Sherwood Forest Faire Returns for 17th Season of Medieval Magic in Central Texas
Central Texas is once again preparing to step back in time as the 17th Annual Sherwood Forest Faire returns to the pine-shaded village near McDade for eight festive weekends of medieval revelry. From February 28 to April 19, 2026, visitors from Austin, Houston, and beyond will gather to join Robin Hood and Lady Marian for a one-of-a-kind celebration steeped in song, steel, and community spirit.
Just 35 miles east of Austin, nestled in the Lost Pines region, this locally owned renaissance-style faire transforms 25 acres into a bustling medieval village—complete with a castle, stages, artisan markets, and a vibrant cast of characters.
A Beloved Texas Tradition
Sherwood Forest Faire first opened its gates in 2010, born from the shared vision of founders George Appling and Eric Todd. The duo, under Sherwood Forest Faire, LLC, set out to create an immersive, historically inspired event grounded in the tales of Robin Hood and 12th-century England. Each new season pushes the storyline forward a fictional year, with the original opening set in the year 1189.
Since those early days, the event has blossomed into a springtime staple in the Austin area, drawing around 100,000 attendees each season. While the 2020 season was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Faire bounced back stronger than ever, offering both digital content and an enthusiastic in-person return in 2021.
Entertainment and Experiences for All Ages
What sets Sherwood Forest Faire apart from other festivals is its extraordinary scale of live entertainment. This year, guests can expect more than 150 performances per day across multiple stages, featuring full-contact jousting, falconry, archery, swordplay, theater, fire juggling, and live music.
Roaming performers—minstrels, magicians, faeries, and storytellers—bring the lanes to life, while interactive shows and comedy acts cater to families, adults, and children alike.
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Artisan Marketplace and Hands-On Demos
The Faire’s Artisan Marketplace features over 170 skilled vendors, most of whom create their wares by hand. From leather armor and forged blades to hand-blown glass, pottery, and medieval jewelry, the market offers treasures and keepsakes unlike anything found in modern stores.
Craftspeople frequently offer live demonstrations, and many booths include hands-on activities that let visitors and children try their hand at ancient skills.
Feast Like Royalty
No trip to Sherwood is complete without sampling the medieval fare and drink. Expect hearty plates of chicken parmigiana, sizzling meat-on-a-stick, savory pies, and more, all washed down with mead, cider, and ale served in rustic tankards.
Food and beverage vendors are scattered across the village, making it easy to refuel between jousts and jam sessions.
Plan for a Weekend Getaway
For the full experience, many visitors choose to stay on-site in the Faire’s campgrounds, which offer general, quiet, and clan camping areas. From Friday at noon through Monday at noon, the grounds become a community of revelers enjoying live music, shared meals, and late-night storytelling. For those wanting extra luxury, the Faire even offers castle bedrooms for rent.
Note that pets are welcome in the campgrounds (with restrictions), but not inside the Faire grounds. Facilities are rustic, with port-a-johns, limited water access, and no RV dump stations, so visitors should come prepared.
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Weddings, Events & Off-Season Offerings
The Faire’s permanent infrastructure, including Nottingham Castle, Maid Marian’s Chapel, and the Sacred Stone Circle, allows it to host fairy tale weddings, vow renewals, and private events year-round.
Outside the Faire season, the venue also welcomes Celtic festivals, LARP events, and other unique gatherings, making it a central hub for lovers of fantasy, history, and community.
2026 Sherwood Forest Faire Details
- Dates: Weekends from February 28 to April 19, 2026
- Bonus Day: Open Friday, March 20 (Spring Break Friday)
- Hours: 10 a.m. to dusk, rain or shine
- Location: 1883 Old Hwy 20, McDade, TX (Entrance off US 290)
- Tickets: Discounts available online; kids under 6 are free
- Camping: Available Friday–Monday each weekend (extended hours for Spring Break)
Whether you're looking to shop for handmade treasures, feast like royalty, or simply lose yourself in a world of fantasy and fun, Sherwood Forest Faire 2026 offers one of the most immersive and beloved medieval experiences in Central Texas.
To learn more, purchase tickets, or explore camping options, visit sherwoodforestfaire.com.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.