Here’s What Carolina’s Renaissance Fest Looks Like (Video)
You have probably been hearing a lot about the Carolina Renaissance Festival. It’s one of the largest Renaissance festivals in the country. If you are like me and have never been before, it’s not too late. Get a sneak peak of what my experience was like.
But prepare yourself – it’s a world of its own. According to the website, the Carolina Renaissance Festival sits on 325 acres of woodlands. It’s pretty big so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. And the festival truly embraces the Renaissance theme. As you’ll see in the video, it’s a village of arts and crafts in an open-air Artisan market.
I even got into “character” so to speak and got dressed in a Renaissance-themed costume. It definitely makes for family fun and can satisfy the appetite of the most curious.
There is a caveat. The festival is only open on weekends. You can visit Saturdays and Sundays now through November 19, 2023. The gates are open from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. – that’s rain or shine unless there is dangerous inclement weather.
Learn more HERE.
5 Can't Miss Festivals This Fall And Winter In Jackson County North Carolina
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.
