I stepped back in time over the weekend. I went to the Carolina Renaissance Festival in Charlotte, NC. And according to its website, it's one of the largest Renaissance fairs in the United States.
The festival is a Renaissance-themed amusement park on about 325 acres of woodlands. I felt like I was in an eternal forest. It has everything from live entertainment to great food. I saw aerial artists swinging from an oversized curtain and an all-male band complete with banjos and other string instruments.
What To Expect
And there were rides -- none of them powered by electricity, of course. That is deliberate because back in the 16th century there was no electricity. Therefore, the rides are powered by humans. For example, there were see-saws and swings where humans used their own body weight to power the rides.
And of course, I can't forget about the food. In the Renaissance era, it was definitely about the food. They believed in 'feasting', so there is everything from turkey legs, fish and chips, fudge and chocolate-covered pretzels, beer, wine, and even mimosas.
And as you walk along, there are plenty of artisan demonstrations and circus entertainers. I even witnessed a talking tree. It was actually a man on what looked to be 12-foot stilts dressed in a tree costume. It kind of freaked me out a little, but was entertaining for the kids.
There is shopping -- some 140 vendors from herbalists selling fresh herbs to leather makers who make belts and purses. There was even a custom boot maker who literally custom-designed boots to fit your foot - while on your foot. It doesn't get more customized than that. There was also jousting - though I didn't make it there. It's on the opposite end of the property. It was quite a hump to get there.
Things To Know Before You Go
As I mentioned earlier, the festival covers over 300 acres so here are a few of my suggestions before go:
- Make sure you have on your walking shoes when you visit the festival. I wouldn't recommend your 'good' walking shoes because there is lots of dirt and dust before you enter the festival. You'll be you'll be on gravel to get to main entrance.
- If you're into immersing yourself into the Renaissance experience, you may want to stop at the costume shop at the main entrance. They have helpful staff to find a costume that fits you. You can try it on inside the costume shop.
- There are ATM's at the main entrance in case you're short on cash, but most vendors except credit card of debit.
- If you plan to catch a show, grab a schedule of start times from the information desk at the main entrance of festival.
- Drink plenty of water. It was in the 80's while I visited and I had on a costume. It easy to get dehydrated.
- Be open to new experiences and have fun!
The festival is open on the weekends and runs through November 19th.
5 Can’t Miss Festivals This Fall And Winter In Jackson County North Carolina
Fall is here and winter is quickly approaching. And this is the perfect time of year to plan a mountain getaway to the mountains of North Carolina. And the towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, and Sylva are ready to host you and visitors from all over at 5 festivals and events in the Jackson County towns. This area is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Charlotte making it the perfect spot for a fall or winter getaway. From leaf season which is a site to see anywhere in the North Carolina Mountains, to winter and the holidays and maybe even a snowfall there is something for everyone to enjoy.
These 5 festivals and events take place between October and December and include fall craft festivals and holiday events across Jackson County. But even if you can't swing a trip before the holidays, perhaps pay a visit at the beginning of the year with small crowds and lower prices. And an even better chance for that snow I'm dreaming of! Keep reading to learn more about these events. And get more info on planning your visit here.
Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival
Dates: October 6th-8th
Location: The Village Green 160 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers, NC
This annual three day festival features 90 artisan vendors, live music, crafts for kids, food trucks, and more. Everything sold at the festival is handmade by the vendors including unique handcrafted wood, pottery, jewelry, and more. All while the leaves are turning their gorgeous colors the beautiful mountain village of Cashiers. The Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival is free to attend.
WNC Pottery Festival
Date: November 4th
Location: Bridge Park, Railroad Ave, Sylva NC
One of the top events in the North Carolina mountains and Top 20 event in November in the Southeast the WNC Pottery Festival features more than 40 master potters, with many demonstrations in a variety of techniques. Potters come from over 13 states and work with a variety of clay art styles.
Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries
Dates: December 1-2, and December 8-9th
Location: Downtown Dillsboro
2023 marks the 40th anniversary or Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries. The downtown of Dillsboro comes alive with 2,500 candles and white lights. There are carolers, cocoa and cider, and horse-drawn carriage rides. There is also live music and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Cashiers Christmas Parade
Date: December 2nd
Location: Cashiers Crossroads
Don't miss the Cashiers Christmas Parade this December. Local businesses, organizations, and residents take part in the yearly parade that travels a 1-mile loop.
Sylva Christmas Parade
Date: December 3rd
Location: Downtown Sylva's Main Street
This hour-long parade features floats, bands, and of course, Santa makes an appearance. If you're in town you'll also want to check out the town's tree lighting and fireworks on December 1st.
