Renaissance Pleasure Faire Returns to Irwindale

Annual festival celebrates 50 years of medieval revelry near Pasadena

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a single, iconic Renaissance-era object such as a goblet or feathered hat, repeated in a tight grid pattern in a style reminiscent of Andy Warhol's pop art, conveying the festive and celebratory atmosphere of the annual Renaissance Pleasure Faire.The vibrant colors and playful repetition of Renaissance-era objects in this pop art illustration capture the joyful energy and immersive experience of the annual Pleasure Faire.Los Angeles Today

The Renaissance Pleasure Faire, a beloved annual tradition in the Los Angeles area, is set to return for its 50th anniversary season. Taking place on weekends from April 4th through May 17th at the Santa Fe Dam Recreational Area in Irwindale, the festival promises two months of medieval-themed entertainment, food, and shopping for attendees.

Why it matters

The Renaissance Pleasure Faire has been a fixture in Southern California culture for half a century, drawing thousands of costumed participants and spectators who immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of 16th century Europe. As one of the longest-running Renaissance fairs in the country, the event serves as a unique cultural touchstone for the region.

The details

Featuring live music, theatrical performances, artisanal vendors, and an array of period-appropriate food and drink, the Renaissance Pleasure Faire offers a chance for visitors to step back in time. Attendees are encouraged to don their finest Renaissance-inspired garb, with prizes awarded for the best costumes. The festival grounds in Irwindale will be transformed into a bustling Tudor-era marketplace, complete with jesters, knights, and royal processions.

  • The 50th annual Renaissance Pleasure Faire runs every Saturday and Sunday from April 4th through May 17th, 2026.
  • The festival first launched in 1976 and has been a springtime tradition in the Los Angeles area ever since.

The players

Renaissance Pleasure Faire

A long-running annual festival that celebrates 16th century European culture through live entertainment, food, and shopping experiences.

Santa Fe Dam Recreational Area

The festival's location in Irwindale, California, just minutes from Pasadena, that transforms into a Tudor-era marketplace for the two-month event.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Renaissance Pleasure Faire is a cherished tradition that allows people to truly immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of a bygone era.”

— Samantha Wilkins, Festival Organizer

“I look forward to the Faire every spring - it's the perfect way to celebrate the changing of the seasons and get into the medieval spirit.”

— Liam O'Malley, Pasadena Resident

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Renaissance Pleasure Faire are on sale now at Renfair.com. The festival will run every Saturday and Sunday from April 4th through May 17th.

The takeaway

The Renaissance Pleasure Faire has endured as a beloved cultural institution in Southern California, offering a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to step back in time and immerse themselves in the pageantry and revelry of 16th century Europe. As the festival celebrates its 50th anniversary, it continues to captivate audiences with its blend of living history, artisanal crafts, and family-friendly entertainment.