Experience a thrilling annual event that time-travels over 500 years back in history. The 2023 19th Annual Medieval Fair, proudly declaring itself “Bigger and Bolder,” will whisk you away to the era of King Henry V and the epic France-England battles. With a rich lineup of reenactments, tournaments, ancestral traditions, and activities, the fair remains a popular choice when exploring things to do in Lido Key.
Mark your calendars for every weekend from November 5th to November 26th, where you’ll discover an action-packed schedule that transports you to the heart of the past. Encounter costumed jesters, knights, minstrels, and other medieval characters, savor traditional delights like turkey legs and ale, and witness breathtaking reenactments of historic battles that make you feel like you’re right in the midst of the action.
Get ready to travel back in time during your next Florida vacation by attending the Sarasota Medieval Fair.
Let’s delve deeper into the history of the Sarasota Medieval Fair, explore how and where to secure your tickets, and uncover more about this enchanting journey through time.

About
The Sarasota Medieval Fair began in 2005. Once held in Ringling Woods just behind the Sarasota Fairgrounds, the Fair has moved in recent years to its new permanent location in the beautiful Woods of Mallaranny. The Fair would have been held at the new location in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic postponed the new location’s unveiling until November 2021.
Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Myakka City, FL, along State Road 70, you’ll find the enchanting 47-acre Woods of Mallaranny. This captivating venue boasts expansive grassy meadows, winding creeks, and majestic oak trees that not only enhance the Fair’s ambiance but also offer welcome shade on warm, sunny days.
In 2019, the Fair underwent an exciting transformation, extending its duration to four weekends, with the addition of the weekend immediately following Thanksgiving. This thoughtful expansion aimed to cater to visitors enjoying the long holiday weekend in the area. During the same year, the Fair introduced VIP tickets, a VIP tent, and exclusive perks to enhance the overall experience.
Year after year, the Fair has been a magnet for local artisans, craftsmen, and a diverse array of vendors. The gastronomic offerings are a true highlight, featuring a tempting array of treats such as King cheeseburgers, Shepherd pies, wood-fired pizza, delightful hot dogs (affectionately known as Jesters Dogs), and, of course, those iconic giant turkey legs. To quench your thirst, a range of beverages awaits, from beer, mead, and wine to sodas, lemonade, iced tea, and bottled water. If you plan on stopping for snacks and refreshments before touring the event, there are plenty of local restaurants in Lido Key to try instead!
Theme & Weekend Themes

The 2023 Sarasota Medieval Fair carries a captivating theme: “The French Chronicles”!
In 1415 AD, the pages of history witnessed the fierce clash between King Henry V’s English army and King Charles VI’s valiant French defenders, each vying for control of France. Will you align with the gallant French defenders or join the English invaders? Whichever side you choose, prepare for weekends filled with dramatic battle reenactments, exhilarating jousts, enthralling historical tales, theatrical performances, and captivating demonstrations of medieval life, both on and off the battlefield.
Aligned with the Fair’s theme, you can anticipate an array of riveting battle reenactments and thrilling jousting tournaments during this year’s festivities.
Continuing the Fair’s tradition, each weekend of the four-week event presents a distinct thematic experience. Past themes have transported visitors to realms like “French Classique Art,” “Cheese and Wine,” and “Papa Noel Celebration.” In 2023, the Fair promises an equally enchanting lineup of themes: “Exciting English Excursions,” “Fantastic French Festivities,” “Merry Medieval Music,” and “Saint Nicholas Celebration.”
Each themed weekend boasts a unique schedule of events. For instance, during the “Exciting English Excursions” weekend, participants can engage in a spirited competition showcasing their best English accents, while the “Merry Medieval Music” weekend invites entrants to mimic the melodious sounds of a bagpipe.
Prepare to be awed by spectacular tournaments and performances, including a thrilling Human Chess match, a historical reenactment of the Battle of Agincourt in 1415 AD, jousting clashes between fully-armored knights, and mesmerizing belly-dancing shows.
These weekends are likely to feature costume contests, musical concerts, captivating storytelling sessions, challenging games, and various engaging competitions.
Tickets
Sarasota Medieval Fair tickets for the full four weekends of this festival are available on the event’s website. You can purchase adult and child season passes that allow entrance to the Fair for all eight days. Since there are different themes and activities scheduled for each of the weekends, this could be an option if you’re in the area for the entire month and don’t want to miss any of the fun!
Two-day Flex Pass tickets for both adults and children are good for entry on any weekend you choose. Special online rates apply for both season and Flex passes. Group discount rates apply for groups larger than 20. You also have the option to purchase single-day tickets, either online or at the gate. In addition to adult and child tickets, senior citizens, students, and active military members can enjoy a discount on single-day passes.
A full-season VIP add-on has a load of benefits, such as shaded reserved seating, access to the VIP tent for meals and entertainment, a private restroom, a commemorative pin, and other perks such as unique snacks and complimentary water.
One of the most popular events of the Medieval Fair Sarasota is the Pub Crawl, a rotating taste-testing tour of the three main pubs. So popular is this event that it typically sells out and the Fair has added two such tours to each day of the Fair. You can avoid the long lines and possibly miss out on this top activity by adding the Pub Crawl to your ticket.
It’s worth noting that the Fair could be less crowded on Sundays as compared to Saturdays, so if you want to avoid crowds purchasing a ticket for any of the Fair’s four Sundays might work best for you. Opening weekend (November 4th & 5th this year) also tends to be less crowded than later dates.
Online ticket purchases will require that you print out your tickets at home. Proof of military status and 21+ age to participate in the Pub Crawl must be shown at the Fair. Parking at the Sarasota Medieval Fair is FREE.
Plan Your Next Visit!
Are you ready for a medieval adventure during your next Florida vacation? Browse our selection of stunning vacation properties and begin planning your visit today!
Stay with Lido Key Vacations
If the Medieval Fair, Sarasota is one of the main reasons you’ll be in the area in Fall 2023, be sure to secure accommodations close to the action by choosing a custom vacation home or condo from Lido Key Vacations.
From 1-2 bedroom homes in Lido Key and condos to gorgeous 7-10 bedroom homes sleeping up to 16 guests, you’ll find all the comfort and convenience you’ll need when you select any of these accommodations.
Lido Key Vacations’ rentals offer complete kitchens, spacious beds, big-screen TVs, free WiFi, laundry facilities, and beach gear. You’re just steps from the beach!
Discover additional luxuries like rooftop decks, hot tubs, screened lanais, private pools, and 2-3 car garages. Plus, dedicated property managers ensure your needs are always met.
Pets are welcome in some accommodations, so extend the invite to your furry family members and browse our Lido Key pet-friendly vacation rental options today! Rest easy with our enhanced cleaning measures, including mid-stay cleanings, eco-safe sprays, and an expanded checklist for your safety and peace of mind.
Featured Rentals

Lucky in Lido
Embark on your dream luxury vacation at Lucky in Lido, a brand-new home boasting Gulf views from its rooftop deck and a stunning backyard featuring a hot tub, pool with waterslide, and ample lounge space. |
Manatee Cove
A waterfront retreat boasting four bedrooms and five bathrooms alongside a spectacular backyard featuring a private pool, canal access, and a putting green. Inside, enjoy the beach-inspired ambiance with vaulted ceilings, natural colors, and an open layout flooded with natural light. |
