The Annual Festival Returns!
The 2015 Michigan Renaissance Festival once again sends guests back to the 16th century. This is that one time of year where southeast Michigan residents can dress up as elves, knights, faeries, and princesses and go to the Village of Hollygrove. This made-up land, on the border of Holly and Groveland Township, is ready to go with new attractions and returning favorites.
The Queen Knights this Little Lady at the Michigan Renaissance Festival – photo by Michael Dwyer
Beat the crowds and arrive early, they open at 10:00 a.m. with free parking. Upon entering the gates, you will be handed a program of the day’s events. Check the times and locations of the shows you want to see and then set off to explore the 15-acres of entertainment, shops, and food.
Favorite Stage Shows!
Returning to the seventeen stages scattered throughout the annual village will be The Ded Bob Sho, Tartanic, Washing Well Wenches, The Tortuga Twins, Bocca Musica, and more. Stage shows run several times per day – most are suitable for all ages – some are for adults only.
While the festival always has a joust, Noble Cause is a new production this year. Knights in shining armor, ladies in majestic gowns, the grandeur of colorful warhorses, all the pomp and pageantry that has thrilled imaginations for five hundred years!
Eat, Drink, and Relax
The Princess Court – Photo by Michael Dwyer
Many food and drink items are available. Most liked are the turkey drumsticks cooked over an open flame and the soup in a bread bowl. If you like Celtic music and better beer, stop at the Guinness Pub. It’s located in the center of the village behind the castle and it is the local hot spot of the festival grounds. Relax, take a break from the sun and enjoy the sounds of the many musicians scheduled at the pub. If the beverages catch up with you, the restrooms are called “Privies,” and are available in several spots around the festival grounds.
Between stage shows, you may pass time by visiting the nearly 200 merchants. All sorts of wonderful items are available including renaissance period merchandise. There is clothing, jewelry, crafts and even swords for sale.
Nycki Eschenburg from Grosse Pointe Farms gets her palm read at the Michigan Renaissance Festival – photo by Michael Dwyer
For a more interactive experience with the festival, you may want to have your hair breaded, get a Henna tattoo, have your face painted, enjoy a message, or have your palm read.
Shaded by large trees with a castle-themed play structure, the “Children’s Realm” offers free activities for younger visitors. More active festival goers may hop on one of the human-powered rides or visit the games area.
Themed Weekends
The festival runs for seven weekends (including Labor Day & Festival Friday) and offers a different theme each weekend. Open 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. Rain or Shine. Free Parking. Here is full list of the themed weekends and dates, Huzzah!
- Royal Pet and Ale Festival: August 22 and 23
- Highland Fling: August 29 and 30
- High Seas Adventure: Sept. 5, 6, & 7 (Labor Day)
- Wonders of the World: September 12 and 13
- Shamrocks and Shenanigans: September 19 and 20
- Harvest Huzzah: September 26 and 27
- Sweet Endings: October 2 (Festival Friday), 3 & 4
Plan Your Visit
Themed Weekends for the 2015 Michigan Renaissance Festival
Tickets are available at the discounted price of $18.95 (adults) in advance or at the gate for $21.95.
WEB SITE: www.michrenfest.com PHONE: 800-601-4848 LOCATION: The village of “Hollygrove” is located in Holly, Michigan Dixie Highway between Pontiac and Flint I-75 Grand Blanc exit 106 Follow the signs
Want More?
Halloween in Hollygrove takes over when the regular run of the festival dies out. Weekends from October 10 to November 1 provide a seriously scary option for those who love the Halloween season.
About Michael Dwyer