen graces her kingdom with an appearance every Sunday, and the Bristol Buskin’ Frolic can be found dancing and singing throughout the festival—especially around the maypole! 

Fairy Tea Party

This spot, complete with tea and fairies, is a magical experience for little ones who love to dress up.  Check the schedule for available tea times.

Petting Zoo

Get up close and personal with farm animals at the petting zoo. This is a great spot to let kids stretch their legs, play in open spaces, and get close to fun farm animals. You can purchase feed, take photos, and cozy up to your favorite barnyard animal. 

Eating and Restaurants at the Bristol Renaissance Faire

The Bristol Renaissance Faire offers a variety of food options, and one of the most famous treats, found near Lord Mayro's Forum Stage at Farnham Way, is the fruit ice, a sorbet that comes in peach, orange, or lemon and is served in a natural fruit shell. 

Attempt to finish a turkey leg as big as your head at Turkey Low, or go for one of their other popular offerings—crepes. They don't disappoint! Indulge in traditional pub favorites like fish 'n' chips, Spanish fries, and a great kids' chicken finger basket at The Butter near the Globe Stage. This sit-down spot also has gelato—a favorite with kids. You can get gelato sundaes with cream, chocolate, or caramel sauce.

You'll also find kid favorites pretzel dogs and slushies (yummy flavors like strawberry and non-alcoholic pina colada) at the Black Swan, near the Cheshire Chase Action Stage. Another good sit-down spot is The Lion's Head, which offers fritters, chicken on a stick, and their famous BBQ ribs. 

Opt for one of the quick-grab food stands if you don't want a sit-down meal with busy little ones. Grab an ear of corn or cups of Mexican street corn. Nosh on a brat with your choice of onions or sauerkraut. Pickle stands offering flavors like plain, garlic, dill, and spicy are sprinkled throughout the grounds and additional food carts include roasted nuts and chocolate-covered pie on a stick. Stop by Pemberton Candies for homemade toffee, fudge, truffles, and chocolate goodies.

Vendors at the Bristol Renaissance Faire. Photo by Joseph Gage via Flickr

Shopping at the Bristol Renaissance Faire

Explore the artisan marketplace for unique souvenirs, including handmade crafts, jewelry, fantasy artwork, and medieval-inspired goods. Kids will find play swords, shields, stuffed animals, dragon eggs, bird whistles, and if you're feeling up to it, go for a Tarot Card reading! 

Know Before You Go

• Comfortable Attire: Dress in comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing, as you'll be on your feet all day.
• Sun Protection: Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the sun.
• Hydration: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day. Refillable water bottles are recommended; water fountains can be found throughout the Faire.
• Coolers and picnic items are prohibited although you can bring baby food, snacks, and food needed for medical reasons. 
• Plan Your Day: Check the schedule of events and plan your day around shows and activities that interest your family.

Getting There

Just 1.5 hours away from Chicago, the Bristol Renaissance Faire is conveniently located just off I-94 between Milwaukee and Chicago, making it easily accessible from both cities. The Faire's address is 12550 120th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53142. There is plenty of parking available and you can also bring in strollers or wagons. 

Dates and Times

The Bristol Renaissance Faire runs on weekends from early July through Labor Day, from 10am-7pm, every Saturday, Sunday, and Labor Day, offering ample opportunities to visit. There are rotating themed weekends, and a popular theme for kids is Pirates Weekend! Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on dates and opening hours.

Bristol Renaissance Faire Tickets

Adults are $40, kids ages 5-12 are $15, and children under 5 are free. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate, and you can opt to buy a season pass if you plan to visit multiple times during the summer.

Hotels Near Bristol Renaissance Faire

If you've got little kids who might need a nap, or you can't stand the thought of driving home after a festive day in the sun, book a room or two at a nearby hotel. 

• The Inn on Sheridan — Zion, IL
• Best Western Executive Inn — Kenosha, WI
• America's Best Value Inn & Suites — Racine
• Comfort Inn and Suites Mount Pleasant — Racine
• Delta Hotels by Marriott Racine — Racine

All photos by Joseph Gage via Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)