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A First-Timer's Guide to Visiting Colorado Renaissance Festival

By Sarah Hauge, Publisher, Macaroni Kid, Englewood, Greenwood Village, Centennial July 24, 2018

Tonight as I was putting my five-year-old daughter to bed, I found a handwritten note on her floor:

"Unicorn's are reel decus I sew them at the renusosfestibl."

Translation: Unicorns are real because I saw them at the Renaissance Festival.

The Colorado Renaissance Festival is a place of magic, and reflecting on it through her eyes only amplifies that truth. From the moment you walk through the castle gates, you will find yourself in a world so far removed from everyday life that you'll want to relish in the costumes, the performances, the food, the adventure, and yes, even a unicorn.

Tips and tricks for navigating the festival with kids:

  • Plan to visit when you can stay all day. The festival is HUGE and you'll want to see it ALL. Sadly, we didn't see everything on our first visit, but we look forward to making our trek to the festival an annual family tradition.

  • Bring the WHOLE family. There are attractions suitable for all ages and stages. Our family enjoyed seeing the animals in the children's realm, navigating the maze (it was tough!), riding Divinci's Flying Machine Ride, and watching The London Broil show.

  • BEFORE YOU GO, check out the Colorado Renaissance Festival website to download a Program and Festival Map. With 10 performance venues and more than 25 unique shows, you may want to draft up an itinerary so you don't miss anything from your wish list. Rather wing it? You can pick up the program and map at the festival.

  • Drive the scenic route (105 - South Perry Park Rd) to avoid heavy traffic on I-25. Don't be intimidated by the number of cars in the parking lot ~ The grounds can accommodate crowds nicely and we never had to wait in any lines.

  • Wear closed-toed shoes. Though unpaved, the terrain can be navigated in strollers and wheelchairs.

  • Don't be afraid to dress up. You don't even have to fit the Renaissance theme. We saw guests as pirates, superheroes, princesses, Star Wars characters, and more! Don't have any costumes? Rejoice! The festival has wonderful vendors with attire and accessories. You can also enjoy henna art, face painting, and hair-braiding while you're there.

  • Bring cash for tips should you be impressed with the entertainment.

  • Bring your appetite. With so many yummy things to choose from, you'll be glad you came with an empty stomach. From what I saw, most food and drink items were under $5 which makes for an affordable meal out for a family.

The Colorado Renaissance Festival is a place where reality and fantasy become one. With only 8 weekends of magic, put it on your calendar TODAY! Enjoy this Colorado classic and make your own family memories.

Colorado Renaissance Festival
650 W Perry Park Avenue,
Larkspur, CO 80118
(303) 688-6010
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