Escape Into Another World at the Arkansas Renaissance Festival

Renaissance fair scene with people in period costumes, woman on a throne, others standing nearby.

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More than 70 shows daily, over 100 artisan merchants and a permanent fantasy village transform the forests of Mount Vernon into one of the South’s most immersive weekend destinations.

The moment the morning cannon echoes through the trees in Mount Vernon, it feels like you’ve crossed into another world. Hidden within the forests of Dragonstone Springs, the Arkansas Renaissance Festival is far more than a weekend event – it is a permanent fantasy village spread across more than 80 wooded acres with more than 100 structures, winding pathways and immersive experiences around every corner.

Unlike many modern events built around temporary fairgrounds and tents, Dragonstone Springs was designed to transport guests into a living realm where fantasy, history and adventure blend together. From the sound of steel clashing in the distance to musicians performing throughout the village, the experience surrounds you from the moment you step through the gates.

Actors in medieval costumes on stage in a forest setting, playing instruments and acting.

Welcome to Dragonstone Springs

Rather than simply watching performances from the sidelines, guests become part of the story. One moment you may be watching blacksmiths shape glowing iron by hand, and the next you could find yourself learning sword fighting techniques, competing in Viking games, testing your aim in archery or kneeling before the Queen during a knighting ceremony.

Across more than eight stages and performance areas, the festival comes alive with musicians, comedians, storytellers, belly dancers, fire performers, armored combat, stunt acts and full-contact jousting. More than 70 shows take place each festival day featuring performers and artisans from across the country and around the world.

Whether you arrive dressed in full royalty regalia or simply in jeans and sneakers, the realm welcomes everyone.

Group in historical costumes walking in a wooded area.

Feast Your Way Through the Village

The aromas drifting through the village are part of the experience itself. Guests can enjoy giant smoked turkey legs, Scotch eggs, fresh cobbler, funnel cakes, meats on a stick, iced coffee and other festival favorites while exploring the grounds.

For visitors seeking something more immersive, experiences like Tea with the Queen invite guests deeper into the world of Dragonstone Springs while creating memorable moments for families, couples and groups alike.

Explore the Artisan Marketplace

With more than 100 artisan merchants throughout the village, the marketplace feels like stepping into another era. Guests can browse handcrafted leather goods, blown glass, pottery, blacksmith creations, candles, costumes, jewelry, soaps, toys and fantasy-inspired artwork, much of it created onsite by the artisans themselves.

Fire performers in an outdoor setting, one breathing fire, the other water.

Six Weekends of Adventure

Each themed weekend transforms the realm with new adventures and experiences, from pirates and Highland celebrations to Viking invasions, masquerade fantasy and gothic elegance. Some guests spend the day fully immersed in costume and roleplay, while others simply enjoy wandering the shaded village pathways taking in the atmosphere at their own pace.

With enough entertainment, food, shopping and interactive experiences to fill multiple visits, many travelers return throughout the season to experience different themed weekends. Located just 35 minutes from Conway, the festival has become a popular destination for visitors across Arkansas and neighboring states. Stay close to the magic, and you can spend a little more time in Dragonstone Springs.

Make it a Weekend to Remember

As evening approaches and the village gathers for the Grand Farewell, the line between performance and reality feels thinner than ever. Long after leaving the castle gates behind, many guests find themselves still talking about the music, laughter, characters and moments of wonder they experienced inside the realm.

At Dragonstone Springs, the magic is not something you simply watch – it is something you step inside.

Festival Details:

2026 Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, August 29 – October 4 (including Labor Day)
Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Location: Dragonstone Springs | Mount Vernon, AR
Admission: Tickets available online or at the gate. Sundays are Family Days with special pricing for families and kids.
Pet Policy: Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome with a pet ticket.

Tickets and season passes available at arrenfest.com.