Tournament of the Castle Renaissance Faire 2026

The Tournament of the Castle Renaissance Faire returns to Bacon’s Castle in Surry, Virginia, on November 7–8, 2026. This second annual event combines a competitive armored-combat tournament with music, craft demonstrations and an artisan market across the historic property’s 40-acre grounds.

Dates and Opening Hours

• Saturday, November 7: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
• Sunday, November 8: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
• Address: Bacon’s Castle, 465 Bacon’s Castle Trail, Surry, VA 23883.

Armored Combat Tournament

The Tidewater Dogs of War host a Classic-level Buhurt International tournament alongside the faire. Local fighters and international teams compete in full armor, with the 2026 competition dedicated to team melees.

The tournament listing includes men’s and women’s divisions in 3-on-3, 5-on-5 and 12-on-12 combat. These group contests are the main sporting attraction of the weekend.

Entertainment, Crafts and Food

Visitors can watch musical performances, blacksmithing demonstrations, medieval-history presentations and puppet shows. An artisan market offers opportunities to browse handmade goods between performances and tournament rounds.

Food trucks provide meals, while beverage offerings include mead, craft beer and wine. Renaissance clothing is encouraged for visitors who want to dress for the occasion.

The event supports Preservation Virginia’s ongoing work at its six historic sites across the state.

Tickets and Admission Prices

Online purchase is required. Each ticket covers one day; visitors attending both days must purchase separate Saturday and Sunday tickets.

• Adults: $22.
• Military, seniors ages 60 and older, and AAA: $20.
• Preservation Virginia members: $15.
• Students ages 12–18: $15.
• Children under 12: Free.

Book Saturday admission or Sunday admission through the official ticket service.

The faire runs rain or shine. Refunds are available only if Preservation Virginia cancels the event.

Parking and Visitor Information

On-site parking is free for ticket holders, with accessible spaces available. The grounds include grass, gravel and uneven surfaces. Accessible restrooms and a ramp to the building’s ground-floor exhibits and gift shop are provided.

Pets are not permitted; service animals are allowed. Outside food is restricted to medical needs. Each guest may bring one clear, factory-sealed water bottle. Weapons are prohibited, with exceptions for authorized participants.

Explore other Renaissance and medieval festivals in Virginia or browse the November 2026 event calendar for additional dates.

Approximate Road Distances to Surry

These distances refer to the town of Surry. The final drive to Bacon’s Castle varies with your route and starting point.

• Smithfield: approximately 18 miles.
• Hopewell: approximately 31 miles.
• Newport News: approximately 38 miles.
• Petersburg: approximately 39 miles.
• Norfolk: approximately 50 miles.
• Richmond: approximately 55 miles.

Find more events in the Renaissance faire directory.