Trip #1: Girls Day (+ Ryan)

We parked in the south lot, where the adventure already begins. Before the gates even come into view, you’re funneled down a long wooded stretch that feels more like a secret passageway than a parking path. It’s the perfect prelude—like the trees themselves know you’re stepping into another world.

Good Deeds = Free Fun

Arms full of canned goods, we donated five non-perishables to support homeless veterans. Not only does that feel good, but it scored us a free ticket. (Yes, a win for the soul and the wallet—my favorite combo.)

Suddenly, a Sea of Pirates, Fairies, and… Belle?!

The gates opened and BAM: we were swallowed into a tide of pirates, vikings, fairies, and Renaissance misfits of every flavor. Belle and the Beast even waltzed through like it was their casual weekend stroll. It was equal parts cosplay fever dream and chaotic storybook mash-up, and honestly? Perfection.

Window Shopping and Whimsy

We wandered past booths that smelled of leather and incense, glitter and woodsmoke. The girls lit up when they spotted the hand-painted parasols and fairy wings—instant enchantment. Somewhere between the jewelry stalls and crystal baubles, we stumbled into their wedding area, which is basically Pinterest meets Middle Ages. Cute pictures? Obviously.

Food Fit for Royalty (or Vikings)

What’s a Ren Fest day without turkey legs? Greasy, oversized, primal—just how they should be. We gnawed like queens who’d traded crowns for carnivore cred.

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Trip #2: Mommy + Daddy Date

The second time around, it was just me and Dave sneaking in a little date day. He scored himself a pirate jacket (very on-brand), while I… well, I scored battle wounds. Tripped over a tree root, busted both knees wide open. Not my most graceful moment, but hey, I commit to the medieval vibe—blood sacrifice and all.

I also picked up a beautiful hand-crafted bubble wand for the girls, and I can’t wait to take it to the bubble room at Impressions 5. Pure magic incoming.

Unfortunately, the skies turned gray and the rain rolled in, chilly enough to cut our date short. Still, a quick dip into the Ren Fest chaos—even soggy—was worth it.

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The Travel Details

Location: 12600 Dixie Hwy, Holly, MI 48442
When: Weekends, August 16 – September 28, 2025 (plus Labor Day & Festival Friday, Sept 26)
Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM, rain or shine
Themed Weekends: From Highland Fling to Viking Invasion to Sweet Endings, each weekend has its own flavor.
Special Fun: Daily jousts, artisan markets, live music, fairy wings for the littles, pub crawls for the grown-ups, and royal brunches if you’re feeling extra.

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Final Thoughts: Magic Twice Over

Between family fairy wings and a quickie pirate date, both trips proved what makes the Michigan Renaissance Festival so special: it’s messy, magical, and never the same twice. Next time, I’ll bring a corset and a first aid kit. 🏰✨