Borderlands Renaissance Faire 2026

Borderlands Renaissance Faire 2026 takes place on November 7–8, 2026, at Ascarate Park in El Paso, Texas. Historical swordplay meets fae folklore during a weekend of live entertainment, artisan shopping, quests, and roleplay. The faire grounds are located by the park’s Pavilion.

Dates, Hours, and Admission

General admission hours are 11 AM–6 PM on Saturday and Sunday. VIP ticket holders can enter at 10 AM.

• Single-day general admission: $25 plus fees.
• Two-day general admission: $40 plus fees.
• Saturday VIP: $45 plus fees — sold out.
• Sunday VIP: $40 plus fees.
• Children ages 8 and under: free admission.

VIP admission includes early entry, access to an exclusive quest and story experience during the early-access period, commemorative items, and an indoor lounge with air-conditioned seating and restrooms. Same-day reentry is available with a hand stamp.

Purchase Borderlands Renaissance Faire tickets.

Three Realms of History and Fantasy

The faire’s setting brings together three distinct realms: The Mortal Outpost, centered on human craftsmanship and food; The Seelie Grove, home to the light fae; and The Shadow Court, inspired by darker Unseelie folklore.

Entertainment takes place at The High Stage, while The Courtly Procession introduces visitors to royalty from the three realms. Quests and roleplay invite guests to participate in the setting rather than simply watch it unfold.

Swordplay, Artisans, and Food

Historical European Martial Arts demonstrations and choreographed bouts showcase swordsmanship. The artisan area, named The Night Market, brings together makers and merchants, with vendors including Cottonwood Leather Studio, Blue Horse Ceramics, Dragonfly Pottery, and Elven Eleven Art & Jewelry.

Food and drink are part of The Feast of Fools. Offerings include turkey legs, mead, craft beer, ale, and wine, alongside food vendors such as Chuco Street Tacos and Metal Beard BBQ.

The Story Behind the Faire

Founders Zach Chenoweth and Elisabeth Gaytan, introduced as Sunstone and Steel, created the event to bring a darker interpretation of fae folklore to the El Paso borderlands. Their interests in historical recreation, martial arts, and the outdoors shape its atmosphere. Chenoweth’s background as a fencing coach helps connect the fantasy setting with historical combat traditions.

Planning Your Visit

Costumes are encouraged but optional. The event welcomes families, although its darker fae themes create a PG-13 atmosphere. Period weapons must remain sheathed and secured at the entrance, and props are subject to inspection.

Bring some cash: many vendors accept cards, but there are no ATMs onsite. Pets are not permitted; service animals are welcome. Each visitor may bring one sealed water bottle of up to 24 ounces, but other outside food and drinks are prohibited. Strollers and carts are allowed.

For more seasonal outings, explore other Renaissance and medieval festivals in Texas and events taking place in November 2026.

Location and Driving Distances

Ascarate Park is located at 6900 Delta Drive, El Paso, TX 79905. Head toward the Pavilion area for the faire.

Approximate driving distances to El Paso from nearby cities are listed below. The final distance to the park varies with your starting point and route.

• Las Cruces, New Mexico: 45 miles.
• Alamogordo, New Mexico: 85 miles.
• Deming, New Mexico: 100 miles.
• Ruidoso, New Mexico: 135 miles.
• Silver City, New Mexico: 155 miles.
• Carlsbad, New Mexico: 170 miles.