New Jersey Renaissance Faire
5-26
Burlington County Fairgrounds
On May 26th, I attended the New Jersey Renaissance Faire in Columbus, New Jersey. The event was held at the Burlington County Fairgrounds, conveniently located just outside of Mount Holly and easily accessible from Route 206. Parking was right across the street from the fairgrounds, which was not only convenient but also free. As I walked towards the festival entrance, I was warmly greeted by helpful cast members who provided clear directions and a friendly welcome.
Inside the fairgrounds, the atmosphere was immediately immersive. More cast members, dressed in period costumes, were ready to engage with visitors, sharing jokes and entertaining stories. Wandering musicians played enchanting melodies, adding to the magical ambiance of the Faire. The sheer variety of activities and performances was astounding, ensuring that there was never a dull moment.
Multiple stages throughout the Faire hosted a continuous lineup of events. From mesmerizing magic shows and hilarious comedic acts to thrilling sword fights and impressive whip-cracking displays, there was always something captivating to watch. One of my personal favorites was "Story Time with Jack Bold" at the Fantasy Hollow stage, where the storyteller’s charisma and wit kept the audience spellbound. I also thoroughly enjoyed the Ses Carney shows and the dynamic performances of the Lords of Adventure at the Unicorn Stage.
In addition to the performances, the Faire featured a bustling marketplace with a wide array of vendors. These merchants offered a delightful assortment of goods, from handcrafted wands and swords to intricately designed kilts, hats, and Renaissance-inspired clothing. I was particularly impressed by the historical education groups, such as Clan of the Raven, which provided fascinating insights into the Viking Age through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
For those looking to indulge their taste buds, the Faire did not disappoint. There were numerous food and drink vendors offering a variety of delectable options. Classic Faire fare like turkey legs and dragon legs were a hit, and the lemonade stand provided a refreshing respite from the heat. I also treated myself to an excellent iced latte, which was a perfect pick-me-up during the day.
The Faire offered a host of engaging activities suitable for all ages. Visitors could try their hand at axe throwing and archery, enjoy horse and pony rides, or visit the animal petting area. These activities added an extra layer of excitement and fun, making it a truly family-friendly event. One of the highlights of the day was the jousting matches and the knightly combat show "Tournament of Virtue" held at Swain Field. The spectacle of armored knights clashing in combat was both thrilling and entertaining.
The New Jersey Renaissance Faire runs for two more weekends, June 1-2 and June 8-9. Tickets are available both online and at the gate, making it easy to plan a visit. With so much to see and do, I am already considering returning for another day to experience some of the activities and performances I missed.
A piece of advice I wish I had heeded: bring sunscreen. Despite some shaded areas, much of the Faire is out in the open, and you will be exposed to the sun for several hours.
Overall, my visit to the New Jersey Renaissance Faire was an unforgettable experience. The lively atmosphere, engaging performances, and diverse activities made it a fantastic outing. I look forward to returning, maybe in the next couple of weeks, but definitely next year. It was, without a doubt, a delightful and memorable time.
