Cameron Tomele, one of three members of Barley Balanced a comedy and acrobatic show, juggles knives while balancing on a ladder.

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. (ACME NEWS) — The Carolina Renaissance Festival is back for its 31st season, and if you haven’t been, you should consider giving it a try. 

Just outside Huntersville, the 25-acre renaissance themed village is packed with castles, cottages, shows, and shops—all bustling with nearly 1,000 artists, performers, and costumed characters. There’s no shortage of things to do, see, smell, and taste, making it easy to spend an entire day experiencing everything the festival has to offer. 

“It absolutely offers a surprisingly enjoyable experience even for those who think it’s not their scene,” says Matt Siegel, the festival’s Director of Marketing & Entertainment. “Walking through the forested European-style village on a cool autumn day, with a vibrant backdrop of color-changing leaves, is a sensory delight. The costumes, music, performances, shopping, games, rides, food, and drinks—all cater to every age and taste. And the people-watching alone is pure entertainment as thousands attend in amazing costumes. Try it! You might discover a hidden interest in the arts, history, and more.”

Two performers from the Washing Well Wenches show introduce themselves to the crowd; dancers spin around in mid-air during a mini show; belly dancers perform with fire. [left to right]

When most people think of a Renaissance Festival, they picture headline attractions like jousting—but there’s so much more included with admission. Unique exhibits like Swimming Mermaids offers visitors a chance to meet and chat with mermaids up close, while over 16 stages showcase a variety of lively performances. From belly-dancing gypsies twirling fire to acrobats juggling knives atop ladders, there’s entertainment around every corner. An educational falconry show features birds flying just inches above the audience’s heads, and for those looking to sit back and relax, shows like the Washing Well Wenches guarantee laughs.

In the Village Artisan Marketplace, over 140 vendors offer handcrafted goods, from jewelry and leather to pottery and artwork. Many items are crafted on-site, so guests can watch traditional artisans, like glassblowers, or even work with a swordsmiths to craft your own sword.

An owl flies inches over the head of a crowd at the falconry show; a performer juggles with fire while balancing on a board, also on fire, and story-teller rests in a chair. [left to right]

With its blend of entertainment, food, and old-world charm, the Carolina Renaissance Festival has become one of the region’s favorite fall events. The festival is open every Saturday and Sunday through November 24, rain or shine. Gates are open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with schedule adjustments as needed in case of adverse weather.

You can find out more and purchase tickets online at https://www.carolina.renfestinfo.com/

(Photos credit Scott Pelkey / Acme News)

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