NJ Renaissance Faire moves to Burlington County Fairgrounds

damo Ignis, Fire Show” Ron Frary, photographer.

It wasn’t clear that the 14th New Jersey Renaissance Faire would happen just a few weeks ago.

The event, which had outgrown its original location at Liberty Lake in Columbus, was moved this year. Organizers settled on a new home in Southampton and began building new stages and seating on the edge of the woods of an old airstrip and farm, only to find out five weeks before opening day that the state objected to the plan because it included using preserved farmland. The event was moved down the road to another farm, but neighbors protested and township officials threatened to fine the organizers, with only three weeks left before opening day.

Then the Burlington County Fairgrounds welcomed the event, saving the cash-depleted Renaissance Faire from its demise.

The New Jersey Renaissance Faire will run for three weekends this year: May 20-21, May 27-29, and June 10-11. Friday, June 2, will be a day dedicated to schools and homeschoolers.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day and will feature music, comedy, sword fighting, knights, princesses, aerialists, and more. A merchant village will feature hand-made crafts, jewelry, themed clothing, artwork, handmade soaps, candles, and other trinkets.

Performers will include Jacques ze Whipper, the singing troupe Chaste Treasure, and musical comedy legends Righteous Blackguards.

Children can play games like Nipper’s Nook, and adults can enjoy axe throwing, archery, and a Meade Garden hosted by the South Jersey Celtic Society featuring local craft beers and Valenzano wines. Food will be available for purchase at the Duke’s Feast Tent.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children ages 5 to 12. For more information and to buy tickets in advance, visit the NJ Renaissance Faire website.

Jaques Ze Whipper. Anja Mutschin, photographer.
Joust Knight. Michael Ulrich, photographer.