Welcome to Wyldwood RenFest: A New Adventure Awaits!

Hear ye, hear ye! Gather ‘round, travellers, storytellers, and seekers of wonder—for a grand adventure is about to unfold!

Welcome to Wyldwood Renaissance Festival, a brand-new event steeped in history, myth, and merriment. Nestled in the heart of the North East, Wyldwood RenFest is set to become a haven for those who long to step beyond the modern world and into a realm of knights and knaves, minstrels and merchants, jesters and jugglers. Whether ye be a seasoned faire-goer or a curious newcomer, we bid you welcome to the very first chapter of our tale.

And what better way to begin than with a celebration fit for storytellers and songsmiths alike—for 2026 shall be the Year of the Bard!

A Festival Born of Passion and Purpose

Wyldwood RenFest isn’t just an event—it’s a labour of love, a vision woven together by those who believe in the magic of the past and the thrill of immersive storytelling. Inspired by the great Renaissance Faires of old, we are crafting an experience that brings history, folklore, and fantasy to life in a way that is engaging, inclusive, and utterly unforgettable.

Set against the sprawling 53-acre landscape of Kirkleatham Showground, our festival will transport visitors to a time of bustling market streets, lively taverns, and grand performances. From the clang of blacksmiths at work to the sweet melodies of wandering minstrels, every moment at Wyldwood RenFest is designed to delight the senses and ignite the imagination.

This inaugural year, we shine a special spotlight on the bards—the poets, musicians, and storytellers who carry the spirit of the age in every note and every word. Expect their voices to echo through the woods and their tales to live in your heart long after the gates close.

What Awaits You in 2026?

Wyldwood RenFest will throw open its gates for the very first time on 29th–31st May 2026, and though the festival is still taking shape, here’s a glimpse of what you can expect when the revelry begins:

🔥 A Living, Breathing Renaissance World – Stroll through an immersive village filled with costumed characters, historical reenactors, and mythical creatures, each with their own stories to tell.

🎭 Thrilling Entertainment – From raucous stage performances to intimate storytelling circles, the festival will be alive with music, theatre, and feats of daring. As part of our Year of the Bard celebrations, don’t miss the Battle of the Bards—a spirited contest of wit, verse, and voice, where the victor shall be crowned with glory and a one-of-a-kind prize: a jumbo-sized crocheted Bodkin the Dragon plushie!

🛍️ A Marketplace Like No Other – Discover a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, from artisan leatherwork to medieval garb, jewellery, and curiosities beyond imagination. Our marketplace will be a celebration of craftsmanship, with traders and makers from across the land.

🍖 Feast Like Royalty – Satisfy your appetite with hearty fare inspired by history, alongside sweet treats and, of course, plenty of mead! Our official sponsor, Nidhoggr Mead Co., will ensure that your goblets are never empty.

🧝‍♀️ A Festival for All – Whether you’re a history buff, a fantasy enthusiast, a family seeking adventure, or simply someone who loves a good story, Wyldwood RenFest will have something for you. We are committed to making the festival welcoming and accessible to all, ensuring that every guest can fully enjoy the experience.

How to Join the Adventure

The journey to Wyldwood RenFest 2026 has only just begun, and there are many ways to get involved before the gates open!

🌿 Join the Wyldwood Community – Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or join our Discord community to stay up to date with festival news, behind-the-scenes content, and exciting announcements.

⚔️ Become Part of the Festival – Whether you’re a performer, artisan, reenactor, vendor, or volunteer, we’d love to hear from you. You can fill in the relevant form via the Helpful Links section on our website to apply and be part of the Wyldwood magic—especially if you’ve a tale to tell or a tune to share.

📜 Spread the Word – Tell your friends, share the news, and help us build a festival that will stand the test of time!

The Beginning of a Grand Tale

Every great festival starts with a single step—or in this case, a single announcement. Wyldwood RenFest is more than just a weekend event; it’s a growing community, a celebration of creativity, and a place where history and fantasy meet in the most spectacular way.

So, dust off your best garb, ready your flags and banners, and mark your calendars. The adventure begins 29th–31st May 2026—and we can’t wait to welcome you to Wyldwood, where The Year of the Bard begins, and the magic of storytelling reigns supreme.

Let the revelry begin! 🎉Welcome to Wyldwood RenFest: The Year of the Bard Awaits!