Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Central Coast Renaissance Festival?
The Central Coast Renaissance Festival is an annual event celebrating the culture, arts, and entertainment of the Renaissance period. It features live performances, artisan vendors, historical reenactments, interactive activities, and more.
2. When and where does the festival take place?
The festival takes place on July 18 & 19, 2026, at Laguna Lake Park in San Luis Obispo, California. Hours are 10 AM – 6 PM. Laguna Lake Park is located at 504 Madonna Road in San Luis Obispo.
Please check our website, Facebook, and Instagram for the most up-to-date information.
3. How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be purchased online through our website or at the entrance gate on the day of the event. We recommend purchasing in advance to avoid long lines and secure your spot. Online tickets will be available in early 2026.
Adult Single Day Ticket – $35
Senior/Child Day Ticket – $30
Under Age 6 FREE
Weekend Adult Ticket – $50
Weekend Senior/Child Ticket – $45
Under Age 6 FREE
Single Day Parking – $10
Weekend Parking – $20
Parking is $10 per vehicle, and we request that you bring exact change.
4. Are there discounts available for groups or special promotions?
Keep an eye on our website, Facebook, and Instagram for special promotions and discount codes. For group discounts, contact info@CCRenFaire.com.
5. What should I wear to the festival?
Attendees are welcome to dress in Renaissance-inspired attire, but it is not required. Costumes can range from simple peasant garb to elaborate noble ensembles. Several vendors sell beautiful, authentic costumes for men, women, and children. Comfortable shoes are recommended as the festival grounds may have uneven terrain.
6. What can I expect to see at the festival?
Here is a partial list of the many entertainers at the 2025 festival. In addition to scheduled stage shows, there is constant improv theater throughout the site. Here is a list of stage schedules.
7. Can I bring my own food and drinks?
You are not permitted to bring outside food and drinks. We have many vendors offering a variety of tasty food and drinks here. However, exceptions may be made for special dietary needs or the necessities of infants and toddlers. Please note that only unopened water bottles are permitted. Opened bottles will be emptied; however, a free water filling station is available inside. Please contact us in advance if you have specific concerns: info@CCRenFaire.com.
You may not bring your own alcohol or illegal substances to the festival (item #15). Please read item #18 below regarding security.
You can view a list of available food items here. This may be expanded before the festival.
8. Is the festival family-friendly?
Yes, the Central Coast Renaissance Festival takes pride in being a family-friendly event. We offer activities and entertainment suitable for all ages, including children. Such things include a parrot show, puppetry, storytelling, and a play area. There are also games, a costume contest, and a Sunday pirate treasure hunt. Enjoy music and take photos on a pirate ship. Don’t miss the Buccaneer Boot Camp and a special play area.
9. Are pets allowed at the festival?
Except for service dogs, pets are not permitted at the festival due to safety and sanitation reasons. If you arrive with a dog that is not a service animal, you will not be allowed to enter.
10. Are there ATM facilities available on-site?
While we encourage attendees to bring cash for purchases, ATM facilities are available on-site for your convenience. Most vendors accept credit cards, but the alcohol booths do not. It’s always a good idea to have cash on hand just in case.
11. Who puts on the festival?
The Central Coast Renaissance Festival is run by History Revisited. This is a non-profit group in San Luis Obispo, California. The 2024 festival will be the 40th annual event. It would be our 42th except for the pandemic, which shuttered us for two years.
12. How can I get involved as a performer or vendor?
We welcome performers and vendors who fit the theme and atmosphere of our festival. Please visit our web page for information on how to apply and participate in future events.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can contact us through our website. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram. Info@CCRenFaire.com is a great place to ask questions.
We look forward to seeing you at the Central Coast Renaissance Festival!
13. Tell Me About The Weather
Laguna Lake Park lies within the Los Osos Valley. Cool ocean breezes may happen, or more likely, it will be warm. We recommend wearing sunscreen and a hat. An umbrella or parasol may come in handy on a hot day. We do have many shade covers, and the trees provide lovely shade.
14. What if the name on my ticket isn’t who is using it.
That won’t matter. We scan the ticket, but do not look at your ID.
15. What About Alcohol And Drugs
No one under the age of 21 may drink on the premises. Underage drinking is not tolerated. Underage drinking and substance abuse jeopardize the very existence of the Central Coast Renaissance Festival. Minors caught drinking alcohol or using drugs will lose their wristbands. They will be removed from the festival without a refund. Anyone found using illegal drugs or smoking will be removed.
Please note that alcohol is not permitted at the festival. Don’t worry, we have plenty if you are of legal age to enjoy it.
16. What About Accessibility
The festival site is not paved but is primarily hard-packed ground. There are some tree roots in places and a few sandy spots. We have accommodated many guests in wheelchairs and using walkers without any issues.
17. Can I Smoke At The Festival
Nope. County park rules. No smoking of anything is allowed. If you have to smoke, please do it in your vehicle and do not put the butt, roach, ashes, or anything hot outside your car. We appreciate your cooperation.
18. Security At The Festival
The world has changed. When you enter a festival or concert today, you can expect to pass through security. They’re looking for illegal substances. Unfortunately, we have to do that too. If you want to bring personal items in a backpack or bag, you’ll go through security faster with a clear bag. We have a blog post about that here.
19. How To Prepare For The Festival
Here’s a blog post with some tips on how to prepare for the perfect day at the festival.
20. May I Leave & Re-enter
You’ll get a wristband that says either Saturday or Sunday. You can come and go as you wish on that day.
21. Cash Or Credit Card
Most vendors accept credit cards, although the cellular service can be slow. We also have several ATMs on site. The alcohol stand is cash only.
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