Every year, the Doña Ana Arts Council’s Renaissance ArtsFaire transforms Young Park, in Las Cruces, into a magical realm where a medieval sensibility reigns throughout the entire weekend. Featuring the largest juried art show in Southern New Mexico, with over 150 artists, vendors, and food booths, the ArtsFaire offers unique treasures and a festive atmosphere for all. With the theme “Reimagining the Renaissance,” The 53rd Annual Renaissance Arts Faire promises to bring more time periods and multicultural representations to Young Park this year on November 2 & 3, 2024.
Enter a Magical Realm
Quality artists from across the country set up shop in the main art realm of the Renaissance ArtsFair, to sell original, handcrafted items, including jewelry, pottery and ceramics, photographs, leather goods, paintings and drawings, sculpture, toys, textiles and wood.
Traditional acts will still be seen this year, plus a wide range of musical performances and acts on The Main Stage, The Royal Courts, The Middle Eastern Village, The Children’s Realm, on the Jousting Field, and around the lake. The Doña Ana Arts Council is urging the community and visitors from afar to come again to Young Park in Las Cruces and participate in the celebration of knowledge, the arts, diversity, culture, and fun.
The Society for Creative Anachronism, The Order of Epona, Frosty Locks, and the Pied Piper Minstrels are just a few of the entertainers you’re likely to encounter on the green during the Renaissance ArtsFaire, along with Knights and Ladies strolling the pathways, mixing with squires and peasants alike. The Queen’s Court and The Crimson Bear Court offer looks into royal life of the period with many activities and performances, such as medieval “fashion shows,” Tapestries, and too many wondrous sights to mention.
Children can join in the Renaissance ArtsFaire fun in the Children’s Realm; shoot some arrows, feed the Potter’s Guild alligator, try the Knight’s Ring and Dragon Toss and make their own oddities of the past. Children and adults can also shop for bargains at the Peddler’s Market where young merchants sell their hand-made wares.
Magellan the Dragon is Back!
This year, the Doña Ana Arts Council presents a brand-new event, the first ever Renaissance ArtsFaire “Magellan” Fun Run. Be part of history in creating a community that thrives in the arts, by engaging in the art of physical activity to promote health and wellness. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this event is perfect for all fitness levels. Grab your friends, family, and let’s make some unforgettable memories together. Taking place Sunday morning, November 5, at 7 a.m., you can sign up for the event here.
Unfortunately, pets should stay home or with a trusted caretaker during the Renaissance ArtsFaire, because the walks, the entertainments, the arts, and the dining are all intended for only the human members of the family at this iconic event. Well behaved service dogs, however, are welcome.
About the Doña Ana Arts Council
The Doña Ana Arts Council supports and promotes the arts, both as a part of a thriving creative economy and as a source of community pride. It stands neutral to all societal and political issues, believing that a stance on neutrality has the power to enhance the quality of life and develop the culture, educational and economic growth of our diverse community. The Council aims to provide a relevant, equity-based, and socially-engaged space where artists can freely express their creativity without discrimination, advocating for the practice of tolerance in our community.
The hills of Young Park come alive in early November with the sights and sounds of revelry and anachronistic entertainment, at the longest running Renaissance Faire in the southwest. The 53rd Annual Renaissance ArtsFaire will present a cultural wonderland, Saturday, November 2, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday, November 3, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. For more information, visit the website.
Posted by LasCruces.com
