Richmond Ren Faire:
Policies & Community Standards

Welcome to the Richmond Ren Faire! Please help us create a safe, fun, and family-friendly experience while respecting Dorey Park, neighboring communities, and all attendees.

1. Ticket Resale / Sold OUT.

  • Ticket Resale & Scam Warning

    Is the event sold out?
    Yes. Richmond Ren Faire is officially sold out for both days. Due to capacity limits and safety requirements, we are unable to release additional tickets. We also do not have a waitlist, offer tickets at the door, or allow date transfers at this time.

    Do you allow ticket resales?
    No. Tickets are not eligible for resale or transfer, and we do not authorize any third-party sales.

    Important Scam Warning:
    We’ve received thousands of inquiries, and unfortunately, nearly all tickets purchased through unofficial sources have been fraudulent. Our pages have also been inundated with fake accounts attempting to resell tickets.

    What happens if I buy from a third party?
    Fraudulent tickets will not be accepted at the gate, and entry will be denied.

    Our Recommendation:

    • Only purchase through official channels

    • Do not buy from strangers or social media comments/groups

    • Do not trust screenshots as proof

    PSA ‼️

    Please be cautious of scammers, we cannot stress this enough. We know many of you are hoping to attend, and we truly appreciate the excitement and support. If you weren’t able to secure tickets this time, we’d love to have you join us in the future. Stay tuned for next year’s Ren Faire, as well as additional events coming this summer and winter. To stay in the loop, follow us on Instagram (@rvarenfaire and @viragoalley) and join our mailing list.

2. Alcohol Restrictions

  • No outside alcohol is permitted at the Faire. Additionally, any alcohol purchased on Faire grounds may not be removed from the premises.

  • Individuals under 21 are not allowed to consume alcohol.

  • Anyone of legal drinking age who wishes to consume alcohol must wear a wristband, which can be obtained at the front gate upon showing valid ID.

  • Anyone found excessively intoxicated may be asked to leave for the safety and comfort of all attendees.

3. Tickets & Event Updates

  • Due to high ticket demand and potential Wi-Fi challenges at Dorey Park, tickets will NOT be sold at the door. 

  • We offered advance tickets only which have unfortunately sold out both days.

  • Make sure to have the QR code associated with your ticket purchase available and easily accessible to scan at the gate.

  • Cell service will be limited, so plan to have a screenshot or a printed copy just in case.

  • We highly encourage purchasing tickets in advance for all days.

  • To ensure a quality immersive experience for our patrons, we are operating under a set capacity.

  • Notifications of sell-outs will be made on our social media accounts. (This has already been done on numerous platforms)

  • Other purchases on site may be made with cash or card. We recommend having cash on hand.
    ATM machines will also be available on the premises if cash is needed.

  • To view the final site map, click here.

4. Proper Disposal & Leave No Trace

  • Use the trash and recycling receptacles provided.

  • Help us keep the park clean and beautiful.

  • Smoking is allowed only in designated areas; dispose of cigarette butts properly.

  • Do not pick plants or disturb wildlife.

  • Reusable water bottles and cups are encouraged.

5. Restrooms, Wash Stations & Water

  • Use only the designated porta-potties.

  • ADA-accessible restrooms are available.

  • Handwashing stations are provided.

  • Water refill stations are available, feel free to bring a reusable bottle.

  • Do not leave waste outside facilities.

6. No Harassment or Discrimination

  • Racism, sexism, homophobia, or any form of harassment or discrimination will not be tolerated.

  • Treat others with dignity, kindness, and respect.

  • Help create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for everyone.

7. Weapons Policy

The Richmond Ren Faire is committed to public safety.

Prohibited Weapons

  • No real weapons are allowed, including blades, firearms, explosives, or functional weapons.

  • Weapons purchased on site must remain in packaging until leaving the festival.

  • Functional sharp weapons may only be carried by pre-approved vendors or demonstrators.

Prop Weapons

  • Non-functional prop weapons (swords, daggers, axes, spears, bows, arrows, etc.) are allowed if approved.

  • Blunted practice or training weapons are permitted.

  • Toy weapons (wooden swords, shields, unstrung bows) are allowed at festival security’s discretion.

Handling & Safety (“Peace-Tying”)

  • All permitted prop weapons must be sheathed or secured (“peace-tied”) unless in an approved demonstration.

  • Foam, LARP, staffs, canes, or plastic weapons do not require sheaths.

  • Realistic weapons may not be carried in hand except during demonstrations.

  • Weapons must never be used in a threatening manner.

Enforcement

  • Guests not adhering to this policy may be refused entry or removed.

  • Festival security has final discretion regarding weapon handling or display.

8. Costumes

  • Help us keep the family-friendly fun going by dressing up in your favorite Renaissance era, Medieval, or fantasy attire.

