A Weekend Where New Hampshire Turns Medieval (and You’ll Love Every Second of It)

I don’t know what it is… but I’m an absolute sucker for a good Renaissance Faire.

Maybe it’s the outfits. Or maybe it’s just that feeling that for a few hours, you’re not in 2026 anymore… you’re somewhere between knights, queens, and a turkey leg that probably weighs five pounds.  I'm down for a turkey leg.

What You Need to Know

The New Hampshire Renaissance Faire returns to Fremont this May with dates set for May 9, 10, 16, and 17, 2026 at Brookvale Pines Farm.

It runs 10am to 5pm, and yes, you can absolutely show up in costume (and honestly… you should).

Website for tickets & info: The New Hampshire Renaissance Faire official website

Why Renaissance Faires Are Just… Fun

One minute you’re talking to a wandering bard, then somehow you’re holding a handmade mug thinking, “Do I need medieval pottery now?” (Answer: yes.)

There’s something about the mix of history, fantasy, and just straight-up weird fun that works. It’s immersive in a way that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s the magic.

What Makes This One Special

The New Hampshire version has a really cool local feel to it.

You're not just getting big shows, you’re getting over 100 artisans and crafters, many of them local, selling handmade everything from jewelry to costumes to herbal goods.

And it’s not just shopping… some of them are actually making the stuff right there in front of you, which makes it feel more like a living, breathing village than a festival.  That's pretty cool to see.

Also worth knowing, it’s a non-profit event that’s raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities across New Hampshire. So yeah… your turkey leg is doing some good in the world. According to the NH Renaissance Faire website, they donated over $69,000 to the New Hampshire Food Bank and $46,041 to the Rockingham County Nutrition / Meals on Wheels.

READ MORE: Here Is the Ultimate New Hampshire Fair Schedule for 2026

Things to See (and You Will See a Lot)

• Live entertainment, music, comedy, storytelling
• Royal court interactions (yes… you can meet the Queen)
• Fantasy characters roaming everywhere, fairies, knights, pirates
• Kids experiences like “Tea with the Queen” and knighting ceremonies

It’s one of those places where every few steps you stop and go, “Wait… what is happening over there?” and then you wander over and get pulled into it.

And Then There’s the Food

You’re getting classic faire food, kettle corn, sausages, drinks,and a bunch of unique vendors mixed in.

But let’s be honest… you’re going for the full experience. Which means eating something messy, walking around with it, and not caring at all.

There aren’t a lot of places where you can buy a handmade sword, talk to a queen… and be home by dinner.

For one day… you get to step out of real life, and into something a little more fun, a little more weird, and honestly… a lot more memorable.