Creating Your Renaissance Character

The Central Coast Renaissance Festival is a vibrant celebration of history, culture, and creativity.

One of the most exciting aspects of this festival is the opportunity to get a costume and develop a character from that era.

Whether you are a participant or paid guest, creating a Renaissance character makes your visit so much more exciting. Often, this is as close to acting as many people will get. As a result, you become part of the fantasy for others to enjoy.

Here’s how to get started:

Choose Your Persona

The first step in creating your Renaissance character is to choose who you want to be. Will you be a noble lord or lady, a daring adventurer, a mischievous rogue, or perhaps a humble peasant? Consider your interests, personality, and the type of role you’d like to play during the festival.

Research and Inspiration

Dive into research about the Renaissance period to gather inspiration for your character. Explore the fashion, language, customs, and societal norms of the time. Historical novels, films, and documentaries can provide valuable insights into the daily lives and personalities of people from that era.

Develop a Backstory

Every memorable character has a compelling backstory. Think about your character’s origins, family background, occupation, and motivations. What events shaped their life? Are there any secrets or hidden agendas that drive them? Fleshing out these details will add depth and authenticity to your character.

Costume and Accessories

Once you have a clear vision of your character, it’s time to assemble your costume and accessories.

Whether you’re aiming for opulent aristocratic attire or rustic peasant garb, attention to detail is key. Consider incorporating authentic fabrics, colors, and accessories such as jewelry, hats, and props to enhance your character’s authenticity. Take a look at our costume page for some ideas and examples.

From there you can find out how to make  simple renaissance costumes.

Or, as many people do, you can buy everything you need from the excellent clothing vendors at the festival.

Here is the best book you’ll find for creating authentic looking looks.

Practice Your Persona

Bring your character to life by practicing their mannerisms, speech, and posture. Consider how your character would interact with others and adapt their behavior accordingly. Whether you’re engaging in lively banter, haggling at the marketplace, or participating in a theatrical performance, staying in character will enrich your festival experience.

Immerse Yourself in the Atmosphere

The Central Coast Renaissance Festival offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, dance, performances, and interactive experiences. Immerse yourself fully in the festivities by participating in activities and engaging with fellow attendees. Embrace the spirit of camaraderie and creativity that defines the Renaissance era.

If this sounds like too much, please don’t think you have to do all of this. Just start and see where it goes. Most importantly, have fun.