1-Tank Adventure: The New York Renaissance Faire

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — There is only one annual event in the Hudson Valley that offers visitors the chance to time travel.

The iconic New York Renaissance Faire will once again open for the 2021 season after its voluntary shuttering last year due to the pandemic. The festival will open August 21, for seven weekends before closing for the season on October 3.

Costumes are optional, but it might add to the fun to dress in Elizabethan garb. Likewise, face covering requirements will be determined by the latest recommendations from health officials.

"Our team is working hard to literally set the stages for world-class, immersive entertainment that will put a smile on your face as we recognize that what we do best is needed now more than ever," owner Linda McFeters said. "We are working closely with the local health department and the most current CDC recommendations to ensure the safety of our guests, vendors, volunteers and staff."

The pandemic has changed childhood, but not nearly as much as the bubonic plague did. (Deborah Grosmark | New York Renaissance Faire)

All of the traditional events and activities are back, including the village transported from 1574, complete with traditional artisans and merchants (plus a few vendors with decidedly modern wares). Jousting tournaments and period-perfect music performances, archery, acrobats and LARP-ing will culminate with a visit from the queen who the Elizabethan era is named after.

Demonstrations by potters, blacksmiths and other working artisans will be on offer throughout each day. This year, artist Mark Haller will demonstrate and teach glassblowing to attendees.

For some of us, the faire food is half the fun. Traditional favorites, including gigantic turkey legs, and steak-on-a-stake will be available. Anachronistic fare, including Impossible Burgers and gluten-free treats from the Village Bakery, will also be sold. Perhaps more importantly, craft brews, ciders and cocktails may also be purchased by those who were born before today's date in 1553 (or can prove they are of legal age).

Are you brave enough to try your hand at archery? (Deborah Grosmark | New York Renaissance Faire)

IF YOU GO:

DATES: The New York Renaissance Faire takes place Aug. 21 through October 3 on Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day Monday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

WHERE: 600 Route 17A in Tuxedo (11 miles south of The Woodbury Common Premium Outlets)

TICKETS: Adult tickets are $29.95 for ages 13 and older. Children's tickets are $13.00 for ages 5 to 12. Children under 5 years of age, always are free. Senior citizens and military tickets are $25.95.

DISCOUNTS: Advance purchase discounts are available online. Group rates are available for 15 guests or more by calling the ticket office at 845-351-5171.

PARKING: General parking is free. Preferred parking can be purchased for $20.0o.

PUBLIC TRANSIT: On event days, direct, round-trip bus transportation is available from the Port Authority in Manhattan.

SEE ALSO:

• 1-Tank Adventure: Bear Mountain State Park
• 1-Tank Adventure: St. Paul's Church National Historic Site
• 1-Tank Adventure: Stone Barns Center For Food And Agriculture
• 1-Tank Adventure: Building Memories At Legoland
• 1-Tank Adventure: Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa
• 1-Tank Adventure: 'See For Miles' At This Hudson Valley Overlook
• 1-Tank Adventure: Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome