The Kentucky Highland Renaissance Festival takes place every summer in Eminence, Kentucky, and can be easily reached from Louisville and Cincinnati. The fictional 14th-century Scottish village of Briarwood is located on former farmland. It is the tribute to the times when Robert the Bruce ruled, specifically to the year 1320. Visitors are offered an array of hand-crafted goods and delicious foods at this time. Visit HooDoo's Pub, Makala's Inn, and The Twisted Thistle for excellent ales and wines.
Entertainment and Activities
Each week of the lobby is devoted to a certain theme, which is revealed through various events and performances. Opening Weekend & Royal Wedding (June 1-2): The festival kicks off with the celebration of the Royal Wedding of King Robert the Bruce & Queen Elizabeth de Burgh, welcoming the new queen.
Festival Time and Tickets
The Kentucky Highland Renaissance Festival runs on weekends from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, rain or shine. A one-day admission for adults (ages 13+) is $20, and for children (ages 6-12) is $15.00. Weekend and season passes are also avaible: adult weekend pass—$30.00, child weekend pass—$25, season pass—$85.
Entertaining groups include the Celtic Dance Troupe, The Faerie Guild, and the Gypsy/Rom Encampment. Stage shows include a combat jousting competition, dancing, reenactment, fire juggling, a circus, faerie tales, a mud show, and lots of live music. Kids can enjoy Renaissance-themed rides, ancient craft demonstrations, Human Chess, hair braiding, and other activities.
Pirate & Children’s Weekend (June 8-9)
Families can enjoy a weekend of pirate-themed activities, including the chance for children to receive a letter of mark and join the fleet admirals. Children under 12 receive half-price admission with a paid adult.
Viking Weekend (June 15-16)
Experience a thunderous weekend of drums, dancing, and Vikings as King Robert the Bruce makes a truce with the Ulfhedinn Vikings. On Father’s Day (June 16), fathers can enjoy half-price tickets.
Fools, Villains, Heroes & Steampunk (June 22-23)
Dress as your favorite hero, villain, or steampunk character and help catch the culprit behind the missing royal mug. Receive a discount on admission for dressing up.
Tournament Weekend (June 29-30)
Join in the excitement of the King's Ring Tournament and cheer on your favorite knight. The weekend also features a Traditional Archery Tournament open to the public.
Christmas in July & King Robert the Bruce’s 750th Birthday (July 6-7)
Celebrate Christmas in Renaissance style and honor King Robert the Bruce's 750th birthday with festive activities and early holiday shopping opportunities.
Romance, Wine & Chocolate (July 13-14)
Enjoy a love-filled weekend with wine, chocolate, and romantic celebrations in honor of King Robert the Bruce & Queen Elizabeth de Burgh's marriage.
Highland/Celtic Weekend (July 20-21)
The festival closes with a celebration of Highland and Celtic culture, featuring live music, dancing, and other activities as King Robert the Bruce and Queen Elizabeth de Burgh bid farewell to another successful festival season.
The Kentucky Highland Renaissance Festival 2024 offers an enchanting escape from the ordinary, inviting guests to embark on a magical journey through time and imagination. It's an experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression and create cherished memories
