You’ve gathered your friends. You’ve booked a hotel in Gilroy, CA. Now, all you have to do is find the perfect garb to wear for the annual Northern California Renaissance Faire.
To help you prepare for this year’s event, check out some popular costume ideas that are perfect for the occasion.
1. A Court Jester
Make your experience more entertaining by dressing as an Elizabethan-era court jester. Experiment with vibrant colors to make your outfit stand out among the crowd. You can even don a playful mask to round out the ensemble.
2. A Village Washer
If you’re looking for some historical costume inspiration and want to fit in with some of the guilds in attendance, consider a village washer look. Peasant women of the 16th century would don long dresses with aprons and bonnets while doing laundry in the town square.
3. A Valiant Knight
There’s no shortage of knights at the Renaissance Faire in NorCal. A popular choice among male attendees, the knight costume features plenty of armor. Don’t forget a sword and shield before setting off!
4. A Tavern Goer
Medieval outfit ideas don’t have to focus on nobility. If you want to adopt a more casual persona, you can’t go wrong with dressing as a local tavern goer. Pair a long-sleeve linen shirt with a striking vest, dark pants, and boots.
Toast to the others with a classic mug or goblet, which completes the look.
5. A Barmaid
NorCal Renaissance Faire attire for women can be both playful and historically accurate. The barmaid costume remains one of the most popular outfits. These costumes can be more revealing than others, as they typically feature a corset dress with an off-the-shoulder look.
6. The Town Crier
Classic costumes focus on important roles held throughout medieval times. One of the most essential figures was the town crier. To dress like one, you’ll need plenty of layers in bold colors like red or blue.
Crucial accessories include a bell to grab people’s attention and a scroll to read from.
7. Robin Hood
You can usually spot a few people at the NorCal Renaissance Faire who take their inspiration from Robin Hood. The famed character is known for his simple attire of boots, a hooded cape, and, of course, a bow and arrow.
8. A Pirate
Pirate costumes aren’t off limits at this annual gathering. Both men and women could show up in pirate garb, including a signature hat.
9. A Royal
Many attendees of the Renaissance Faire in NorCal prefer the royal treatment. Men could take inspiration from King Arthur, women may emulate Queen Elizabeth, and even the youngest attendees could dress as princes and princesses.
Embody your persona with a cloak and crown. You’ll turn heads and be one of the most powerful figures at the event.
10. A Mythical Creature
One of the best things about the Northern California Renaissance Faire is how it embraces fantasy. Fairy, mermaid, elf, and even dragon costumes are all fair game. Just make sure your costume matches the theme for whichever weekend you attend.
Stay Close to the Excitement at Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn
One of the hardest parts of preparing for the Renaissance Faire in NorCal is figuring out what to wear. Use this guide as inspiration and check out what to expect from this major medieval festival.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn, a top-rated hotel in Gilroy, to be close to all the action. Reserve a room online or call (408) 848-5144 for more information.