With the warm Spring air rolling in and the sun shining bright, it is time to check out some of the Renaissance Fairs in your area. These delightful fairs tend to only happen once a year, so make sure you enjoy your step back in time before it is too late. Many people will often avoid the Renaissance Fair because they believe it can be too pricey for the frugal household. However, the Renaissance Fair can be a great way for families to enjoy some time together as they take in some incredibly shows and food. There are numerous ways to experience this special fair that won’t leave you stressing over the money. In fact, with these ten tips you’ll find your family may want to frequent the fair while it’s still in town. So step away from the budget and let the entertainment of yesteryear entertain your family for a few hours.
1. Advance Tickets
The Renaissance Fair typically doesn’t cost a lost for an entrance fee, but you will certainly save even more money if you purchase in advance. Most Renaissance Fairs will actually have deals with your local banks and grocery stores, so you won’t even have to travel far to get a deal. When you purchase your tickets at these locations you tend to get a greater discount than purchasing anywhere else. This is largely because of the deals made between the fair and business establishment, but also to help draw people from other areas in to to see the amazing stuff. You should also be able to buy your tickets online or at the fairgrounds before the big day, but this will only provide you with a small discount opposed to buying at the set locations. A lot of the time buying ahead of time can even help you score free tickets for family and friends. You may also get free entrance for children that usually require a small entrance fee. So, shop ahead of time instead of waiting to the day of the fair to get your tickets.
2. Coupons
Renaissance Fairs are usually very good about putting out coupons before they begin selling tickets. You can find coupons for your local events in the paper as well as online so put your coupon shopping skills to good work. However, if you run out of coupons you may talk to local stores to see if there is anything you can turn in to help further your discount at the fair. For instance, many fairs will allow you trade in certain aluminum cans in order to get the price final price of your tickets knocked down. Some grocery and department stores will also give you a printed coupon when you buy certain items from their store. Before you go shopping call ahead or ask when you get there to see if there is any items you can buy to get a discount. Usually the items end up being on the average shopping list anyway, so you won’t have to worry about buying things you don’t need. Sometimes you may even get a free ticket for just shopping in certain areas, so make sure you’re aware of your best options before you buy the tickets.
3. Pack Snacks
Although bringing snacks with you might be frowned upon in many fairs, theme parks and other entertainment areas, bringing them into a Renaissance Fair usually doesn’t matter. Of course, there is always plenty of delicious foods on the menu at the fairs and you may want to set some money aside to share at least one item on the list. However, it will save you a whole lot of money if you just pack a few things to get your family through the day without having to eat out. One of the best items to bring is trail mix or simple fruits as they will help provide your family with plenty of energy without leaving you bogged down during your walk around the fair. Water is one of the most important things you can pack with you though. Typically water at any establishment cost a ridiculous amount and there is usually no place for a water fountain at the fair, so bringing enough water is absolutely crucial. If you can, pack some canteens with the kids so they can feel like they’re a part of the action too. You may want to avoid sodas, especially in cans, as they may weigh down your day bag and force discomfort while you’re trying to have some fun.
4. Dress Up
You might not think that dressing up could save you money at a fair but when it comes to the Renaissance Fair, the cooler you look the better. When it comes to dressing up for a Renaissance Fair you can actually go very far with very little money, especially when it comes to dressing up the kids. Children can easily slip into an old Halloween costume to fit in perfectly at the fair. Costumes like knights, fairies, jesters, archers and princesses are simple to find at a discount this time of year and will make your kids feel amazing as they pass other people in costumes similar. Adults are a little trickier, but with a simple pattern you can make a male or female costume with cheap fabrics. When you choose to dress up at a fair you may be able to get free goodies that will keep the family feeling great as they pass through the stalls. You may also get discounts on your tickets and other merchandise you choose to purchase while at the fair. This will really help out when it comes to souvenirs and other food. Of course, you may also win something cool if you happen to be picked as best costume, so make sure to put your heart into the way you look.
