You’re planning your medieval festival adventure and wondering what culinary delights await you at this historic celebration. When staying at comfortable hotels in the Gilroy area for the Renaissance Faire in NorCal, you’ll discover an incredible array of authentic period foods and beverages that transport you back to Elizabethan times. This enchanting festival runs from September 13th through October 19th, 2025, on weekends, offering visitors a chance to feast like royalty while enjoying world-class entertainment.
In this guide, Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn will dive into the Northern California Renaissance Faire, highlighting the must-try food and drink options that make this medieval experience truly unforgettable.
Traditional Renaissance Foods and Modern Festival Fare
The festival features a diverse mix of traditional Renaissance-style cuisine and contemporary fare throughout the grounds. Food and drink vendors are located in the Food Court near the front gate, areas near the Joust, in the Enchanted Garden, and in Trader’s Market. Essential experiences include turkey legs, Bangers & Brats with sautéed onions and peppers, and tri-tip sandwiches.
Five Distinguished Ale Stands Throughout the Festival Grounds
The festival features five unique ale stands, each offering distinct atmospheres and specialty beverages. The rusty cutlass in the Food Court provides convenient refreshment where pirates and saucy wenches serve guests.
Château d’If, located next to the Joust, specializes in ales, ciders, meads, and specialty drinks. The Keepe in the Enchanted Garden offers a magical collection of cold beverages, while Bell & Compass, past the main stage, serves as a mercenary-run pub full of fine ale.
Draft Beers, Ciders, and Medieval Beverages
Each ale stand offers draft beers and select microbrews alongside a fine variety of ciders, ales, and meads that transport you to medieval times. You can also enjoy fountain sodas, including Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Sierra Mist, and Mug Root Beer. Additional beverage options include Tropicana Pink Lemonade, Lipton Unsweetened Tea, and Arrowhead Water for those preferring non-alcoholic refreshments.
Live Entertainment Dining and Special Experiences
While enjoying your medieval feast, live entertainment surrounds you throughout the festival grounds. The highlight dining experience is tea with the Queen, hosted daily at 4:00 p.m. by the Guild of St. Cuthbert.
Sweet Treats and Specialty Foods Throughout the Grounds
The festival caters to every craving with diverse food vendors offering a wide range of unique specialties. Anniecakes offers cupcakes in flavors such as chocolate, red velvet, and lemon, as well as brownies. You’ll also find cinnamon buns with cream cheese glaze and gelato flavors like double chocolate and Tahitian vanilla.
Hearty Medieval Marketplace Meals and Artisan Crafts
The Medieval marketplace combines food vendors with authentic dining experiences. Roast Chicken & Artichokes offers chicken thighs and bacon-wrapped jalapenos, while Taste of Spain provides freshly made tacos and burritos. Trattoria di Stromboli serves meat and vegetarian pizzas.
Jousting Tournament Dining and Festival Strategy
Food vendors are strategically located near the Joust area, allowing you to enjoy authentic medieval fare while watching jousting tournament competitions. The festival’s layout lets you easily sample different vendors from the Food Court to the Enchanted Garden.
Experience Authentic Medieval Cuisine With Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn
The Renaissance Faire in NorCal offers an unparalleled culinary journey through medieval times, featuring traditional foods, specialty beverages, and unique dining experiences, such as tea with the Queen. Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn provides comfortable accommodations and exceptional service that make your festival weekend truly special. Our hotel features modern amenities and exceptional hospitality, making us the ideal option when choosing the best hotels for your medieval adventure.
Call Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn at (408) 848-5144 to book your stay for the Northern California Renaissance Faire.