Scarborough Faire is a renassiance festival in Waxahachie, TX. It runs from April through May, weekends and Memorial Day Monday – 10 AM to 7 PM.
Our family was offered tickets, so that we could share this experience with you. The Waxahachie renaissance festival, Scarborough Faire is something I had visited several times as a child so was fun to relive it, this time with my kids and husband.
Saturday was one of those days of well intent. We planned on picking our daughter up from a lock-in and heading out early to beat the heat. Yeah, that didn’t happen. We headed out to Waxahachie, TX late – it’s about 30-minutes south of Dallas.
The kids had only been fed Kind bars and I was feeling the stress realizing that the toddlers hadn’t napped and our daughter had barely slept the night before. Thankfully all of my concerns were nothing and we had a fabulous day at the faire.
What to Expect at Scarborough Faire
Imagine being whisked away to a village set in the renaissance era. Scarborough Faire is like taking a trip back into time.
A Renaissance Festival
There are numerous people, both workers and attendees playing various roles – setting the stage for your visit. From the way they talk to mannerisms, you will find people take this renaissance festival seriously!
There are numerous shops and activities to do through-out your visit. Some of the activities are free, others you pay for.
My daughter’s favorite find was her flower headdress. She said she felt like she fit in more with it. Next time, we will make sure she is in costume, she had so much fun and loved the role-play aspect of the festival.
Toddlers
I wasn’t sure how our boys would do, but honestly was blown away at the fun they had. Everyone was super kind and there were so many things for them to do and see.
The first thing we did was rent them a “Dragon Wagon”. It was $2.50 an hour, with a minimal security deposit (and they accepted credit cards.) This allowed them shade and the ability to jump in and out as their legs got tired. Our youngest spent most of his time in here, just eating grapes and chilling. It was nice to have a spot for them – as there is a LOT of walking.
What to Know Before You Go
As I mentioned there is a LOT of walking. Wear shoes that will allow you to walk on dirt. I would recommend against flip flops or sandals.
Bring sunscreen as it is HOT. The villages at Scarborough Faire do offer shade, but still – it’s hot.
There are numerous food vendors through out the festival. You can find everything from turkey legs (my kids favorite) to sweet potatoes (my favorite) to fresh fruit (which was great for a late snack).
Cell phone reception is spotty. Make sure that you have a meet-up spot, should you get separated from your family.
Buy a $3 program at the entrance. This will have a map and a schedule of all activities. Speaking of schedule.
PLAN. There is so much to do and see, and several things are done only at certain times. Keep reading, to see what you need to see!
First Aid is near the front entrance. We had a minor incident with our toddler getting too curious and hitting his head. They supplied an ice pack immediately. This is just one of those, good to know things – especially when bringing kids.
Plan to See and Do
As I was saying, PLAN! We missed a few things, but here are some activities you will not want to miss!
Fire Juggler – WOW. Yes, he is on a ladder.
Jousting – This is held several times through-out the day. Something to note, it’s violent (fake blood and all!)
Music – You will find music through-out. Stop and enjoy the sounds!
Sword Lessons – This is a fun activity for the kids!
Glass Blower – Another neat experience!
Wooden Horse Jousting – I remember riding this as a child! Each of our kids loved this. You ride the horse down a track and try to hit a shield with a fake sword.
May Pole
Hair Braiding – This starts at around $20. The “twisted sisters” have numerous styles for you to choose from.
Archery – The older kids shot arrow into targets in the hay. It was a fun experience, something they had never done before!
Wax Hands – If you have ever had wax hands made at Scarborough Faire Renaissance Festival – it’s something you never forget!
Turtle Race – This is silly, but my 9-year-old still raves about this.
Where is Scarborough Faire
2511 Farm to Market 66
All 6 members of our family enjoyed the faire. Each of our kids has talked about the faire over the past week. The experience was educational, fun and something we definitely look forward to going to again.
Learn more about Scarborough Faire
More Fun Things to Do in Dallas with Kids