The first thing I noticed wasn’t the knights or the jousting arena. It was the feeling that we’d somehow wandered into another world.
Tucked among the trees in Rock Creek, Ohio, just off state route 534, the Great Lakes Medieval Faire feels less like a festival and more like a hidden village. As we walked the shaded woodland paths, the adventure took us past musicians and costumed performers. Knights battled for glory, and fairies, pirates, and royalty mingled with visitors.
As locals, we’ve visited the Great Lakes Medieval Faire several times during various themed weekends, and each trip has felt completely different. My boys proudly dressed as pirates for Pirate Weekend, fully embracing their roles. Another visit coincided with Superheroes Weekend, when my mom joined us, and the grounds filled with caped crusaders alongside medieval characters. No matter when you visit, there always seems to be something new around every corner.
NO TIME TO READ THIS ARTICLE NOW? PIN IT OR BOOKMARK IT FOR LATER!
What is the Great Lakes Medieval Faire?
Each summer, on Saturdays and Sundays through July and August, the Great Lakes Medieval Fair transforms a wooded property into the fictional 13th-century village of Avaloch. Visitors are encouraged to become part of the story as they enjoy live performances, watch jousting tournaments, interact with hundreds of costumed characters, and, of course, explore artisan shops.
Hidden beneath the trees of Northeast Ohio, the Great Lakes Medieval Faire transforms an ordinary summer day into an unforgettable family adventure.
Photo Credit: Aimee Mallory
The wooded setting provides tons of shade, which is really appreciated during Ohio’s summers. It also helps create an immersive atmosphere, where families feel removed from the modern world.
DON’T MISS! Incredible Family Fun in the Outer Banks
Themed Weekends Make Every Visit Different
Pirate Weekend was an instant favorite with my boys, who happily traded everyday clothes for swords, treasure hunts, and a little friendly swashbuckling.
Photo Credit: Aimee Mallory
This Faire keeps families coming back, especially since the rotating schedule of themed weekends makes it easy to find new experiences. Popular themes include:
- Pirates
- Mythical Beasts & Pet Parade
- Pirates & Princesses
- Superheroes
- Barbarians & Gamers
- Celtic Celebrations
With a new theme each weekend of the summer, no two visits feel the same. My boys still talk about the first time they participated in Pirate Weekend, when they spent the day carrying toy swords, meeting fellow pirates, and searching for treasure throughout the village – they even participated in a pirate battle!
Entertainment at the Great Lakes Medieval Faire
The jousting tournament is the headline attraction, but there are plenty of magical moments away from the arena. Throughout the day, musicians, comedians, storytellers, and specialty performers bring the village to life. It’s easy to find yourself stopping to watch performances you didn’t plan on seeing. You might even find a new favorite character as you explore the legends of the land!
Some of our favorite moments happened between the scheduled events, thanks to the talented performers throughout the village.
Photo Credit: Great Lakes Medieval Faire
One performer, Gnoble the Gnome, has a storytelling hour deep in the woods. My mom, an author herself, wrote an original story for Gnoble that you can’t hear anywhere but the Great Lakes Medieval Faire.
Some stories can only be heard in Avaloch—including one written by my mom exclusively for Gnoble the Gnome.
Photo Credit: Great Lakes Medieval Faire
The performers are so much more than actors. They’re often part strategist, part storyteller, drawing visitors into the ongoing narrative of Avaloch that has developed over the years.
You never quite know who you’ll meet in Avaloch—even superheroes stop by from time to time.
Photo Credit: Aimee Mallory
Shopping in Avoloch
Even visitors who aren’t interested in shopping often find themselves with a treasure or two. The marketplace features artisans selling everything from leather goods and swords to handmade pottery and fantasy-inspired accessories and jewelry.
Many of the artisans create their work by hand, making every purchase feel a little more meaningful.
Photo Credit: Aimee Mallory
My favorite souvenirs I bought there are a pair of “fairy-wing” earrings. I still wear them when I’m feeling a little whimsical, and when I do, they remind me of wandering through the forest paths of Avaloch.
Shopping also feels really personal here. Many of the vendors create their own products and are happy to talk about their craft.
A small keepsake, a big memory. These fairy-wing earrings have become one of my favorite reminders of the Great Lakes Medieval Faire.
Photo Credit: Samantha Davis
Foods to Try at Great Lakes Medieval Faire
No visit is complete without sampling festival food (a real royal treat!). Giant turkey legs are, of course, one of the most iconic choices, but visitors will also find Scotch eggs, pastries, roasted meats, and other Renaissance-faire favorites. Fresh-squeezed lemonade and ale are also popular.
Turkey legs may steal the spotlight, but there’s no shortage of delicious Renaissance-inspired treats throughout the village.
Photo Credit: Great Lakes Medieval Faire
One of our favorite traditions is simply grabbing lunch and finding a shady spot to sit. Watching knights, fairies, pirates, and villagers pass by is entertainment in itself.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Leave room in your schedule for unexpected performances, hidden paths, and spontaneous adventures.
Photo Credit: Aimee Mallory
- Wear comfortable shoes. Most paths are gravel, dirt, or woodland trails.
