New Braunfels Renaissance Faire — Local services in New Braunfels

If you are a Renaissance festival purist, you might be disappointed, but if you just enjoy getting out and doing your thing with others while you eat, drink, laugh, and shop, definitely support this nascent Faire!

I learned that 2024 was only its second year, and unfortunately, the two weekends of weather was not cooperative with back-to-back rain and one weekend of temps in the 40s to boot. We arrived late on a Saturday, and although there were over four hours left to go that day, the crowds were thin, food vendors were short on supplies, and shops and activities were closing early. Even then, as a family of five (teenage and up), we all found something to enjoy and made it a memorable night. And of course, we found plenty of items to purchase just in time for Christmas... even if they were gifts for ourselves.

We didn't really do costumes for the occasion but love the activities and atmosphere of a good Renaissance festival. There has been a growing trend of anachronistic and fictional play, but I didn't think much of it until tonight. It may have been the timing, but we saw as much fantasy, viking, and furry fandom as Renaissance. The first costume set the stage when we saw Spider-Man wearing Deadpool's swords. But the crowd was there to have fun, and the vendors (merchandise, food, and fun) were engaging and had quality options to enjoy.

We did not see anything that would have alarmed us if the kids were young, but we also didn't see anything that would have held their interest for long. For us, one day was enough to take in what we wanted, but we will be back next year. Some good acts but nothing stood out. Favorite food: Texas Street Crepes without a doubt (impossibly delicious!). Favorite activities: Greenwood Archers and OGTomatoGuy. Favorite shopping: Bones and Things and Fearghal Blades. But favorite moment was photos with Saint...

You can tell that the folks in charge of putting the faire on really care about the experience of their patrons! The location is beautiful and the booths and attractions are set up thoughtfully. The artisans and food vendors are all delightful and hardworking. This would absolutely be a five star review if it were not for the company who was contracted to perform the jousting show. About 75% of the way through their performance, the crowd was asked to cheer for veterans and law enforcement. I did not think much of this as I assume officers were likely contracted to work security and help with safety for the faire. However, their monologue went on a bit longer and something along these lines was said: If you don’t commit crimes, then you won’t have to worry about getting tased in the neck. It struck my friends and I as awfully out of place given that ren fairies are typically safe, welcoming, and accepting places for marginalized groups (people who are much more likely to be victims of the use of excessive force whether “committing a crime” or not). Personally, I hope the jousting company is not booked again for next year as endorsing police violence felt really...

The New Braunfels Renaissance Faire really nails the Renaissance vibe. The performers are fantastic—funny, talented, and totally engaging. There’s a lot of energy and humor throughout the event, which makes it so much fun to watch. The food is also amazing, with plenty of tasty options to choose from. The music is great, too—it adds a lot to the atmosphere.

One of the best parts is the vendors. They have a wonderful mix of unique, whimsical items that you won’t find just anywhere. Plus, the whole event has a really welcoming feel. You can easily spend the whole day there, with plenty to do and see. It’s also nice that it supports local nonprofits, which gives the event an extra layer of meaning. Definitely worth...