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A First-Timer's Guide
GRF  ·  XLI  ·  2026

Georgia Renaissance
Festival

Step through the gates into a living, breathing Renaissance village — and never look back.

April 11 – May 31, 2026 · 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM · Fairburn, GA · Rain or Shine
GRF  ·  XLI  ·  GRF
Welcome to the Festival
What is the Georgia
Renaissance Festival?
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Now in its 41st season, the Georgia Renaissance Festival is one of the Southeast's most beloved traditions — a full-scale outdoor living history event just 30 minutes south of Atlanta.

Hundreds of costumed performers, knights, royalty, craftspeople, and jesters fill an entire Renaissance village — an experience unlike anything else.

Expect to spend a full day — most guests linger 4–6 hours without running out of things to see, eat, and discover.

XLI
41st Season — Est. 1986
14 Live Stages
160+ Artisan Shoppes & Vendors
300+ Sips & Bites
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Your Day at the Festival
What to Expect
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Full-Armored Jousting
Full-Armored Jousting
Watch genuine knights compete in full plate armor — thundering down the lists at full speed. The signature event of the festival. Grab reserved seating if you can.
14 Live Stages
14 Live Stages
Comedy, acrobatics, juggling, music, magic, and more running all day across the village. Pick up a show schedule at the gate and map out your favorites.
300+ Sips & Bites
300+ Sips & Bites
From the legendary giant roasted turkey legge to craft ales, meads, fresh-baked bread, and indulgent desserts — there's no shortage of feasting.
Games of Skill & Rides
Games of Skill & Rides
Axe throwing, archery, camel rides, and hands-on fun spread throughout the grounds. Something for guests of every age.
Costumed Performers
Costumed Performers
Hundreds of costumed villagers bring the festival fully to life. Interact with knights, royalty, and jesters — the magic is participatory.
160+ Artisan Shoppes
160+ Artisan Shoppes
Skilled craftspeople offering handmade jewelry, leatherwork, pottery, clothing, and one-of-a-kind gifts you won't find anywhere else.
Plan Your Visit
When & Where
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Dates
April 11 – May 31, 2026
Every Saturday & Sunday
Plus Memorial Day
Hours
10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Rain or Shine
Parking opens 9:00 AM
Location
6905 Virlyn B. Smith Rd.
Fairburn, GA 30213
I-85 Exit 61
~30 min south of Atlanta
Contact
(770) 964-8575
Free general parking
VIP Parking available online
Arrive Like Royalty
Upgrade Your Day
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VIP Parking
Skip the walk and arrive steps from the gate. Add VIP Parking when you purchase tickets online.
Reserved Joust Seating
Premium covered seats with fans, the best view of the lists, crowns/pennants, and a commemorative pin. $15/seat.
Pub Crawl (21+)
Souvenir mug, three beverages, a guide through three pubs — including one private show stop. ~1.5 hrs. Limited spots.
From Those Who Know
First-Timer Tips
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Make the most of your first visit with these time-tested tips.

01
Buy Tickets Online in Advance
Tickets are date-specific and popular weekends sell out. Online purchase saves money and guarantees your spot — don't wait until the day of.
02
Arrive at Opening
Getting there at 10:30 AM means shorter food lines, first pick of the shoppes, and front-row seats at the morning joust.
03
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grounds are outdoor and unpaved. Expect to walk 3–5 miles over the course of the day — comfort is king.
04
Dress for Georgia Spring
Sunscreen, a hat, and a light layer are your best friends. Costumes are absolutely welcome — many guests dress the part.
05
Note: Outside Food Not Allowed
Outside food and drink are generally not permitted. Each guest may bring one 16oz water bottle. Medical and dietary exceptions — check in with gate staff on arrival.
06
Grab a Show Schedule at the Gate
With 14 stages running at once, the free printed schedule is essential. Pick a few must-sees, then explore freely in between.
07
Interact with the Performers
Everyone in costume is there to engage with you. The more you participate, the more magical it becomes — don't be shy.
08
Don't Skip the Turkey Leg
It's a rite of passage. Order one early before the afternoon rush, find a shaded bench, and settle in. A true Renaissance festival tradition.
XLI
Your Adventure Begins April 11th

41 seasons. Still the best day of the year.

Saturdays, Sundays & Memorial Day  ·  April 11 – May 31, 2026  ·  Fairburn, GA

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© Georgia Renaissance Festival, Inc.  ·  garenfest.com  ·  6905 Virlyn B. Smith Rd., Fairburn, GA 30213  ·  (770) 964-8575