There’s nothing quite like summer in Washington state. We have breathtaking national parks to explore, lakes to swim in, trails to conquer, and, of course, the Washington Renaissance Faire. This popular festival includes five full weekends of complete merriment. You’ll immerse yourself in the Midsummer Renaissance’s Village of Merriwick, surrounded by costumes, food, games, activities, shows, and much more.
Each year, the Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire takes place in the town of Snohomish, where guests are encouraged to don their best knight, joker, and fairy costumes to partake in the 16th-century Elizabethan affair. In our opinion, there’s no better way to spend a summer night in the Evergreen State! Ready to learn more about this year’s festival? Read on to get the details of this Medieval festival in Washington.
Why Locals Love This Washington Renaissance Festival
The Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire will take place on weekends from July 18 to August 16, 2026. But this summer festival has attracted locals and tourists since 2010, when the first event took place at Maris Farms in Buckley, Washington. Now, this five-week festival takes place along Sky Meadows Lane in Snohomish, but it feels like you’ve been whisked away to another time and place.
Renaissance Faire fans love this festival because it’s so immersive. The decor, performance stages, staff dressed in authentic 16th-century garb, and Ye Olde English being shouted left and right make you feel as though you’ve entered the Village of Merriwick. Plus, each weekend boasts a unique theme with characters—like knights and fairies—to match.
Of all the unique things to do in Washington, this event is certainly the most exciting… and family-friendly. There’s plenty to do for people of all ages, from dancing to face painting to outdoor games and much more. You’ll laugh, cry, dance, and cheer; the entertainment truly enhances your overall experience.
What Visitors Can Expect at This Exciting Summer Festival
Once you arrive at this magical festival, we highly recommend stopping by the performances first. The Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire is well-known for its seven stages featuring performers like Jacques ze Whipper, a famous circus performer, and Fuegoscuro, stunning fire dancers who light up the night. A full list of performers will be posted at the festival, but for an early sneak peek, check out the fair’s Facebook page.
You can’t miss the jousts, either. Knights on horses will fight for Queen Elizabeth I’s honor, and encourage bystanders to cheer them on! As you stroll across the vast festival grounds, you’ll also stumble upon pub crawls, tea parties with Princess Cecelia, knightings, and wandering bards and mistrels mingling with guests…