Party Like It’s 1399: Trade the "Scroll" For a Stroll Through History

May 7, 2026 5 min read

The early 2000s sparked the beginning of my medieval love affair. From watching Merlin and Lord of the Rings, to reading fantasy books like The Wheel of Time and playing video games like The Sims Medieval. I was obsessed.

Sure, it might’ve been a bit romanticised in pop culture media, but what more could a cosplayer ask for? Flowing fabrics, embroidery and sculpted armour. Aesthetic castles, dragons and a dash of magic. Sign me up.

I’ll admit, it took me an embarrassing amount of time to discover that Medieval fairs were a thing and I made a lot of rookie errors attending my first one (uncomfortable shoes, no hat, awful).

But whether you’re a seasoned knight or a curious villager like I was, here’s why you should add Medieval fairs to your annual itinerary.

Why You Should Go to a Medieval Fair:

Forget streaming: Witness thunderous jousting, high-stakes sword fights, and grand parades that take “live action” to a whole new level.
- Pro-Tip: The grandstands fill up fast, so be sure to head there early with your party to secure a seat.
A day in the life: Wander through a living village where people live, cook, and craft exactly as they did centuries ago. Grab a seat and learn a medieval board game or just soak in the vibes.
Unique loot: From hand-forged jewellery and props to leather goods, the market stalls are packed with treasures you won't find in any regular shopping centre.
Test your skills: Don't just watch, get involved. Challenge your mates at the archery range or have a safe, supervised duel and learn to fight like a real knight.
Feast like a King: You can't survive the realm on an empty stomach. From delectable dishes and medieval-style mead, you can dine with live medieval music as your soundtrack.
Family fun: It’s a day the whole family will love. The kids can get face paint, ride ponies and meet mermaids and unicorns. They’ll forget all about their digital tablets in the giant interactive playground the fair provides. Plus, some are pet-friendly so you don’t have to feel guilty leaving them home.

Tips For Attending Medieval Fairs:

Dressing up

If you’re a fair first-timer, you might be asking: Do I have to dress up? While it isn't essential, being in character is half the fun. I can tell you from experience, you’ll want to be part of the party, not just watching from the sidelines.

This year for the Winterfest Medieval Fair, I’ll be getting into character. I’ll take any opportunity to dress as a Medieval queen.

Here’s my guide to help you choose your Medieval attire for the event.

For the Queens & Shield-Maidens: From elegant gowns to battle-ready tunics, choose a look that says "I run this castle." Some options for women include:

Nobility like princesses or queens,
Sorceresses and healers,
Tavern bar maids,
Knights or Vikings,
Elves and faeries (yes, fantasy characters are allowed).

For the Knights & Monks: Get the "Knight in Shining Armor" look without the heatstroke. Our lightweight costumes are perfect for a full day of feasting and fighting. Some fun options for men to wear:

Kings and princes,
Knights or blacksmiths,
Executioners or priests,
Jesters or minstrels,
Wizards or Vikings.

For the Little Squires: Let them live out their brave knight or princess tales. Our kids' range is durable enough for a full day of pony rides and adventure.

Essential Medieval Accessories

A true time-traveler knows the secret is in the details. Make sure to hide your watches, phones and other modern accessories if you have to bring them. And don’t forget about your hair, you don't want to be the only knight or noble lady with a modern haircut.

The Crowning Glory: Skip the hairspray and grab a period-accurate wig. It’s the easiest way to transform your look without spending hours in front of the mirror. Choose from long wavy locks and braids for nobility, or shaggy cuts with beards for knights and Vikings.

Armed and Ready: You can’t be a knight without a trusty sword or shield. While real steel might be authentic, it’s heavy and bulky and no one wants to carry that around all day. And don’t forget to complete your outfit with a helmet or crown. Opt for our range of lightweight accessories to finish off your look.

Pro-Tips for the Modern Peasant

To ensure your quest isn't cut short by the elements, keep these tips in mind:

Weather-proof your wardrobe: Most fairs are held in open fields with little cover. Don’t let a brutal sunburn or a sudden downpour ruin your quest. Opt for lightweight layers and pack the modern essentials like sunscreen or a raincoat. It might not be strictly "period accurate," but, after all, a comfortable knight is a happy knight.
Footwear is King: Leave the stilettos in the 21st century. Comfy, sturdy shoes are your best friend for this kind of event.
Go hands-free: Since pockets haven't been invented yet, you'll need a place for your keys and "magic glowing rectangles" (phones). Bring a backpack, or leather satchel to keep on-theme.
Hydrate like a Viking: Bring a reusable bottle. You’ll need plenty of water to keep your energy up for those mid-day duels.

If you follow my tips for attending a Medieval fair, you’re sure to have a great day out with your friends and families. See you there!