Santa Fe Renaissance Fair

Held on the grounds of El Rancho de Las Golondrinas outside Santa Fe, this two-day event is billed as New Mexico's premier and longest-running Renaissance faire. Visitors cross the "Kingdom of Golondrinas" to find jousting by the Order of Epona, armored combat tournaments and Belegarth medieval combat, a Fairy Village with a troll bridge, mermaid cove and craft activities, a Royal Court with audiences and a knighting ceremony, plus history talks on armor, weapons and noble dress. Multiple stages carry pipe bands, Irish and Highland dancing, circus acts and folk ensembles, alongside artisan and food vendors and local beer, mead, cider and wine. Tickets are sold only online in advance and the event sells out; parking is offsite at HIPICO Santa Fe with a free shuttle.