Prepare for the Faire: renfaire advice from someone who has been attending for 10+ years
I started going to the Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire in SoCal with my family when I was younger and have gone almost every year since. I have watched the faire change and grow and have learned all the tips and tricks that will make your faire day easier and a better experience. These aren’t the basic ones you’ll hear all over Instagram and TikTok, mostly from people who have only gone to the faire once or twice, they are more niche and you might brush them off, but I promise they are worth it.
Belt bags:
Backpacks and shoulder bags are good for space, but a long day at the faire will wear on you so I’d recommend a belt pouch or two and maybe pack a small foldable bag for all your shopping.
Tip your performer with cash! Ok some do have venmo.
Trinket trading:
While trinket trading is fun and encouraged at the faire, it is not okay to do with the performers (exceptions being handmade art and gifts), especially instead of tips. These people are trying to make a living off of their acts and the merch they sell. So please tip them and purchase their wares with actual money. Also for trinket trading, don’t just buy thirty plastic ducks or mushrooms off Amazon, bring thoughtful trinkets. Ideas include little things you made, like stickers or bracelets, or things you’ve found, like shells or rocks. Meaningful, fun little things.
Bring cash:
I can’t believe this is something I still have to say, the faire is very open that most drinks, food, and games are cash only. I’m shocked people are still surprised. Pull cash before you arrive as the ATM lines get crazy long. Also again, it’s really important to tip the performers.
Ale or water still need cash and still can have long lines.
Emergency water bottle:
This is just for desperate times, like water lines being a 20 minute wait when you are overheating. If you go to the first aid area and ask for pain killers, they will also give you a bottle of ice cold water for free when asked.
Don’t risk leaving me behind, get your hand stamped!
Hand stamp:
Even if you think you are done for the day, make sure you get your hand stamped as you leave just in case. You never know if you’ll have to reenter the faire because you need to pick up a prized purchase you had them hold so you wouldn’t have to lug it about or you left your cape you spent hours making under a tree when you ate your fruit ice, or you forgot you wanted to see the end of day joust, and so on.
I hope this helps you for your next trip to the faire. My friend group has talked about traveling to explore other renfaires and I am so excited for more silly, fantasy fun.