The 43rd annual Bay Area Renaissance Festival has moved to a new location this year, operating at Withlacoochee River Park in Dade City.
Festival-goers can travel back to a 16th century European Village, where they can join the Villages of Fittleworth, and Queen Katherine Parr and her court.
There will be more than 100 artisans selling their goods in the market, people will be able to interact with memorable characters, and spectators will be able to watch full-contact, live armored jousting, according to the festival’s website.
All stage shows and other entertainment are included with admission, while games, rides, food, and beverages are available at additional charges.
The festival operates on Saturdays and Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine, according to its website. Tickets are non-refundable.
At the gate, tickets are $22.95 for adults, and $14.95 for children ages 5 through 12. Children age 4 and under can attend for free. There’s no charge for parking.
This year, the festival is partnering with Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources — an arrangement applauded by Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore, during an April 7 board meeting.
“The Bay Area Renaissance Festival has been a mainstay at MOSI for a number of years, and the parks team did an excellent job of bringing that here to Pasco County,” said Moore, who is chairman of the Tourism Development Council, an advisory board to the Pasco County Commission.
The annual festival is big for tourism, Moore said.
“People actually travel from outside of the state of Florida to come to this,” Moore said.
Plus, he added: “It’s a pretty neat experience. It’s a lot of fun.
“They’re going to have four stages,” Moore said, with magicians, musicians, mimes and jugglers. There also will be food, drink available, and vendors, too.
“We’re happy to have it here in Pasco County,” the commissioner added.
The event has a theme each weekend. This year’s remaining theme weekends are: Pirates & Pups, Barbarian Brew, Shamrocks & Shenanigans, High Seas Adventure, and Wonders of the World.
As a precaution against the potential spread of COVID-19, masks are recommended for all guests and will be worn by all participants — employees or volunteers — who over age 5, when social distancing cannot be maintained, the website says.
Physical distancing is encouraged and temporary adjustments are in place to promote physical distancing, the website adds.
For additional information, call 800-601-4848, or visit BayAreaRenFest.com/faq.
Bay Area Renaissance Festival
Where: Withlacoochee River Park, 12449 Withlacoochee Blvd., in Dade City
When: Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., through May 23
Cost: At the gate, tickets are $22.95 for adults, and $14.95 for children ages 5 through 12. Children 4 and under can attend for free. There’s no charge for parking.
Details: Event-goers can step back in time to a 16th century European Village, joining the villagers of Fittleworth, and Queen Katherine Parr and her court. There will be more than 100 artisans selling their goods, people will be able to interact with memorable characters, and watch various acts and entertainers.
Info: Call 800-601-4848, or visit BayAreaRenFest.com.
Published April 21, 2021
