Journeying to the New York Renaissance Faire is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their life, but ideally much more than that. One should really attend the Faire at every stage of their life, from childhood on up. Why? Because the experience you have as a child is completely different than the one you have as an adult. Furthermore, each time you attend this event, even if you make a point of watching all of the same acts you previously saw, the varied audience can change your experience of the show quite drastically. 

This year I attended the Renaissance Faire for the 6th time in my life and I enjoyed it just as much as the first time. I saw shows like The Stewart and Arnold Knife Throwing Show,  The Washing Well Wenches, The Royal Chess Match, And The Gaming Joust! These performances are all must-see shows, and since some of them happen more than once throughout the day, they can easily all be fit into your schedule!

The Washing Well Wenches

This show is a great way to let loose and have a laugh. The actors are extremely engaging and they even call up volunteers to win free roses for their dates. If you’re a guy, you can toss your hat in for that opportunity, but even if you are just there to watch, you will definitely leave with a smile on your face. Note that this show is geared towards adults and not children, though I did see a few children in the crowd. Also, don’t sit in the front row if you don’t like getting wet, because you will definitely be slightly drenched by the end of the show.

The Royal Chess Match

This is far from your average chess match! It is a game of human chess between pirates, knights, fairies, and all sorts of other characters. The queen oversees the game and the players battle it out for their side of the board and the closest surrounding crowd. This show is great fun for the whole family, as you attempt to cheer your team to victory. I would recommend getting there early if you want a good seat, otherwise, there are often open spots on the grass.

The Gaming Joust

The gaming joust is also a great event for the whole family! This is definitely one of the most popular events at the Renaissance Faire, so make sure you get there early, otherwise you may not be able to see. Another reason to get to this event on time, is that depending on where you sit, there is a knight that stands for your side. If you don’t get there for the beginning of the tournament, then you won’t know which knight you should be cheering for.

The Stewart and Arnold Knife Throwing Show

I have seen this show a number of times, and I always bring newcomers to see it. These two performers are hilarious and lovable at the same time. They will keep you entertained, and if you sit close to the stage you may even be chosen to face knives which are thrown directly in front of your body, hitting the wood all around you.

The Time Traveler Weekend

Anyone who owns a pair of Steampunk Goggles should attend this event which runs this coming weekend August 30th through September 1st. This event at the Renaissance Faire will be especially exciting this year, since it will host its 1st Annual Original Character Cosplay Competition!

So make sure you attend at least one of the days, and wear something that will truly make you stand out, like our Black and Bronze Steampunk Goggles with Blue Lenses!

From all of us Renaissance Faire Pirates — Break a LEG!