LEWISBURG (Hinton News) – The West Virginia Renaissance Festival’s 2023 season has come to a close. According to event organizers, around 14,000 people attended during the season. Additionally, people reportedly traveled from as far away as Texas, Florida and Connecticut. Organizers noted that some guests stated they found most of the local hotels booked with the reason reported as “because the Renaissance Festival was going on.”
Along with the usual vendors, shows and other offerings, the festival added a few new things this year. The list includes the Cast in Bronze Carillion, which is described as a cathedral-like setting. Organizers state that Cast in Bronze will return next season. Another new edition added a bit of horror to the fair. It is called Headsman’s Dead End.
Some of the classics were more popular than ever. For example, festival organizers said the jousting drew record crowds, and the unicorn rides are always a favorite among the young princes and princesses. The Puppies of Penzance trick dog show was also enjoyed by many.
There was also an increased number of vendors. While some of the vendors traveled from out-of-state, two new booths were created by local young people. According to organizers, the creators of these booths’ parents have been involved with the festival since the beginning.
Food vendors included multiple examples of food from the Mountain State. The offerings included Mountain Dragon Mead, HawkKnob Cidery, Swift Level, Moonstruck Maple and freshly roasted coffee from Mountain Table. A variety of beers brewed in West Virginia were available in the festival pubs.
In terms of next year, organizers said, “We were blessed with great weather, and guests took the occasional summer shower with good cheer, sheltering in tents and pavilions before returning to the merriment. We plan to reopen June 8, 2024 for another 4-weekend season. Watch for more rides and a new pirate ship. Vendor applications are available on our website wvrenfest.com for those who wish to join the fun.”
Be sure to follow the @WV Renaissance Festival Facebook page for event updates.