- Arrive early, especially on popular weekends. It can get crowded, and there is a lot to experience.
- Bring a refillable water bottle to save money on drinks.
- Don’t be afraid to dress up. Even simple costumes make the experience more fun.
- Leave extra time for exploring. Some of the best moments happen when you wander without a plan.
Other Fun Things to Do in Northeast Ohio
Even though you could easily spend a whole weekend getaway at the faire, it’s also very easy to fit into a larger Northeast Ohio adventure, visiting major attractions in the area.
Geneva-on-the-Lake
Considered Ohio’s first summer resort town, Geneva-on-the-Lake offers arcades, lakefront dining, mini golf, and old-fashioned family fun. Staples like fresh lemonade and Eddie’s Grill are something my family has enjoyed since I was a kid!
Geneva State Park
Geneva State Park in Ashtabula County is full of outdoor fun, including hiking trails, beaches, fishing, and beautiful Lake Erie sunsets. Ohio’s wine country is also next door, for parents traveling with older children.
DON’T MISS! A Local’s Guide to Lake Erie’s Beaches
Lake Metroparks Farmpark
Lake Metroparks Farmpark is perfect for families with younger kids and is another of our family favorites. Kids can milk cows, ride wagons, meet farm animals, and learn about agriculture through hands-on activities.
Holden Arboretum
Holden Arboretum is one of the largest in the United States. Families will love the March Canopy Walk and Kalberer Emergent tower, which lets you climb above the trees for incredible views. It’s educational, without feeling like a museum.
When You Go
Where to Stay Near the Great Lakes Medieval Faire
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Ashatabula is just 9.5 miles away in Austinburg. It’s highly rated and accessible, plus it includes breakfast and free onsite parking.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ashtabula-Geneva is about 10 miles away. Families will enjoy quiet rooms, an indoor pool, plus the opportunity to explore nearby local wineries.
If camping is more the vibe, Hidden Lakes Family Campground is just 15 minutes from the faire and is highly recommended by attendees. They offer electric sites, hot showers, an outdoor pool, a camp store, grills, and a playground.
Traveling to the Great Lakes Medieval Fair from Los Angeles
The easiest airport for Los Angeles families visiting the Great Lakes Medieval Faire is Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Cleveland is about an hour west of the faire, making it the most convenient option for travelers flying into Northeast Ohio.
Several airlines offer service between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Cleveland, including nonstop flights on American Airlines and United Airlines. Direct flights typically take between 4.5 and 5.5 hours, making Northeast Ohio surprisingly accessible from Southern California. You’ll also want to rent a car!
An excellent discount site for rental cars and flights is Booking! We’ve literally saved hundreds of dollars using it.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Great Lakes Medieval Faire
When is the Great Lakes Medieval Faire?
The 2026 season runs weekends from July 11th through August 23rd, open Saturdays and Sundays only. Gates open at 11 a.m. and close at 7 p.m., with opening ceremonies at 10:45 a.m. and a Finale in Song at 6:15 p.m. The faire is open rain or shine. It’s located in Rock Creek, Ohio, just off State Route 534.
How much are tickets to the Great Lakes Medieval Faire?
Front-gate admission is $25 for adults (13 and up) and $5 for children (5-12). A weekend pass is $35, an adult season pass is $100, and a child season pass is $25. Military, first responders, and seniors (60 and over) pay $19. Discounted pre-season tickets are offered through the faire’s email newsletter, and prices are subject to change.
Is the Great Lakes Medieval Faire good for kids?
Yes, it’s very family-friendly. Kids can dress up, join themed-weekend activities like Pirate Weekend treasure hunts, watch jousting tournaments, meet costumed characters, and hear storytelling in the woods. The shaded woodland setting provides plenty of shade, which is appreciated during Ohio’s summers and helps create an immersive atmosphere.
What are the themed weekends at the Great Lakes Medieval Faire?
Popular themes include Pirates, Mythical Beasts & Pet Parade, Pirates & Princesses, Superheroes, Barbarians & Gamers, and Celtic Celebrations. Because each weekend has its own theme, no two visits feel the same.
Are pets allowed at the Great Lakes Medieval Faire?
Yes, pets are permitted on leashes. A pet registration form must be completed at the gate, and a $5 fee per animal applies. Animals can’t be taken near any animal exhibits, including the Joust and the Birds of Prey, and may not be left in the parking lot or in vehicles.
How much is parking at the Great Lakes Medieval Faire?
Parking is a small $5 fee, with handicap parking available near the front gate for those with a marker present.
Can I bring a cooler to the Great Lakes Medieval Faire?
Coolers must be kept in your car, but you can leave and re-enter the faire with a hand stamp.
What food is there at the Great Lakes Medieval Faire?
Festival favorites include giant turkey legs, Scotch eggs, pastries, roasted meats, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and ale. Many families grab lunch and find a shady spot to watch the characters pass by.
What should first-time visitors to the Great Lakes Medieval Faire know?
Wear comfortable shoes, since the paths are gravel, dirt, and woodland trails. Arrive early on popular weekends, bring a refillable water bottle, consider dressing up, and leave time to wander, since some of the best moments are unplanned.
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, PLEASE CONSIDER PINNING IT OR SHARING IT!
