If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure on Florida’s Gulf Coast this fall, look no further than the Sarasota Medieval Fair 2026. Running every Saturday and Sunday from November 7 through December 6, 2026, this beloved annual event transforms the lush Woods of Mallaranny at Mallaranny Farms in Myakka City, Florida into a breathtaking medieval kingdom. Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for weekend fun, or simply someone who loves a good turkey leg and a cold ale, the Sarasota Medieval Fair is an experience you won’t want to miss.
A Grand Celebration: The 22nd Anniversary
This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the Sarasota Medieval Fair, and the organizers have pulled out all the stops to make it the most spectacular edition yet. The 2026 theme — Vikings vs. French at the Siege of Paris, 845 AD — sets the stage for an epic clash of cultures and warriors. With over 140 artisan shops, 14 performance stages, full-contact jousting tournaments, human combat chess matches, carnival rides, and a Children’s Realm packed with activities for the little ones, there is truly something for every member of the family. Gates open at 9:45 a.m. each day and the fair runs until 5:30 p.m., rain or shine.
Five Unique Themed Weekends You Won’t Want to Miss
One of the most exciting features of the 2026 Sarasota Medieval Fair is its five uniquely themed weekends, each offering a fresh and immersive experience. Weekend 1 (November 7–8) kicks things off with High Seas Weekend, celebrating Vikings, pirates, and fearless seafarers. Weekend 2 (November 14–15) brings Viking Invasion Weekend, where longships arrive and Norse warriors take center stage. Weekend 3 (November 21–22) transports visitors to the Scottish Highlands for a celebration of Celtic heritage, complete with tartan costumes and bagpipe imitations. Weekend 4 (November 28–29) dives into Mystical Realms, where elves, dragons, wizards, and fae folk roam the grounds. Finally, Weekend 5 (December 5–6) wraps up the season with a heartwarming Saint Nicholas Celebration, perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Each weekend features unique costume contests and special competitions, so no two visits are ever the same.
Exclusive New Experiences for 2026
The 2026 fair introduces several exciting new add-on experiences for those who want to go beyond the standard admission. The Feast of the Crown offers a lavish medieval banquet experience, while the Bards Brunch (available Sundays only) combines live entertainment with a delightful morning meal. Mead Tastings give visitors the chance to sample traditional honey wines, and The Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon — held exclusively on Friday, November 13 — promises a mysterious and theatrical evening unlike anything else at the fair. These special events require advance booking and are sure to sell out quickly, so plan ahead!
Important Ticketing Information: Buy in Advance!
New for 2026, all tickets are date-specific and daily attendance is limited to enhance the guest experience. This means that festival dates can reach capacity at any time, and once a date sells out, no additional tickets will be available until 1:30 p.m. as guests depart. Opening Weekend (November 7–8) features reduced ticket pricing, making it the perfect time to visit for first-timers looking for a great deal. Multi-day passes and season passes are also available for those who plan to attend multiple weekends. It is strongly recommended that you purchase your tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot at this incredible event.
Where Is the Sarasota Medieval Fair Located?
The Sarasota Medieval Fair is held at Mallaranny Farms — The Woods of Mallaranny — located on SR-70, approximately 13 miles east of I-75, just past Lakewood Ranch and across from Dakin Farms in Myakka City, Florida. The sprawling, wooded property provides a naturally immersive backdrop that makes the medieval setting feel completely authentic. Ample parking is available on-site, and the fair is easily accessible from Sarasota, Bradenton, and surrounding communities throughout the region.
Make a Weekend of It: Stay Near Sarasota and Bradenton
With five weekends of medieval magic to enjoy, why not make the most of your trip to the Sarasota area and turn it into a full vacation? The Gulf Coast of Florida offers some of the most stunning beaches, world-class dining, and vibrant cultural attractions in the entire country. Siesta Key, Anna Maria Island, and Longboat Key are all just a short drive away, offering pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear Gulf waters that are perfect for relaxing between fair days. If you’re planning to attend multiple weekends of the Sarasota Medieval Fair, staying in a vacation rental gives you the space, comfort, and flexibility that a hotel simply can’t match. Browse a wonderful selection of nearby vacation rental properties to find the perfect home base for your Gulf Coast adventure. From cozy beach cottages to spacious waterfront homes, there’s a rental to suit every group size and budget.
A Family Tradition Worth Starting
The Sarasota Medieval Fair has been a beloved community tradition for over two decades, drawing visitors from across Florida and beyond. Families return year after year to watch the jousting, browse the artisan marketplace, feast on giant turkey legs, and immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of a bygone era. The fair also serves as a fundraiser for multiple local non-profit organizations, meaning your ticket purchase directly benefits the Sarasota-Bradenton community. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, the 2026 Sarasota Medieval Fair promises memories that will last a lifetime. Mark your calendar, grab your costumes, and prepare to say “Huzzah!”
Plan Your Visit to the Sarasota Medieval Fair 2026
The Sarasota Medieval Fair runs every Saturday and Sunday from November 7 through December 6, 2026. Gates open at 9:45 a.m. and the fair closes at 5:30 p.m. The event is held rain or shine at Mallaranny Farms, The Woods of Mallaranny, on SR-70 approximately 13 miles east of I-75 in Myakka City, Florida. Tickets are date-specific and limited, so be sure to visit www.sarasotamedievalfair.com to purchase your tickets and explore all the special add-on experiences available this season. Don’t forget to check out our vacation rental listings to find the perfect place to stay while you explore everything the Sarasota and Bradenton area has to offer!
