Knights' tournaments, pubs, and a medieval village: New York City's legendary Renaissance faire opens

Residents of the Big Apple will be able to take a true journey back in time this August. The famous New York Renaissance Faire will reopen in New York State. This large-scale Renaissance fair features jousting tournaments, artists, themed weekends, craft stalls, and traditional cuisine. SecretNYC tells in more detail.

The legendary New York Renaissance Faire will open its gates on August 15.

Fair will take place in Tuxedo, which is approximately 64 miles from Manhattan, in the heart of the Hudson Valley.

The 2026 season will last eight weekends and conclude on October 4.

On the subject: Little Island Park has unveiled a summer program of 56 events and performances by over 200 artists.

The organizers note that event Suitable for both cosplay fans and anyone looking for an unusual weekend getaway.

What to try at the fair

One of the symbols of the Renaissance Faire will remain the enormous roast turkey leg. It's traditional to eat it while strolling through the village. However, the menu is much more varied. Among other things, they'll offer:

• deep-fried onion "flowers";
• falafel;
• chocolate covered bananas;
• Portobello mushroom sandwiches;
• vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Craft beer, cider, mead, and tea will be available for drinks.

Fans of atmospheric entertainment can purchase tickets to the popular Pub Crawl.

The entry fee is $90. The price includes four alcoholic drinks, and guests will be accompanied by a personal bartender. Tickets go on sale in August, and they usually sell out quickly.

Knightly tournaments and over 125 craft shops

The fair will take us back to the summer of 1574, during the visit of Queen Elizabeth I. Hundreds of performers in period costumes will roam the village.

Visitors can expect:

• full-contact knightly tournaments;
• acrobats;
• musicians;
• comedians;
• rides and games including the Sea Dragon Swing and Dragonslayer.

Before leaving, the organizers recommend stopping by the local market.

125 craft stalls will be set up here. They'll offer handmade chainmail, Scottish kilts, leather masks, flower crowns, and other items. You'll also be able to see demonstrations by blacksmiths and glassblowers.

Themed weekends for the 2026 season

Each weekend is usually dedicated to a different topic.

The program includes:

• August 15–16 – Marketplace Weekend. Shoppers who spend more than $500 in the marketplace will receive two free tickets to any event through September 20.
• August 22–23 – Cottagecore Weekend. Forest costumes, a costume contest, a cozy Cozy Crawl quest, and a themed ball.
• August 29–30 – Pirate Weekend. A celebration for pirate fans of all ages.
• September 5–7 – Time Travelers' Weekend. Guests are invited to come dressed in sci-fi, steampunk, or fantasy costumes.
• September 19 – Talk Like a Pirate Day. A one-day pirate festival with a ball, costume contest, and songwriting.
• October 3–4 – Harvest Ball. The final celebration of the season, celebrating the changing of the seasons.

How to visit the fair

The New York Renaissance Faire is open rain or shine from 10:00 AM to 19:00 PM. The fair will be open every Saturday, Sunday, and Labor Day from August 15 to October 4, 2026.
Tickets:

• adults - $60;
• children from 5 to 12 years old - $28;
• Children under 4 years old - free of charge.

Military personnel and visitors over 62 years of age can receive a discount upon presentation of identification. Season passes and single-day tickets are available. here.