The creators of the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire warmly welcome you to a festive celebration like no other: Yuletide at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire! Prepare to be whisked away into a wonderous winter wonderland, where the magic of the holiday season comes alive amid a realm of fantasical characters, mouthwatering delicacies, and exquisite beverages. *All event information is subject to change. Please continue to check back, or like us on Facebook @PaRenFaire for updates.
Dates: Nov. 29-30 & Dec. 1, 7-8 & 14-15, 2024 — Hours of Operation: 11AM-4:30PM — Location: 2775 Lebanon Rd. Manheim, PA 17545
General Admission (Ages 12+): $24.95
Children (Ages 5-11) Admission: $3.00
Children 4 and Under Free, No Ticket Required
Virtual Box Office
Please Note: Yuletide Subscriptions are Sold Out
Includes 1 ticket to each of the 7 Yuletide at the Faire days in the 2024 Season to be used by the authorized subscription holder ONLY. Date Specific tickets obtained with a subscription code are NOT transferrable to another individual.
No matter what your age, please be prepared to show proper identification in order to consume alcohol. Valid ID includes a state issued driver's license or state issued ID card with photo, a passport, or a United States military identification card with photo. We are unable to accept any foreign driver's license. Note that the identification cannot be expired at the time of the festival.
Friendly, well-behaved dogs are welcome to join their human companions for the revelry of Yuletide at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire. There are some simple steps to take before visiting with your furry friend. Dog Friendly Festival tickets and policies apply to dogs only. No other animals will be admitted. (Our Dog Friendly Festival program only applies to specified Mount Hope events.)
Download the Dog Decrees Informational Sheet
Mount Hope adheres to the ADA's definition of Service animal found here found here. Please refer to ADA's frequently asked questions as it pertains to Mount Hope Estate events. Service Dogs do not require a Royal Hound Ticket or submission of the form or waiver.
If you submitted a form to bring your dog to the Faire, you MUST RESUBMIT the information to qualify for our dog's Yuletide attendance using the link below. The Qualified Dog Registration Form is now accepting submissions. Please follow us on Facebook @PaRenFaire or join the Royal Email List to be the first to know about events and more!
Owners must complete a Qualified Dog Registration Form, Wavier and uploaded photos for each individual dog. A date specific Royal Hound Ticket will be required for each visit, for each dog, registered to enter the Fairegrounds. Tickets can be printed or shown from a mobile device for entry. Tickets are non-transferable and apply only to the registered dog.
Tickets will NOT be sold at the gate. Allow one business day for review of dog registration information. Approvals will not be sent on Saturdays or Sundays.
While visiting, we expect our furry friends will make sure that their human companions follow the Yuletide Dog Decrees. We look forward to welcoming you and your furry family member to the 2024 Yuletide at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire!
Ticket prices are listed in the Dates, Times & Tickets section above, as well as on the Virtual Box Office.
Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing world adorned with whimsical decorations and enchanting music. From the moment you step onto the Shire, you'll be transported to a magical realm, reminiscent of a fairytale where the joy of holidays resonates in every corner. Meet and greet an array of captivating characters from different lands and time periods. Watch in awe as fairies, elves, and other mythical beings roam the grounds, ready to share laughter and holiday cheer with visitors of all ages! Click here for Schedule/Map.
The Queen of Snowflakes, don't let her frigid appearance fool you. She's delighted to oversee the snow and all its splendor.
A symbol of seasonal splendor and hope, this bubbly fairy is elated to bring joy to all of those that need it during the holiday season.
There's a nip in the air, and you can thank Jack for that! This lovable mischievous hellion is ready to spread his winter magic to all, in the name of fun of course.
That's right…Tiny Tim. He may be much taller than the nickname alludes but regardless he is happy to help his Uncle Scrooge and the rest of the village enjoy his favorite season.
Fresh from haunting their old business partner, Jacob is here to make sure Scrooge behaves, and to enjoy the most wonderous time of the year of course.
Newly reformed after his visit from three spirits and ready to celebrate the holidays with the entire village.
Charachter names and descriptions to be announced. Please Like @PARENFAIRE on Facebook or Join the Royal Email to be the first notified of updates and news!
Clearly the pride of the Deere family, along with her sibling Freddie. Certainly not a conwoman, and definitely not here to ransack the presents under the tree and then dash.
Mysterious newly arrived nephew of Lord Jonathan Deere. Charming, charismatic, cunning, and certainly not criminal. Brother to Claire Olive “Deere” and they are both certainly out to steal.. your hearts.
The return of the world's best in-law. For this Yuletide, she's brought her pitch pipe, her hoop skirt, and her Reign family pride.
Returning with the Reign family and bringing the best holiday gift of all: Advice to all the people who clearly need it. You too can be perfect with Penny.
Back at Mount Hope and excited to spread Yuletide happiness to all, especially his beloved nieces and nephews!
The Reign family member most obsessed with victory. Holding first place wins such as most gravel stuffed in mouth, most shirts ironed in a single hour, and best in show at the Westminster dog show—as the dog.
A niece of the delightful Deere family. Here protect her uncle Jonathan from anything and anyone trying to ruin the perfect Deere holiday.
A critic of all things theatrical and non-theatrical. He returns to Mt. Hope to prove his caroling and his everything else is of the utmost quality.
Charachter names and descriptions to be announced. Please Like @PARENFAIRE on Facebook or Join the Royal Email to be the first notified of updates and news!
Inn Keeper • Ready with a warm hearth, a warm meal and a warm smile.
Holiday Historian • More than a little fruity, but definitely not nutty (Or is she?)
Village Baker • She can't remember her full name where she's from, thankfully the elf that lives in her fingers is a baking wizard.
