So – just what is a Renaissance Festival?
The word Renaissance means rebirth, a fitting theme for our event, where history, fantasy, and imagination come alive. Our faire welcomes all genres and cosplay worlds, embracing diversity and creativity in every form. Whether you arrive in full costume or simply as yourself, we invite you to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere we’ve created. This is a place where everyone—whether part of your birth family or your chosen family—can feel safe and included. Prepare to laugh, eat, drink, and revel in the merriment. Even if you’re not a costume enthusiast, there’s plenty to enjoy. Witness the thrill of a live Joust with Knights in full armour, catch a Comedy show, or mingle with Pirates, Fairies, and Vikings. Experience the grandeur of the Queen’s Court or unwind in a tavern filled with music that plays all day long. The Artisan Craft Market will leave you astounded, featuring more than 100 different vendors offering unique, handcrafted goods. This Renaissance faire is about fun for everyone, offering something magical for every visitor. Join us in celebrating creativity, history, and the spirit of community!
About Us
The Oxford Renaissance Festival has been in operation since 2013. We began our adventure at the Woodstock Fairgrounds, and moved to the Dorchester Fairgrounds in 2016. Ontario has been host to a series of similarly themed festivals for many years, and we are proud to carry on the tradition of celebrating history, live music & entertainment, and artistic endeavors. The Oxford Renaissance Festival is pleased to partner with many fine organizations in order to provide opportunities and culture to the surrounding regions.
Our “Big Event” is the Festival Days a weekend of fun held in September – 2 full days of entertainment, open to the public. Most people plan to stay for several hours, enjoying a meal in our pub, and filling their day with all live opportunities to play along or watch the action. Live music, demonstrations, stage acts, and jousting will give you plenty of renaissance to experience! There are games to play, a storyline to follow, and you could even meet the Queen! On Saturday night the pub stays open after the gates close – and you can party with us with live music all night and our special selection of Renaissance styled beverages, including cider, beer, Mead, and more!
School Trip – The Oxford Renaissance Festival is also open for field trips – The Friday (and Thursday if we get booked up!) before the festival is open for registered school groups to attend an Education Day where groups rotate through learning pods and find out more about Renaissance England. We tend to teach about the ancient sports of falconry, jousting, armed combat; trades such as blacksmithing, and Renaissance fashion, and manners. The day is designed for Grades 1 – 8, with discounts for schools that register early and bring more than one class. Find out more on the “Education Days” Tab.
Throughout the year, you may find Special Events put on by the Oxford Renaissance Festival – In the past we have hosted feasts, a masquerade ball, and movie nights. Follow us on Facebook to stay on top of all the best events!