So, you love Renaissance fairs — the lively music, the quirky games, the amazing food, and of course, the chance to step back in time. But getting your friends as excited as you are? That can be a whole different quest. Especially when it comes to dressing up. If you’ve been there, you know convincing friends to join in costume can feel like convincing a knight to give up their sword. Don’t worry — this post is here to help you turn your pals into full-on Renaissance fair enthusiasts, costumes and all. By the end, you’ll have practical tips to make it fun, easy, and something they’ll actually look forward to.
Understand Your Friends’ Hesitations
First things first — not everyone is ready to jump into a corset or chainmail without a bit of hesitation. Some friends might worry about costume costs, others might feel unsure about what to wear, and some simply don’t want to stand out in a crowd. It’s important to understand where they’re coming from. Instead of pushing, take time to listen and empathise with their concerns. When you acknowledge these feelings, you show that their comfort matters, and that can open the door to getting them on board.
Highlight the Fun and Unique Experience
Next up, remind them why Renaissance fairs are such a blast! Beyond the costumes, it’s an immersive experience with lively music, hilarious performances, tasty food (giant turkey legs, anyone?), and fun activities like archery or jousting. Let them know that dressing up isn’t just about looking the part — it’s about fully diving into the atmosphere and making the day unforgettable. Share stories or your own favourite memories where a costume turned a good day into a great one. Once they see what they’re missing, their interest will start to spark.
Start with Low-Commitment Costume Ideas
The thought of a full medieval outfit can be intimidating, so help them start small. Suggest easy, affordable costume options that don’t require a huge commitment — think simple tunics, capes, flower crowns, or even just a fun hat. Point them towards beginner-friendly DIY tutorials or local shops where costumes can be rented or bought at reasonable prices. Remind them that costumes don’t have to be perfect or authentic — mixing modern clothes with a few medieval accessories is a totally acceptable and comfortable way to join in the fun. Here’s some advice for fairgoers’ outfits.
Make It a Group Activity
Turning costume prep into a group affair can really boost enthusiasm. Propose a costume shopping trip or a crafting night where everyone can make their outfits together. You could even host a small pre-fair costume party where you all try on outfits, take silly photos, and get excited about the big day. Another great idea is to pick a group theme — maybe everyone dresses as knights, nobles, peasants, or even mythical creatures. Having a shared goal can make the whole process more enjoyable and less daunting for your friends.
Use Social Proof and Stories
Sometimes hearing from others can make a big difference. Share stories of people who were reluctant at first but ended up loving the Renaissance fair and the dressing-up experience. Show your friends social media posts or photos from groups who looked like they had a blast. When they see that dressing up is not just fun but also socially accepted and celebrated, it can nudge them from “maybe” to “definitely.”
Address Practical Concerns
Costumes don’t have to break the bank. Talk about budgeting ideas, like borrowing pieces from friends or thrifting, to make dressing up more affordable. Let your friends know that investing in costume elements can pay off long term — many pieces can be reused for Halloween, themed parties, or future fairs. Also, remind them that comfort matters. Encourage choosing breathable fabrics or comfortable footwear so the day stays fun, not painful.
Shopping for Renaissance Costumes Online? Here are Some Factors to Watch
Making purchases from new online stores carries certain risks. However, you need to do everything you can to avoid disappointment. For example, there are two issues that pop up a lot for those who want to dress up for a Renaissance fair. They purchase a costume online, and it either doesn’t look anything like the photos or the sizing is all wrong. Know that both of these situations can be avoided. Let’s take a look at some factors you should watch in order to get the perfect Renaissance costume online.
Examine the Sizing Guide
First, check out the sizing guide for your favorite costume. While you might always be a certain size, every company is slightly different when it comes to width and length. You want to ensure the perfect fit where you’re going to feel comfortable. It can also be beneficial to take new measurements of your body. Then, you can compare these to the sizing guide to ensure you’re not disappointed when the costume arrives.
Understand the Material
You can find the most fabulous outfit online. However, if it’s not made from high-quality materials, you’re going to feel uncomfortable wearing it. It could be itchy and irritating against the skin. It might be made from a non-breathable material and make you sweat. Either way, you’re not going to have the best time at the Renaissance fair. So, understand the material before you make a purchase to ensure you’re going to be cool, calm and collected.
Check the Shipping
Don’t forget to examine the shipping methods before checking out. You want to ensure that the outfit arrives before the event. This is particularly true if you’ve left your costume to the last minute.
Emphasise the Bonding and Memory-Making Aspect
One of the best parts about dressing up together is the bond it creates. When you all commit to the theme, it turns a regular day out into a shared adventure full of laughs, inside jokes, and memories that stick for years. Plus, Renaissance fairs are perfect for photo ops — your group will come home with some epic pictures to look back on. Highlighting this side of things helps your friends see it as more than just costumes, but as a way to strengthen your friendship.