Joust Another Day in Ohio
Every fall, just a short drive from Cincinnati, the gates of a 16th-century English village swing open and welcome thousands of visitors into a world of magic, merriment, and medieval spectacle. The Ohio Renaissance Festival, running weekends from August 30 through October 26, 2025, transforms Harveysburg into “Willy Nilly-on-the-Wash”, a bustling fairground alive with jousting knights, roaming minstrels, hearty feasts, and artisan markets.
Since its debut in 1990, the festival has grown into one of the largest and most beloved Renaissance fairs in the country. With 30 acres of village streets, 24 performance stages, and over 100 artisan shops, it offers an immersive, off-the-beaten-path adventure that transports guests out of modern life and back into an age of bold heroes and playful rogues.
What makes the festival extraordinary is that no two weekends feel the same. Each carries a theme, weaving unique characters, shows, and activities into the ongoing pageantry. Fantasy Weekend (Sept. 6–7) welcomes wizards and elves, while Pirates Weekend (Sept. 20–21) fills the lanes with sea-shanties and swagger. The spotlight weekend for Cincinnati audiences this September is the Feast of Fools (Sept. 13–14), where jesters and tricksters rule the village with pranks, laughter, and a joyful chaos unlike any other.
Later weekends bring their own surprises, from Viking competitions to Highland games, a Romance Weekend for couples, and a Heroes & Young Adventurers finale (Oct. 25–26) where kids under 12 enter free and first responders receive special discounts.
A trip to the festival isn’t complete without indulging in its legendary fare. Turkey legs roasted over open flames, mead and ale poured in frothing mugs, and modern delights like gourmet burgers and crafted brews keep energy high for a day of revelry. Meanwhile, the artisan market offers one-of-a-kind jewelry, swords, leatherwork, period clothing, and whimsical keepsakes—many crafted right before your eyes.
The festival’s heartbeat is its entertainment. Three times daily, knights in armor crash together in full-force jousts. Fire jugglers, sword fighters, comedy troupes, and live musicians fill the stages. Street performers blur the line between audience and show, pulling visitors into the spectacle as villagers, nobles, or wayward wanderers. With over 169 performances daily, there’s always a new corner of the village to explore.
Rest Like Royalty: Where to Stay Nearby
For travelers making a weekend of it, there are plenty of lodging options within a short drive of the festival grounds.
Caesar Creek State Park Campground – Just minutes from the fairgrounds, this popular site offers campsites with electric hookups, cabins, and access to hiking trails and Caesar Creek Lake. Perfect for families who want to extend their adventure into nature.
Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington – About 15 minutes from the festival, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and indoor pool facilities—an excellent option for groups seeking modern convenience.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Dayton South – I-675 – Located roughly 25 minutes north, it provides a reliable choice with easy interstate access for those pairing the festival with other Dayton-area attractions.
Airbnb in Waynesville – For a more intimate stay, consider booking a cozy Airbnb in the historic village of Waynesville, known for antique shops and charming small-town character.
Great Wolf Lodge Mason – About 30 minutes away, this resort offers an indoor waterpark and themed suites, making it an excellent option for families looking to blend medieval fantasy with kid-friendly fun.
These stays ensure that whether you prefer rustic camping, boutique comfort, or family-friendly resorts, your Renaissance journey doesn’t have to end at sundown.
This is more than an event—it’s an experience that draws visitors from across the Midwest. Named the second-best Renaissance fair in the U.S. by USA Today’s 10Best, the Ohio Renaissance Festival has become a cultural tradition that bridges fantasy with family fun. It’s a place where kids meet knights, adults lose themselves in laughter, and everyone leaves with memories of a time they never lived but somehow feel part of.
For travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary—something that blends history, imagination, and community spirit—the Ohio Renaissance Festival is a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination this fall.