Michiana Renaissance Festival is an annual medieval-themed event held at St. Joseph County Fairgrounds in South Bend, Indiana, on the last weekend in August. Every day of the two-day festival is filled with fun activities for the whole family.
Activities and Events
Michiana Renaissance Festival is focused on the English Renaissance period, from 1500s to the 1600s, particularly, on Queen Elizabeth's 1st reign. Travel back to a bygone era and enjoy jousting, live shows, street performers, kids' quest games, and live music. The action takes place at four re-enactment areas: Medieval/Renaissance, the Golden Age of Piracy, the Time of the Vikings, and Fairytale Storyland.
Each area features educational exhibits, performances, and artisans. Visitors can shop for unique gifts like handmade jewelry, ceramics, cups, bowls, plates, mugs, pitchers, sculptures, tiaras, crowns, leather goods, soaps, charms, handmade scented candles, and much more.
Tickets and Location
The festival runs from 10 am to 6 pm, rain or sunshine. Adult admission (ages 13+) is $12, military admission is free, senior—$10, children (ages 6-12)—$7, toddlers (age 5 and under) have free entrance. A Michiana Renaissance Festival ticket provides admission for one day only. Admission includes all shows, acts, and events. Annual Michiana Renaissance Festival, located on St.Joe County 4H Fairgrounds, South Bend, Indiana.
Festival do's and don'ts
Guests can't visit the festival grounds with pets. The festival permits only service animals that are ADA-approved and trained to assist individuals with disabilities. Visitors can use credit and debit cards at the entrance and numerous vendor stalls during the festival. Nonetheless, organizers suggest bringing cash for vendors who may only accept cash payments. Also, smoking is prohibited in public areas, parks, etc. in St. Joseph County.
Michiana Renaissance Festival highlights include the Royal Joust, where the Heroic Knights of Old show off their skills. Swords of Valour is another popular show, blending swordplay with comedy. The Wonder Elixir of Life is a medieval medicine show, while Kingdom of Dragon Fire focuses on educational demonstrations of steel fighting.
