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Albuquerque Renaissance Faire: A One-of-a-Kind Trip Back in Time

Warm weather, sunshine and abundant activities are just a few things you’ll find when you choose Albuquerque, New Mexico, as your next vacation destination. The first European settlers to arrive in this area were the Spanish, who arrived in 1706 under orders from King Phillip to establish a new city on the banks on the Rio Grande River. For most of the 1700’s and 1800’s Albuquerque remained as a quiet trading post. In 1880, the railroads arrived and the city changed forever. By 1885, the city was growing rapidly was incorporated. The 20th century brought more people and businesses to this beautiful region and the city has expanded to over 840,000 residents.

 

From favorable year round temperatures to seemingly impossible natural rock formations, Albuquerque has something for everyone who visits. The city is a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking through the network of scenic local trails, rafting the rapids of the Rio Grande River, and teeing off at one of the many championship level courses. The culinary scene here is extensive. You’ll love the wide assortment of dining establishments and the delicious dishes they serve. The art and creative communities in the city are flourishing. You’ll find public murals, galleries, shows and more, where you can experience the unique local culture first hand. The health and wellness industry is prominent in Albuquerque, so make sure to schedule an appointment at one of the spas or wellness centers. The city is also home to some great events and festivals, like the Albuquerque Renaissance Faire.

 

For the past four years the Albuquerque Renaissance Faire has been establishing itself as a can't-miss event in the Albuquerque area. This is a family-friendly event with a little something for everyone. Everything at the faire is designed to transport you back to the Renaissance period. All ages will love the fun activities like watching armored combat, listening to live music, witnessing live demonstrations and so much more. You’ll find all the food and refreshments you can dream of as well as tasty beverages from local breweries (if you're 21 or older). Take your upcoming family excursion to a next level of fun and head to the Albuquerque Renaissance Faire for an experience your family won't forget. We got the opportunity to interview Bree Ortiz, Events and Operations Manager for the City of Albuquerque Cultural Services Department, to talk about this fun event.

 

RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event.

BO: This will be the fourth year of the Albuquerque Renaissance Faire. The first year we hoped for 1,000 attendees and over 3,000 people ended up attending. In fact, just last year we had over 6,000 people enjoy the faire! The event is already shaping up to have higher attendance this year. While everyone is encouraged to come out and check out the faire, our patronage mainly consists of families with kids.

 

RAL: What makes the event unique?

BO: The event is a unique mix of activities and performances. The faire takes you back to the Renaissance Era, through traditional music, live demonstrations, and an overall Renaissance theme. There will also be a modern features at the faire as well, with food trucks and local breweries serving delicious brews. We truly have something for everyone.

 

RAL: Take me through a day at the event, what can I expect as an attendee?

BO: This year's activities will include the return of all the fan favorites from last year including armored combat demonstrations, an equestrian showcase, live entertainment, The Tilted Tankard Tavern (21+), Commoner's Food Court, a free Children's Realm, a Group Wedding, and Village Shopping. New this year, there will be a Faire Wear Show: Pet Fashion Contest!

 

There will be seven food trucks and concession booths throughout the Faire with everything from wood-fired pizza, meat pies, smoked turkey legs, beef burgundy stew, and artisan bread, to pies, ice cream, nachos and burgers. For the adults, we have six local breweries, a winery, a meadery, and a distillery, all serving delicious beverages for adults of the appropriate age.

 

The event will be taking place both indoors and outdoors at the Albuquerque International Balloon Museum.

 

RAL: What will attendees find for local lodging?

BO: While we don't have any specials with local lodging providers this year, there are a number of hotels in the area for Faire attendees to stay. New to the faire this year: We will be offering on site RV parking for two nights, reservations are required!

 

RAL: What does this event mean to the community?

BO: The event is hosted by City of Albuquerque that depends on local small businesses, artists, and entertainers to make the event a success.

 

We partner with the local chapter of the Society for Creative Anachronism, a non-profit organization known for their demonstrations. We are using a local horse vaulting school for children in the equestrian showcase, and we have the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts to help with the Children’s Realm.

 

RAL: Why should people come?

BO: The Albuquerque Renaissance Faire is an event for all ages. We strive to entertain attendees as well as educate with Living History demonstrations that are true to the era. Guests can dress up in their best Renaissance garb and escape the stresses of today as they step back in time.


For more information about the Albuquerque Renaissance Faire, please visit their website.