5. Bring Cash
One of the best things you can do while you’re at a Renaissance Fair is to leave the debit and credit cards at home. Instead, pull out a certain amount of cash to get you through the day. Make sure you budget carefully before you decide on the amount you can spend at the fair. By bringing along cash you’ll avoid quite a few of the transaction fees you may be subject to when you purchase from an independent vendor. You also won’t be tempted to pull anymore money while you’re at the fair so you can enjoy the day without having to worry about spending too much. When you carry around cash you’ll tend to be a bit more careful with the money you have, as it is clear and visible to you. This will help you make wiser purchases and you may even end up with money left over at the end of the day. This can be your biggest asset when you get to the fair as there will be so many amazing items that it might be hard to say no to some of the vendors.
6. Unlimited Bracelet
It may not be an option at many fairs, but if you can purchase an Unlimited Bracelet when you go to the Renaissance Fair. This is a great way to save money one fairs that don’t allow you to bring in food to the fairgrounds. The bracelet is usually included in the price of an extended ticket and can help you get the most out of the fair. These bracelets are particularly important at fairs that actually have rides. With the bracelets on your family should be able to get a set number of free meals, snacks and drinks while also being able to ride as many rides as you can fit into your day. Anyone that plans on spending the full day at the park will benefit greatly from the convenience of this bracelet, so make sure to call ahead and see your best value before you purchase your admission tickets.
7. Plan Accordingly
One way to get your money’s worth at the Renaissance Fair is to make sure to plan accordingly. A lot of fairs will actually post their schedules online so you can look and see exactly what you can see each day at the fair. This can help you plan on which day you’ll get a bit more for your money. The schedule will also help you plan out how to spend your day. Instead of wandering around aimlessly through the merchant areas you will know exactly when to check out a show you’re looking for. This can definitely be a huge benefit on days that are particularly hot as you will know exactly when and where you can sit down and cool down. This will also allow you to find time for meals more efficiently so everyone doesn’t feel fatigued between meals.
8. Avoid Gift Shops
It might be a bit of a challenge, but avoid gift areas can really help you save the most money when you’re visiting the Renaissance Fair. During the fair you’ll see plenty of merchant ares, which are amazing to look at it, but they often lead you feeling like you need to buy some of the art in the area. One way to help avoid temptation is to stay away from the merchant area entirely. Instead, stay in the showroom or check out some of the rides to keep you occupied. If you do manage to wander into the merchant area then you can always ask for a card from vendors you’re interested in. This will help you not spend any money during your trip out and will allow you to find the item you liked if you’re still interested in it a few weeks after the fair.
9. Show Up Early
When it comes to getting the most for your morning you should always show up to a Renaissance Fair as early as possible. Usually the crowds aren’t as heavy when you go early so you can see everything you want without having to surf through crowds. You can also enjoy rides, food and shows without having to wait as long in tedious lines. Another great reason for heading out early is it allows you to fully enjoy yourself without actually having to stay in the heat all day long. This can be a huge money savor when it comes to buying refreshments for the family. With the quiet morning fair grounds you’ll be able to see everything you could possibly want before the family begins to get tired and cranky, which will allow you to get a whole lot for your money. You may have to hang around for a show or two after you’ve seen everything, but you’ll still feel energized and will have more positive memories of the event.
10. Go to the Shows
When it comes to the Renaissance Fair nothing will beat the shows. Usually shows are included in the price of admission which means you’ll be able to sit down and relax during your time at the fair. Typically fairs will have a few different shows that repeat throughout the day. This gives you time to see them all while still catching some time in the areas of the fair. The more time you spend at the shows the less time you’ll spend wanting to spend money on food or other merchandise though. The shows will also give you more vivid memories of the fair that can be shared with other people you care about.
The Renaissance Fair tends to be a once a year occasion so make sure you find some time to enjoy your visit. With these simple tips you should be able to find a mini vacation in the fair that doesn’t leave you calculating the expenses throughout the day. Finally, you’ll be able to find yourself in the past while enjoying the present with your family.
