The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at TAMU chapter.
Just off the exit you would take to go to Austin instead of San Antonio if coming from College Station, lies the Sherwood Forest Faire (SWFF). Despite the name, is a Renaissance Festival that occurs every spring outside Austin. It’s smaller than the Texas Renaissance Festival that happens every fall. I got the chance to go to SWFF this past weekend on the very last day, and here are a couple things you should know before you head out to it next year.
- Look out for deals for tickets
Tickets are not that expensive for SWFF (~$26), but a deal is a deal and you should look out for them. I got a 2-pack of tickets at Costco for $39.99, saving a decent amount of money. It’s great for if you’re going with a friend, a gift, or an excuse to go twice! - Bring a decent amount of money and cash is useful
As typical of any Renaissance Festival, there are shops and food everywhere at the fair. You’re going to be tempted to buy things and try out as much food as possible so be prepared. Also sometimes your card might get declined because of the random location or the internet might be bad. This is why you should bring cash just in case. There are ATMs on site but sometimes they don’t work and they’ll have fees. - Dress up while staying comfortable
Dressing up in Renaissance garb enhances the experience at a Renaissance Festival. I don’t go hard on it but I love seeing the outfits of those who do. Instead, I try and dress comfortably while getting as close as possible to proper garb because of the amount of walking you have to do. The fair is big, and you don’t want to be hindered by your outfit. - Learn how to speak with the times
People will speak as if they’re from the ye old times, so don’t try to rebuff it. Instead, go along with it. I try my hardest but fail miserably. If you’re struggling, just listen to others and when you hear someone say “Huzzah”, you say it too. - Bring a tote bag
With the shopping and food, you will accumulate things. That’s why you should bring a separate bag, especially since many vendors won’t have bags for you. - Most importantly, do as much as you can!
A Renaissance Festival is a unique experience where there’s so much to do. Immerse yourself in the experience and walk away with a plethora of new experiences and perspectives. Eat a turkey leg, go to a viking comedy show, eat cheesecake on a stick, repeat! Most importantly, have fun and go support the fair if you can.
Information about the fair can be found at https://www.sherwoodforestfaire.com/.