The site of the Renaissance Faire at Sleepy Hollow spans across 15 acres and features several stages for live entertainment, multiple living history encampments, specialty shops with gifts and souvenirs, about a dozen food and drink vendors, and shady places to rest and enjoy a quick snack before continuing on with adventures.
The Faire offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. As they step through the gates gates for the first time, they are instantly transported to a time when kings and queens ruled, knights engaged in epic jousts, and the arts flourished in every corner!
There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the Renaissance Faire at Sleepy Hollow, with countless activities to explore. In the vibrant Renaissance village, lively street characters, talented stage performers, and friendly vendors are eager to interact with visitors, who are welcome to play along and become part of the world. Visitors can meet the Royal Court, interact with mystical fey creatures, watch skilled artisans at work, participate in exciting games of skill and chance, and enjoy captivating performances of jugglers, jesters, minstrels, and belly dancers.
While costumes are always welcome, they are certainly not required. Some visitors choose to come as themselves, modern-day time travelers to the middle ages, while others fully embrace the atmosphere and come in costume. Everyone as welcome in any attire from any time period, as long as they follow the Faire’s policies regarding weaponry.
Like many other Renaissance festivals across the United States, the Renaissance Faire at Sleepy Hollow features themed weekends. The unique theme of each weekend is reflected in the costumes worn by some of performers and vendors, as well as in the content of select shows. Visitors are encouraged to dress up to embrace these themed weekends when possible. In 2024, the themes were Celtic Ceilidh; Dungeons, Dragons, Wizards, and Fae; and Pirates, (steam)Punks, and Pets.
The Faire also offers multiple shopping opportunities. Visitors can explore over 50 specialty shops offering a wide variety of unique goods made by local artisans. There are clothes and accessories, leather goods, weaponry, jewelry, candles, children’s items, pottery, chocolates, and more. In addition to selling ready-made goods, many artisans take custom orders.
Food vendors offer a wide selection of foods and drinks, ranging from turkey legs to vegetarian and gluten-free options. Two taverns serve beers, meads, wines, and other drinks to quench the thirst and boost the mood.
In addition to the Ren Faire in the fall, the team of the Renaissance Faire at Sleepy Hollow hosts a smaller Spring Fling over two weekends in May. The Ren Faire and Spring Fling feature many of the same performers, shows and vendors, but some of the events are more limited to spring or fall.
Photo: sleepyhollowrenfaire.com