  • COSTUME IS NOT CONSENT: always ask before touching or taking pictures of others.

  • We have zero tolerance for Nazi, white supremacist, or racist images or representations. Violators will be asked to cover, change, or leave the event.

9. Pets

  • Pets are not allowed at this event.

  • Only service animals with proper certification are permitted.

  • This event includes equestrian sports and other historical demonstrations; for the safety of all attendees and performers, pets are prohibited.

10. Safety & Accessibility

  • Ample emergency, first aid, and security personnel will be on site should these services be needed.

  • Event staff can assist attendees with disabilities.

  • Quiet or rest areas are available for those needing breaks from crowds or noise.

  • While the Richmond Ren Faire provides designated handicapped parking near the main gate and accessible portable restrooms, the festival takes place primarily on grass surfaces, with some uneven and sandy areas. These conditions may present challenges for individuals using wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or other mobility devices, so attendees are encouraged to take care and plan accordingly.

  • Accessible pathways will be provided to main festival areas, restrooms, and vendor spaces where possible.

  • Consider using wide-tired mobility devices or wheelchair mats if needed.

  • Service animals are welcome and can assist with mobility and access.

  • Follow instructions from festival staff and security at all times.

11. Photography / Media

  • By entering this area or participating in this event, you acknowledge that photography, video, and audio recording may occur and consent to the use of your image, likeness, and voice in the production and related promotional materials in any media.

  • Photography is allowed unless otherwise posted.

  • Be respectful when taking photos of other attendees, especially children.

12. Parking & Traffic

  • Dorey Park has ample parking for attendees.

  • Park only in designated areas.

  • Respect neighboring properties and public roads.

  • Arrive early.

13. Rain Plan

  • The Faire is rain or shine. Tickets are valid regardless of weather.

  • Vendors and performers are under tents to keep you dry.

  • Dress appropriately: ponchos, waterproof shoes, and umbrellas are recommended.

  • Your support rain or shine helps our community of vendors, performers, and guilds thrive.

14. Trinket Trading

  • Richmond Ren Faire – Trinket Trading Policy

    Trinket trading at the Richmond Ren Faire is a fun, community-driven activity designed to encourage connection, creativity, and kindness among attendees. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, please follow the guidelines below:

    Guiding Principles

    • Community Over Commerce: Trinket trading is about interaction and shared joy, not value or profit. All exchanges should be voluntary and friendly.

    • No Buying or Selling: Trinkets may not be sold, and no money, tips, or bartering with currency is permitted.

    Faewild Guild Trading Location

    • A dedicated Trinket Trading Booth will be available within the Faewild Guild for those who would like a central place to trade.

    • Guests are welcome to trade throughout the Faire grounds as well, as long as all guidelines are followed.

    Respect for Vendors

    • Please do not trade within vendor booths or interfere with vendor business in any way.

    • Do not offer items that replicate or directly compete with goods sold by official vendors. Supporting our artisans and merchants is essential to the Faire.

    Safety Requirements

    • All items must be safe and appropriate for a public, family-friendly environment.

    • Prohibited items include:

      • Sharp objects

      • Glass items

      • Anything that could be considered a choking hazard (especially for children)

      • Food or consumables

    Item Guidelines

    • Trinkets should be small, handmade, or low-cost items ideally made of natural materials and hand made.

    • To reduce waste, participants are encouraged to bring a reasonable quantity of items (recommended limit: 20–25).

    • Please avoid excessive packaging or materials that could create litter.

    Participation Etiquette

    • Trading is always optional, please respect a “no thank you.”

    • Consider wearing or displaying a ribbon, pin, or small sign to indicate you are open to trading.

    • Be kind, inclusive, and mindful, this activity is meant to enhance the magic of the Faire for all.

    No Promotion or Advertising

    • Trinkets should not include business cards, promotional materials, or social media handles.

    • This is a non-commercial activity intended purely for fun and connection.

15. Bring Cash!

  • Plan to Bring Cash to the Richmond Ren Faire

  • Cell service in the park will be limited, so we strongly encourage guests to bring cash to support our local artisan and food vendors.

  • While many vendors will accept credit cards (and some may use Venmo or Cash App pending their personal preference) connectivity may be unreliable due to the large number of attendees and limited Wi-Fi access. Cash will help ensure faster, smoother transactions.

  • People’s Advantage Federal Credit Union will be onsite with a mobile ATM as capacity allows, but planning ahead can help you avoid processing fees and long wait times.

By following these policies, we can ensure the Richmond Renaissance Faire remains safe, enjoyable, and memorable for all attendees, while protecting Dorey Park and our surrounding community. Thank you for helping us create a magical, fun, and respectful event!