Hear ye, hear ye. The time has come for the annual Carolina Renaissance Festival, kicking off Saturday, Oct. 5 through Nov. 24.

City Editor Maria, here. This is one of my favorite events in the Charlotte area and this is just a taste of what to expect.

Jousting is one of the most-attended events at the annual festival, drawing fans of all ages to the outdoor arena. | Photo via Carolina Renaissance Festival

Plan your trip

When walking into "Fairhaven," guests can rent a full costume for the day. Don't worry, it's not required.

Fairhaven boasts 16 stages with continuous music, dance, comedy, and circus shows, including jousting and the Birds of Prey exhibition.

New this year, guests can learn the travels of Princesses Sofia and Catalina, the daughters of the village's queen + experience a witch trial with a comedic twist.

Within the 245-acre village, 140+ vendors and artisans provide jewelry, handmade candles, toys, ornaments, and more.

Pro tip: Candle-making and glass blowing demonstrations are frequent so take a few minutes to watch the masters at work.

Looking for something more hands-on? Guests can attempt to "storm the castle" during a paintball battle, throw tomatoes at insulting fools, or try archery and axe throwing.

Worked up an appetite? No RenFest is complete without a giant turkey leg. The festival also sells beer, mead, wine, cider, coffee, and dessert.

Glassblowing demonstrations are held every weekend during the festival's run. | Photo via Carolina Renaissance Festival

Themed weekends

Wizards & Revels Weekend, Oct. 12-13 (free child admission)
Deaf Awareness Day, Oct. 12
BrewFest Weekend, Oct. 19-20
Halloween Daze and Spooky Knights, Oct. 26-27 (free child admission)
Celtic Music Weekend, Nov. 2-3
Pirates' Christmas Weekend, Nov. 9-10
Time Travelers' Weekend, Nov. 16-17 (free child admission)

Tickets, parking, and a quick tip

Tickets sell out quickly so it's best to purchase them online or at local Harris Teeter stores. Keep in mind, tickets are date specific.

Adult 13 and up: $34
Children ages 5-12: $20
Under 4: free

There is ample free parking on site.

Pro tip: While many vendors accept card, it's a good idea to bring cash and skip the forming lines at the numerous ATMs.