Two weekends ago, the kids and I ventured back in time without the use of a TARDIS. We used our ordinary van to head to the New York Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo Park, NY. Be sure to bring you funny bone with you as well as your wallet. This particular weekend kids were free so I saved $22 by going then. There are several coupons in community magazines which can help you on other weekends. Regular prices are $24 for adults, $11 for children ages 5-12, and children 4 & under are free.
I can recall my summer working as a “Beverage Wench” for the Faire long ago. Back then you had to make sure you had plenty of cash on hand because many of the vendors did not take credit cards. One bonus is that in this day and age, most vendors now have that Square so they can accept credit cards. I came prepared with both cash and cards just to be on the safe side.
If you wish to park close to the entrance I suggest getting there really early. We arrived at 10:15 and had to use one of the lower lots. There is a free bus service from the lower lots to the gate. I made the decision to go the night before which put my little Cos-player into a panic because they did not have a proper costume. I threw together fairy wings which I will blog later and managed to get them feeling magical for the day. As soon as we entered they were greeted by Leonardo DiVinci and asked to find something they loved and draw it for him. We then met the silent fairies. The fairies are all silent because humans do not speak their language.
Suuki’s Favorite Things:
The Fairies, The Fairy Forest, The Fairies, The Magical Fairy Dust Stand, The Fairies, The SKY Chairs, The Fairies, The Maze, The Fairies…..I LOVED EVERYTHING!!!!!
T’s Favorite Things:
Arsene Dupin’s “Magikhana” Show, The Elf Ears Stand, The Dragon both puppets and lizards, The Parrots of the Caribbean, Dragon Chips, Birds of Prey
The most surprising part of the day was a HUGE step for T. He was taken on stage during Arsene Dupin‘s “Magikhana” performance. Unlike his sibling, T is not one for being on a stage. As we went to see his show, T insisted we sit in the front. I reminded him that 2 years ago his PopPop was teased throughout the entire show by the magician. T felt our front row seats on the side were a safe place. Imagine his shock as he was taken on stage to assist Arsene Dupin. If you EVER get a chance to see this man perform, you really must. He is amazing at what he does. His entire show is done without talking. The body language that Arsene uses conveys so much that you cannot stop laughing while his magic tricks amazing you. T was gifted with a free DVD of Arsene Dupin‘s stage performance so his bravery.
Mom’s Tips: Bring a backpack with water bottles, packed lunches, snacks, other drinks, and sunscreen. Unlike other venues you can bring outside food into the Faire. Which is a great thing because at $9.50 for a Turkey Leg, lunch can become REALLY expensive. I compromised and let them share a plate of Dragon Chips at $8. They loved them.
Mom’s Favorite Highlight: The Parrots of the Caribbean
This exhibit was located inside the Birds of Prey area. My entrance fee was a $2 donation to help with the care of the birds and the kids were free. You get up close and personal with Macaws of a variety of colors, Cockatoos, and more. The kids loved how close they could get to the birds. There was even a cute pair of twins that were hugging.
Highlights of the day:
ADDled Adventures 