Maryland Renaissance Festival
Is dressing up and being transported to another era right up your alley? Then the Maryland Renaissance Festival is a must-visit on your next RV trip.
Event information
The Maryland Renaissance Festival, often referred to as Rennfest, is a themed fair that takes place in Crownsville, Maryland every year. It is the second-largest event of its kind in the country. The venue covers over 27 acres and is converted into a fictional village called Revel Grove for the fair. Visitors are instantly transported to the 16th century when they enter the grounds.
The fair initially had an Elizabethan era theme but is now based on the court of Henry VIII of England. The storyline changes from year to year to keep the event interesting for regular patrons as well as first time fair attendees. It is always inspired by the important events that marked the reign of Henry VIII and the historical figures who played a role in his life.
Acclaimed actors take on the roles of Henry VIII and the members of his court. Visitors can enjoy the stage shows put on by them throughout the scheduled events. These take place in multiple theaters as well as smaller stages at various points.
In addition to the performances, the venue will be set up with over 100 shops selling handmade goods. Visitors can enjoy carnival rides and jousting matches that take place in a large tournament field. There will also be plenty of delicious food to explore.
Tickets
You can purchase your passes online or at the festival gate. Tickets cost around $20 for adults and $10 for children between the ages of 7 to 15. Season passes are also available, which are priced at about $160. Peak season rates may apply during specific periods.
Discounted passes are available for senior citizens, active military personnel and groups of 20 or more. Tickets are not required for children under the age of 7, as long as a pass-holding adult accompanies them. For more information and updates, check out the festival website.
Explore Maryland Renaissance Festival RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Crownsville is about eight miles away from the nearest city of Annapolis. The festival venue is right on Crownsville Road but uses an Annapolis address: 1821 Crownsville Road, Annapolis, MD 21401. You can find it easily using a GPS app on your phone or by following the detailed directions provided on the website. Check if any road alerts have been issued in Anne Arundel County or the surrounding areas before you pick your route.
Parking areas
Plenty of free parking spots will be available at the Rennfest fairgrounds. There will be signs to guide you to the parking area, and festival staff will be on hand to help as well. Patrons with disabilities will have access to ADA parking spots on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Public Transportation
There are no public buses or trains that will get you directly to the venue. Campgrounds and businesses in the area often organize paid shuttles to the site on the days of the event. It's a good idea to park your rig at your campsite and use this service to travel to the fair if it fits your timeframe.
Where to stay
Onsite
Onsite camping is not available at Rennfest. Fortunately, there are several excellent options in the nearby towns of Millersville, Laurel, and Annapolis.
Nearby
You'll find a couple of good RV parks and campgrounds within a 25-mile radius of the Maryland Renaissance Festival. The facilities and amenities can vary quite a bit from one campsite to the next. So check what's available before booking a spot. It's also a good idea to pick up supplies and fill up your tanks in Annapolis before heading to your site for the night.
Getting around
Bikes, scooters, ATVs, golf carts, skateboards or other personal motorized vehicles will not be permitted into the venue. Patrons with mobility disabilities are advised to use sport style or motorized wheelchairs, rather than manual ones if possible. This is because the terrain is natural in most parts of the venue, and the ground is covered by soil and mulch.
What to pack
Clothing
Costumes in all shapes and sizes are encouraged, as long as they are in keeping with the theme of the event. Keep in mind that the fair is family-friendly and dress accordingly. Costumes can also be rented at a booth near the entrance. These must be returned at the end of each day.
Gear
Pack a small bag or backpack with essentials like sunscreen, a hat, a portable charger, and sunglasses. If you plan on watching the stage shows, consider taking a lightweight blanket or a low backed chair for some form of seating. If you're traveling with kids, wet wipes and hand sanitizer can also come in handy.
Health & Safety
Make sure the first aid kit in your RV is well stocked and up to date before starting on your trip. This way, you can be self-sufficient and prepared for any emergencies. The fairgrounds will be crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings and make sure children are supervised at all times.
Where to eat
Cooking
No RV camping experience is complete without cooking up your favorite meals and snacks by the fire. Most campgrounds and RV parks in the area allow campfires. However, it's a good idea to check up on the RV camping rules by talking to the manager before lighting up the kindling. Firewood and other basic supplies may be available at your campground, but you may need to drive a bit further away for other items.
Restaurants
Be sure to check out some of the quaint restaurants and cafes in the area of Crownsville and beyond its borders. There is plenty of delicious Cajun, Creole, Japanese, Italian, and Indian food to try. If you're short on time, grab a quick slice at one of the many pizza joints. You could always head to nearby Annapolis for more dining options within a 30-minute drive.
Vendors
Food and beverage vendors will be set up throughout the grounds. Don't miss out on fair favorites like turkey legs, corn dogs, corn on the cob, and chocolate-covered bananas. There will also be some yummy beverages like root beer floats and lemon slushies for guests to enjoy at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. Alcoholic drinks will be on sale as well.
Safety
Security
Bag checks will be conducted at the entrances. Some toy weapon styles have been allowed in years past. Be sure to check regulations related to any weapons that will go along with your costume; these may be allowed in only after they are cleared by security staff. Weapons purchased on the grounds must be kept in their packaging until you exit the grounds. Smoking is not allowed, except in designated areas within the grounds.
Weather
While the weather is typically pleasant, rain may grace the Maryland Renaissance Festival at some point during the course of the fall. It's a good idea to check the event's social media pages for weather updates as you plan your departure.
Medical
There will be a first aid center on site staffed with trained EMTs. Here you can find medical information as well as accessibility support. If you need help, head to the first aid center or approach the closest staff member. Bathroom facilities with nursing stations are available throughout the venue. Pharmacy options may be navigated with several options in Annapolis.
