The Grand Gathering of Hynafol 2026

The Grand Gathering of Hynafol takes place on November 8–15, 2026, at Sherwood Forest Faire in McDade, Texas. This medieval fantasy event centers on live-action roleplaying, with participants creating characters, joining quests, forming alliances, and taking part in an ongoing Arthurian-inspired story.

A Medieval Fantasy World Shaped by Its Players

Hynafol offers several ways to participate: combat, diplomacy, trading, crafting, performance, and social roleplay. Players can choose among five Courts—Valor, Ambition, Knowledge, Power, and Chaos—and develop their characters through encounters with other participants.

Newcomers do not need acting experience or a finished character history. Combat is optional, and noncombat roles provide other ways to contribute to the shared story.

Dates and Arrival Times

All times are local Central Time.

• General Admission: November 8–15, with arrival from 9:00 AM on Sunday, November 8.
• Weekend Pass: November 13–15, with arrival from 9:00 AM on Friday.
• Spectator Day: Saturday, November 14, 9:00 AM–11:00 PM.
• Departure: All guests must leave by 3:00 PM on Sunday, November 15.

Tickets and Accommodation Packages

• General Admission: Full-event access and camping outside the Village. Bring your own tent, equipment, and food.
• Weekend Pass: Closing-weekend access with camping outside the Village.
• Immersive Package: Full-event admission, shared medieval tent accommodation in the Village, and two catered meals daily.
• House Package: Full-event admission, shared tent accommodation, breakfast and dinner, House membership, and guidance from experienced leaders.
• Grand House: Extended access from November 6–15, furnished accommodation, three meals daily, guided participation, and scheduled round-trip airport transportation.
• Spectator Day: Saturday access to viewing areas, merchants, taverns, and noncombat activities. Overnight stays are not included.

Compare availability and book through the official Grand Gathering ticket and package page.

Evening Entertainment

• Sunday, November 8: Thee Hobo Gobbelins.
• Monday, November 9: Hynafol Bards.
• Tuesday, November 10: Hynafol Bards.
• Wednesday, November 11: The Yokes and Carnival of Sound Trio.
• Thursday, November 12: Hynafol Bards.
• Friday, November 13: Hynafol Bards.
• Saturday, November 14: Hynafol Bards Extravaganza.

Costumes and Participation Requirements

Medieval or fantasy clothing is required, including for Spectator Day visitors. Spectator tickets do not permit everyday street clothing or overnight camping.

Adults joining combat must complete the required training. Participants under 18 must remain with a parent or guardian and cannot join battlefield battles, skirmishes, or tournaments.

For other events around the state, explore our guide to Renaissance and medieval festivals in Texas.

From the First Gathering to an Ongoing Community

Hynafol began in 2022 with 190 participants at its first Grand Gathering. Attendance reached 690 in 2025. The annual gathering has developed alongside a year-round community whose characters, relationships, and stories continue between events.

Venue and Approximate Road Distances

The venue is Sherwood Forest Faire, 1883 Old Highway 20, McDade, Texas 78650. Check-in begins at the front gate.

Approximate driving distances to McDade vary by route and starting point:

• Bastrop: 15 mi.
• Austin: 35 mi.
• Round Rock: 40 mi.
• College Station: 75 mi.
• San Antonio: 120 mi.
• Houston: 130 mi.

Find additional autumn dates in our calendar of Renaissance faires and medieval festivals in November 2026.