Arizona Renaissance Festival: Dates, Tickets & Guide
The Arizona Renaissance Festival is a 50-acre re-created 16th-century village in Gold Canyon, east of Apache Junction off US-60. It runs weekends across late winter into spring with jousting knights, a falconry show, dozens of stage acts, an artisan marketplace, rides and games, and hearty festival food — and many weekends carry a fun theme.
When
Typically Saturdays and Sundays (plus Presidents' Day) from early February into late March or early April, weekends only. Confirm the exact run and themed-weekend calendar on the official site.
Where
12601 E. US Highway 60, Gold Canyon — about 7 miles east of Apache Junction in the East Valley (roughly 40+ minutes east of downtown Phoenix via US-60).
Tickets
Paid admission; kids 4 and under are free. Buy online in advance (cheaper than the gate) via the festival's ticketing partner. Prices change each season — verify on the official site.
Tips
- Buy tickets online in advance and arrive early — parking is free but the lot and front gate get busy by late morning on peak weekends.
- Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes (the grounds are dirt and gravel) and dress for big day-to-night temperature swings; costumes are welcome.
- Check the themed-weekend schedule, and don't miss the jousting tournaments — arrive a few minutes early for arena seating.
Upcoming dates & related events
FAQ
When is the Arizona Renaissance Festival?
Typically weekends (Saturdays and Sundays, plus Presidents' Day) from early February into late March or early April. Confirm exact dates on the official site.
How much are tickets and where do I buy them?
Admission is paid (kids 4 and under free); buy online in advance for the best price, or at the gate. Prices change yearly — check the official site.
Where is it?
At 12601 E. US Highway 60 in Gold Canyon, about 7 miles east of Apache Junction in the East Valley.
What should I expect and bring?
Jousting, falconry, stage shows, an artisan marketplace, rides, and festival food across a 50-acre village. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes and sun protection; costumes are welcome.