Families invited to celebrate spring with an Easter Egg Stroll, a Renaissance Easter service, and a full day of adventure
WAXAHACHIE, Texas (March 18, 2026) – Families looking for the best Easter events in DFW for 2026 can step back in time when Scarborough Renaissance Festival opens its 45th season April 4 and 5, 2026, with festive holiday traditions, immersive entertainment, and a full day of family-friendly adventure.
Easter weekend visitors can enjoy an Easter Egg Stroll for children, a Renaissance-style Easter service on Sunday, and the festive return of Scarborough’s beloved characters as the Village gates open for the milestone season.
Set within a 25-acre recreation of an English village celebrating the 1545 visit of King Henry VIII and Queen Katheryn Parr, the festival blends history, pageantry, and playful fantasy with strolling performers, artisan shoppes, human-powered rides, and dozens of live performances.
Opening Weekend Easter Activities
With Easter falling on Opening Weekend this year, the festival offers families a unique way to celebrate the holiday with a blend of festive traditions and Renaissance charm.
Children can participate in the Easter Egg Stroll, a playful twist on a classic holiday activity held Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Maypole. Designed for children ages 12 and under, the lighthearted event invites young guests to join village characters for a whimsical egg-on-the-spoon stroll around the Maypole. No registration is required.
On Sunday, April 5, at noon, guests of all ages are invited to attend the Renaissance Easter Service at the Crown Meadow Stage. The abbreviated Anglican-style gathering celebrates the renewal of the season through prayer, music, and a message of hope.
Families can also take advantage of Kids’ Free Weekend, when children ages 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult (up to three children per adult). Children age 4 and under are always admitted free, making this one of the most family-friendly Easter events in Dallas-Fort Worth.
Family-Friendly Experiences
Recently voted the No. 1 Renaissance Festival in the Southeast Region and ranked No. 2 in the nation for family-friendly programming, Scarborough Renaissance Festival offers a wide range of experiences designed especially for children and families.
One of the most memorable traditions for young visitors is the Knighting Ceremony, where children are presented before the Royal Court and recognized for acts of courage and kindness.
The Mermaid Lagoon invites guests to meet live mermaids in an enchanting setting with scheduled appearances throughout the day.
Animal lovers will enjoy the Birds of Prey Show featuring hawks, falcons, and other raptors, while young guests are delighted by Opal the Fairy, a whimsical character known for bubbles and playful surprises.
Across the Village stages, families can experience dozens of performances, including:
- The Nature of Mercy Pirates (interactive sword-fighting comedy)
- Harmless Danger Juggling (humor + audience participation)
- Cirque du Sewer (trained rescue cats and rats)
- Kamikaze Fireflies (fire tricks and acrobatics)
Animals, Attractions, and Village Adventures
The Royal Menagerie gives children the opportunity to interact with animals such as goats, sheep, pigs, and exotic species.
The Mythical Monster Museum offers a walk-through adventure filled with fantastical creatures from dragons to trolls.
Each afternoon, guests can enjoy the Grande Parade, a colorful procession through the Village.
Visitors can also try archery, crossbow, treasure mining, and human-powered rides like the Dragon Swings, Crow’s Nest, and Carousello.
New Attractions for the 45th Season
New experiences and returning favorites make the 2026 season one of the most exciting yet.
Guests will witness armored combat in the new Joust Arena, explore The King’s Dungeon immersive experience, and brave Scarborough Castle: Hauntings of Yore.
The festival will also feature viral performer Jacques Ze Whipper, known for his daring whip artistry.
Artisan Marketplace and Entertainment
More than 200 artisan shoppes offer handcrafted jewelry, leather goods, pottery, fine art, and unique Renaissance treasures.
Dozens of stages and street performers fill the lanes with music, comedy, and acrobatics throughout the day.
Tickets and Visitor Information
Tickets are available at SRFestival.com.
- Adults (13+): $34
- Kids (5–12): $15
- Children 4 and under: FREE
- Kids 12 and under: FREE Opening Weekend (with paid adult)
- Parking: FREE
Advance discounts available at North Texas Tom Thumb and Albertsons starting March 28. Military and senior discounts available at the gate.
