HARVEYSBURG, Ohio — The Ohio Renaissance Festival is set to return this fall, transforming the village of Willy-Nilly-on-the-Wash into a lively 16th-century village every weekend from August 30 through October 26, 2025.
The popular event, held in Warren County, offers visitors a chance to step back in time with costumed performers, themed weekends, jousting tournaments, and more than 60 live shows each day. Families, history buffs, and fantasy fans alike will find plenty to enjoy across the sprawling festival grounds.
Themed Weekends Add Fresh Fun
Each festival weekend features a different theme. Highlights include:
- Opening Weekend (Aug. 30–Sept. 1): A three-day kickoff to the season.
- Fantasy Weekend (Sept. 6–7): Witches, mermaids, fairies, and dragons bring the magic to life.
- Feast of Fools (Sept. 13–14): Comic antics and the fan-favorite Pumpkin vs. Watermelon War.
- Pirates Weekend (Sept. 20–21): Sea shanties, pirate etiquette, and a pirate ship takeover.
- Time Travelers Weekend (Sept. 27–28): Steampunk, sci-fi cosplay, and COSI exhibits.
- Viking Weekend (Oct. 4–5): Norse sagas, trades, and shield-raising.
- Highland Weekend (Oct. 11–12): Celtic music, games, and traditional foods.
- Romance Weekend (Oct. 18–19): Sweetest Day vow renewals at St. Peter’s Chapel.
- Heroes & Young Adventurers (Oct. 25–26): Free admission for children under 12, discounts for military and first responders.
Special Events and Mini Adventures
The festival also offers interactive experiences for all ages, including the Royal Feast, whiskey and wine tastings, a pub comedy show for adults, and premium jousting seating. Kids can join daily fairy and pirate playtimes, trade trinkets in the Viking Trade Game, or cheer on the Pumpkin vs. Watermelon battle.
Planning Your Visit
- Dates: Weekends, Aug. 30–Oct. 26, from 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Tickets: Available online or at the gate, with add-ons like tastings and feasts.
- Tips: Arrive early, dress for the weather, and plan breaks to take in all the entertainment.
With more than 150 costumed characters roaming the streets, 60+ daily shows, and food ranging from giant turkey legs to festival sweets, organizers say the Ohio Renaissance Festival offers something for everyone.
