LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. — We may be living in the modern era, but take a step through the castle gates in Rapho Township and you’ll find yourself in the vibrantly colorful year of 1589.
Assistant Artistic Director, Jonathan “Sir William” Handley, says it takes around 200 people to make the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire as engaging as it is.
“We had pre-sales of over 6,000 people and I would not be surprised if those numbers have increased since the gates opened,” Handley said.
For families, it’s an opportunity to make memories.
“We came two years ago, and we’ve been liking these dusk hours so that’s a quick way to come in and spend less,” said Chelsey Smith.
Chelsey was accompanied by her husband and three children and is expected to return to the fairgrounds sometime this season.
With 40 acres to explore and more than 100 merchants to choose from, there’s no shortage of fortune to be found.
“I do have a couple of swords in my basement that I have gotten from here and have them on display, so I definitely say the swords,” said Ben Hartman from Lebanon County
But the faire isn’t just about what you can trade your coin for.
There are lessons in glassmaking, sword fighting, and archery to name a few.
“All these shops, there’s so much different stuff you can get and your whole day just has no downtime,” Hartman said.
Since no Renaissance faire would be complete without action, jousting draws crowds in the hundreds and is a staple for faire goers.
“To see people walk through the gates and their eyes light up and see the queen for the first time, or to watch a show and laugh-out-loud and sort of forget what happens outside of the gate and just enjoy what is happening around them,” Handley said.
The faire runs until October 27; adult tickets are $33.95 from now until September 15 and will rise to $37.95 starting September 21. Children’s tickets are $17.95 from now until September 15 and will raise to $19.95 starting September 21.
Sunset admission will offer lower prices after 4 p.m.