Huzzah! 7 Secrets And Must-See Attractions For The Colorado Renaissance Festival 2026
The Colorado Renaissance Festival (CRF) is gearing up for its triumphant return, promising a summer of time-travel to a 16th-century Tudor village near Larkspur, Colorado. As of late December 2025, while the official 2026 schedule is yet to be fully confirmed, the festival is expected to launch its 49th season, continuing its tradition as the front range’s premier summertime event. This guide compiles the most recent information, projected dates, and insider secrets to ensure your 2026 trip is filled with more merriment, mead, and mayhem than ever before.
Typically running for eight festive weekends, the 2026 season is projected to kick off in mid-June and run through early August, transforming the 650 W. Perry Park Avenue location into the magical Realm of royalty, artisans, and jesters. Prepare to step beyond the castle gates and into a world where the Joust reigns supreme and the Washing Well Wenches hold court.
Projected 2026 Dates, Tickets, and Themed Weekends
Based on the previous season’s schedule and historical trends, the Colorado Renaissance Festival will likely run from June through August 2026, offering eight unique weekends of entertainment.
Projected 2026 Season Dates:
- Opening Weekend: Mid-June 2026 (Likely June 13-14)
- Closing Weekend: Early August 2026 (Likely August 1-2)
- The festival operates Saturdays and Sundays only, rain or shine.
Projected 2026 Ticket Pricing (Based on 2025 rates):
While official 2026 pricing has not been released, expect gate prices to be similar to the previous year, which used an All-In Pricing model:
- Adults: Approximately $32.00 at the gate.
- Children (Ages 5-12): Approximately $14.00–$15.00.
- Children 4 & Under: Free Admission.
- Discounts: Look for discounted single-day tickets at King Soopers locations. Many loyal patrons also opt for Season Passes for unlimited access.
The Essential 2026 Themed Weekends
Each weekend features a distinct theme, encouraging patrons to dress up and participate in the interactive theater. These themes are a core part of the festival's topical authority and are expected to return in 2026:
- Magical Fantasy Weekend: A favorite for those who love Creative Fairies, Beautiful Fantasy Fawns, and other Magical Mystical Characters.
- Ale & Art Festival: Featuring special beer, mead, and cider tastings, alongside a showcase of the Realm’s finest artisans. This weekend often coincides with a Military Appreciation event.
- Children's Weekend: Dedicated activities, shows, and special events for young knights and maidens.
- Celtic Weekend: A celebration of the Celtic heritage, featuring traditional music, dancing, and perhaps a few extra bagpipes.
The 7 Must-Experience Attractions and Hidden Gems
The Colorado Renaissance Festival is more than just a fair; it’s a 16th-century Medieval Amusement Park. To get the most out of your 2026 visit, focus on these seven core experiences, which are the heart of the festival’s enduring popularity.
1. The Joust (Combat Joust)
The Joust is the undisputed centerpiece of the festival. Unlike some theatrical shows, the CRF features a full-contact, steel-shattering combat joust where knights on horseback charge at one another with real lances. This is a spectacular, high-energy show that draws record crowds, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot near the arena.
2. The Legendary Washing Well Wenches
No trip to the Ren Fest is complete without a visit to the infamous Washing Well Wenches. These fan-favorite performers are known for their irreverent, humorous, and clever shows that are a blend of comedy, singing, and adult-friendly banter. Their performances are a prime example of the interactive theater that makes the CRF unique.
3. The Birds of Prey Show
For a break from the rowdy comedy and combat, seek out the daily Birds of Prey shows, often led by experts like Sky Quackenbush. These educational and awe-inspiring demonstrations feature some of the planet's most magnificent raptors, including falcons and owls, showcasing their natural hunting abilities and grace in flight. It’s a crucial, quieter entity that adds depth to the entertainment lineup.
4. The Culinary Realm: Turkey Legs and Mead
The food is an attraction in itself, and two items are non-negotiable for any first-timer:
- The Classic Turkey Leg: The quintessential Ren Fest food. They are enormous and, when fresh, offer an excellent food-to-price ratio.
- Fried Pickles: A fan favorite often cited as one of the best snacks.
- Other Entities: Look for Elk Jerky, Popcorn Shrimp, Pizza, and the ever-popular "Meat on Sticks." For drinks, try the local Beer, Mead, Ciders, or even a Margarita to cool down.
5. The Ten Stages of Non-Stop Entertainment
The festival boasts ten stages of continuous live performances. Don't limit yourself to the headliners. Wander the grounds and discover a diverse range of acts, including:
- Jugglers & Acrobats: Often performing death-defying feats.
- Minstrels & Musicians: Providing traditional medieval tunes.
- Sword Swallowers & Fire Breathers: Extreme acts of skill and danger.
- Adam: A returning headliner known for his unique brand of comedy and performance.
Insider Tips for Your 2026 Adventure (LSI Keywords)
To maximize your experience in the Tudor village, a few practical tips, often shared by seasoned patrons, are essential.
Beat the Heat and Crowds: The festival can be hot AF (as referenced by a popular online discussion) with limited shade. Arrive right at the 10:00 AM opening time to enjoy the cooler morning hours and get a jump on the crowds before the mid-day rush. Hydration is key.
The Artisan Vendors: The CRF is a massive marketplace for unique, handcrafted goods. The vendors offer everything from clothing and accessories for peasants, pixies, and pirates to fine leather goods, jewelry, and weaponry. Bring cash, as the lines at the ATMs can be notoriously long, a common pain point that can be easily avoided.
Costumes & Interactive Theater: Guests are strongly encouraged to join the fun and dress up. The costumed cast of maidens faire and other characters are schooled in the art of interactive theater, meaning they will engage you in conversation, drawing you deeper into the 16th-century world. The more you participate, the better your experience will be.
The Colorado Renaissance Festival is a multi-sensory experience that continues to draw record attendance year after year. Whether you are seeking the thrill of the combat joust, the irreverent humor of the Wenches, or simply a massive Turkey Leg, the 2026 season promises to deliver a magical tour through time and legend.
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