Knights on horseback, soaring birds of prey, and a village full of costumed characters bring the Carolina Renaissance Festival to life in Huntersville. Explore more than 140 arts and crafts shops, watch live music and comedy across 16 stages, meet the mermaids, and enjoy festival food, games, and rides.

2026 season: Saturdays and Sundays, October 3–November 22. Gates open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. A pre-opening gate show begins at 9:05 a.m. This calendar entry represents one festival day.

Location: 16445 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville, NC 28078. Parking is free.

Admission: $37.99 for ages 13 and older; $23.99 for ages 5–12. Prices include the service fee; sales tax is additional. Children 4 and younger enter free. Tickets are date-specific and subject to availability. Food, purchases, games, rides, and optional VIP joust seating cost extra.

Costumes are welcome. Check the official website for themed weekends, driving instructions, ticket availability, and weather updates.

Find tickets & more information here →

Festival photo: Charlotte Stories archives.