The Woodshed Event Center — Local services in Topeka

As a local marketer, it’s essential to offer honest and constructive feedback, even when it’s difficult. The Topeka Renaissance Festival, which recently opened its doors, has certainly made an attempt to carve out a niche in the community. However, several aspects of its operations, particularly the lack of clear business licensing and its disjointed marketing strategy, leave much to be desired.

One of the red flags is the absence of transparency around the festival’s business licensing. There’s no clear indication that it’s properly registered or operating with the necessary permits, which raises concerns for both attendees and potential vendors. For a business like this—especially one hosting public events—it’s critical to ensure everything is in place legally, as this helps build trust and credibility.

In terms of marketing, the festival’s promotional efforts lack coherence. The messaging feels scattered, and it’s hard to tell who the event is actually targeting. The festival doesn’t seem to have nailed down a specific brand identity or a clear marketing plan, which is essential for generating consistent interest. A stronger online presence would go a long way, especially for an event that relies heavily on social media engagement to drive attendance.

Looking back, the Yule Ball last year highlighted some of the same issues. While it was intended to be a festive and fun event, it felt more like an impromptu gathering than a carefully planned affair. The lack of organization and promotional push made it feel unpolished. It was a nice idea, but without proper execution or clear communication, it fell flat for many attendees.

All that said, the idea behind the Topeka Renaissance Festival has potential. With more effort toward solidifying its business structure, streamlining its marketing efforts, and ensuring a better overall guest experience, it could certainly grow into something worthwhile. But for now, it still feels like it’s in the trial-and-error phase, rather than a fully developed,...

Kind of BS they sold tickets online at $20. But couldn't direct me to where online & said to just buy at the door. Only tickets were $50 ea at the door! $20 online. $50 at the door. Shady way of making $. I sure won't be doing any business with them. Don't appear to be very trust worthy.

As a customer, we don't have esp. we contact the place where the event held. Instead of directing us to or giving us info, you say "don't know prices or anything about how\where to get tickets (for the event You're hosting). But we can just buy tickets at the door". You could've mentioned they were MORE than double! Or gave me a # or site where I could order tickets. Instead of us paying $60 more than we needed. I'm sorry, not to sound rude but, This is your facility. Take some accountability for your business.

I'd think you might care to know important info about the things You're hosting. it all reflects on...

Very spacious and a huge event area. The staff was readily available and accommodating, coming through to take out the trash and maintain the area. Unfortunately, I found it dated. The wood dance floor seemed to absorb every spill (Which was inevitable) The stage had a carpet over it that was very old and tattered. The other unfortunate part was one entrance to two event areas. People from another event kept coming into our event which felt disruptive and somewhat disrespectful though there seemed to be no bad intentions...but two groups of people...