Louisiana Renaissance Festival: Dates, ticket prices and themes

The Louisiana Renaissance Festival is in full swing, literally — there are daily sword fights on the sprawling grounds outside Hammond.

The big picture: The family-friendly festival, in the rustic, make-believe Village of Albright, is a fun day trip from New Orleans.

• It's every weekend in November and the first two weekends in December, rain or shine. Each weekend has a different theme.
• Gates open at 9:45am. It's good to arrive early to avoid the traffic jam that often builds up on the country roads leading to the festival.

How much: Tickets are $12 for children and $25 for adults in advance. They are more expensive at the gate and have sold out in the past.

• The ticket includes dozens of shows, like live jousting, falconry, sword swallowing, glass blowing, whip-cracking, juggling, belly dancing and plenty of music and comedy.
• Activities like archery and pony rides are extra.

Costumes: People dress up, but you don't have to.

• You can also buy a costume at the fest — wings, crowns, elf ears, swords, hats, corsets, kilts, parasols, jewelry and leather clothing.
• Wear comfortable shoes because the ground is dirt, and there's a lot of walking.

Parking: Parking is free this year, says RenFest spokesman Nick Gagliano.

• The parking lots are also bigger, which made things much smoother on opening weekend compared with last year, he said.

Food: Expect festival food with a medieval twist, such as turkey legs, mermaid donuts, mead, deep fried pickles, chicken nuggets, funnel cakes, butterbeer and kettle corn.

• Most of the 30+ vendors take cards, but bringing cash is a good idea.

💭 Carlie's thought bubble: This festival is so much fun. They do a terrific job of immersing you in a 16th century village in the woods.

• Pro tip: Bring hand sanitizer and extra toilet paper for the porta potties.

Go deeper:

• See the full schedule
• More things to do in New Orleans metro