The Maryland Renaissance Festival invites families to a raucous, colorful world of knights, jesters and make-believe each autumn in Revel Grove, just outside Annapolis. This guide focuses on the October weekends (Oct. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19) and shares practical tips to make your visit magical for little ones, from where to catch interactive shows, to best snack stops and stroller‑friendly paths. We gathered info from the official festival site and trusted local event listings to bring you accurate and helpful advice.
Festival Dates & Hours
Open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 19; also open Monday, Labor Day. Focus for families: weekends in October: Oct. 4-5; Oct. 11-12; Oct. 18-19.
What’s Kid-Friendly in October – Guide by Activity
Harvest Hollow in Revel Grove
October weekends turn into “Harvest Hollow,” where fall décor lines Mary’s Dale Way and special, spook‑gentle shows greet young visitors. Perfect for toddler photos, kids can wander a magical, festive path without being scared.
Stage Shows & Street Acts
With 10 stages across the village and roaming characters, there’s always something to entertain. Look for “A Fool Named ‘O’ and La!La!”, the comedic Barely Balanced troupe, or family-friendly musical performances — great for short attention spans and letting little ones dance along.
The Joust Arena
See live jousting with knights in armor and horses galloping in under 3,000-seat arena action. Arrive early in the day to grab seats near the front so your kids can see and hear the excitement.
October Harvest Vibes
October weekends at the festival bring extra seasonal flair; think pumpkins, autumn décor and a cozy atmosphere throughout Revel Grove. The cooler weather makes it easier for kids to enjoy walking between shows, rides and food stands without overheating. Families can take advantage of photo-friendly spots decorated with fall colors, making it a perfect time for memorable snapshots. Pair that with shorter lines at some of the kid-friendly attractions later in the season and October becomes one of the best months to bring little ones.
Kid-Friendly Rides and Games
Scattered throughout Revel Grove are simple rides and games designed with younger kids in mind. From a gentle hand-powered swing to a pirate ship slide and archery stations, these are perfect breaks between stage shows. Most activities require a few dollars in cash, so it’s helpful to keep small bills on hand. Kids love the interactive element, whether it’s tossing an axe (with supervision) or trying out ring-toss games, and parents will appreciate the quick entertainment value.
Shopping for Little Treasures
The festival’s artisan booths aren’t just for adults. Many shops feature kid-friendly treasures like wooden swords, fairy wands, flower crowns and handmade toys. These make great souvenirs that kids can use to immerse themselves in the day’s fun. It’s also a chance to teach little ones about handmade crafts and meet artisans who create their goods right on site. Browsing together can be a calmer activity between the high-energy shows and jousting.
Food That Wins Over Kids
Turkey legs (messy fun!), mac and cheese on a stick, sweet pastries and other treats fuel little adventurers. Grab them early or at quieter areas to avoid long lines — and grab napkins!
Family Planning Tips
- Arrive early: The site is big — 10 a.m. entry gives you more freedom before crowds build.
- Plan rest stops: Pick a shady bench or quiet zone near the children’s area for snack breaks.
- Stroller-friendly paths: Main walkways are stroller-accessible.
- Show strategy: Pick 2-3 must-see acts ahead of time, like the joust or favorite performers, to help with pacing.
- Snack pack: Bring water and snacks to stay refreshed and hydrated between food stands.
- Photo ops: Snap pictures along Mary’s Dale Way and by the joust arena for easy memories.
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