Couples Coordinator • Looking for that perfect winter romance? Miss Elle Towe will make sure that your December dalliances will be a hallmark of your holiday!
Toymaker • Nick is so good at what he does, Santa's elves ask him for advice.
Reindeer Caretaker • She knows Dasher and Dancer and Prancer, etc and how they spend their downtime.
Holiday Songwriter • Her music is sure to live forever even if people did forget she was in that tree.
Tavern Keep • Tis the most joyous season of the year again, and he’s simply having a wonderful Chris Smith time.
Don't miss the chance to be part of this joyous fusion of the holiday season and Renaissance charm. Grab your friends and family, don your festive attire, and come join us at the Pa Ren Faire for an enchanting Yuletide celebration like no other! Click here for Schedule/Map.
Step into a winter wonderland and let the captivating voices of our carolers fill your heart with joy and warmth. This delightful troupe showcases a collection of beautiful holiday songs, both classic and contemporary, sure to leave audiences of all ages spellbound.
In the spirit of the holiday season, a gathering of fantastical characters, comes together to present a captivating showcase of some of the greatest holiday stories ever told. Get ready to be whisked away on a journey of wonder, as these short theatrical shows bring beloved tales to life in a magical and heartwarming experience for audiences of all ages.
Join Tiny Tim, Marley, and Ebenezer Scrooge himself as they share their version of what happened on that fateful night in a touching (and hilarious) retelling of "A Christmas Carol". Or settle in with Jack Frost, The Snow Queen, and The Sugarplum Fairy as they present "The Shoemaker and the Elves". These two classic tales are sure to warm the coldest of hearts and will guarantee that no one leaves feeling like a humbug.
Step into a world of holiday enchantment as Father Christmas himself takes the stage to share some of his favorite holiday stories. This captivating endeavor invites children of all ages to gather 'round as Father Christmas shares timeless tales and heartwarming stories, spreading joy and holiday spirit to all who attend.
"Story Time with Father Christmas" is the perfect way to ignite the festive spirit in children and adults alike. Join us for an unforgettable experience where storytelling and holiday magic come alive, spreading love, laughter, and the joy of the holidays throughout the audience.
Our ever-cheerful townsfolk have finally figured out the quickest way warm hearts and spread magic this holiday season, and that's with laughter! Join the delightfully whimsical citizens of yuletide as they embark on the greatest holiday adventure; Improv! So, have a seat at the moon stage and watch as they use audience suggestions to craft scenes and play games! It's sure to be an entertaining addition to your holiday traditions!
Every weekend, join our host for pub trivia that's themed to the weekend! Teams of no more than 4 can compete for nifty prizes, and to prove once and for all the true value of all that useless knowledge you've collected thanks to years of obsession and neuroses.
Gather around the Mount Hope Shire Tree for a heartwarming celebration of the Holiday Season! Share your voices and spirits as we sing along to beloved Yuletide carols. A complimentary Song Book will be provided for your enjoyment and to take home as a gift of our appreciation.
Get ready for a weekend of festive fun and fashion faux pas at our Ugly Sweater Weather Weekend at Yuletide! Embrace the charm of mismatched patterns, clashing colors, and holiday-themed knit nightmares as we invite you to don your ugliest, coziest, and most delightfully hideous sweaters. Take part in our contest and see if your sweater is just ugly enough to win! Raid your closets, unleash your inner fashion rebel, and join us for an unforgettable Ugly Sweater Weather Weekend!
Step into the enchanting world of Charles Dickens and bring the timeless charm of Victorian Christmas to life at our 'A Dickens of a Christmas' Costume Contest! Immerse yourself in the elegance and nostalgia of the Dickensian era by donning your most exquisite period attire. From bonnets and top hats to cravats and petticoats, let the spirit of 19th-century London inspire your festive wardrobe. It's a chance to revel in the spirit of the season with elegance and a touch of literary charm!
Get ready to hit the festive big screen at our Holiday Movie Extravaganza Weekend! Unleash your inner movie star and join us in celebrating the magic of the season by dressing up as your favorite holiday film character. From iconic Christmas classics to heartwarming modern favorites, this is your chance to embody the spirit of the silver screen and spread some cinematic cheer. Let's turn our Yuletide festival into a reel celebration of holiday movie magic. Lights, camera, costume action – it's time to shine in the spotlight of our Holiday Movie Extravaganza!
Get ready for a paw-sitively adorable event! Join us for the Happy Howlidays Dog Costume Exhibition. Your furry friends can strut their stuff in their cutest holiday costumes. From reindeer to elves, Santa to snowmen, the possibilities are endless. Participants will receive a certificate of participation. Bring your camera and capture the festive fun!
Mount Hope Mansion in Lancaster County was built in 1800 as a grand rural retreat for four continuous generations of the wealthy colonial American ironmaster Grubb family. Renovated and enlarged at the height of the Victorian Era, it is a simply delightful estate, particularly during the holiday season when she is dressed in her holiday finery. Please Note: The mansion is set for the annual interactive dinner theater performance of Holidays at Mount Hope. Dogs (with the exception of Service Dogs) are not permitted inside the Mount Hope Mansion.
Join Daisy Grubb (Jennifer Espenshade) for traditional Holiday merrymaking after visiting the festively decorated rooms of Mount Hope Mansion. The Yuletide Carolers and Townfolk will entertain guests in the Mansion's Chapel throughout the day. You don't want to miss this interactive event that is sure to put you in the Holiday spirit!
Added in the 1895 renovation, the mantel which rests above the spacious hearth in the billard room is composed of one massive piece of sandstone quarried on the estate. The massive new bar in the Billard Room was installed in November 2017 and was built in the late 1800's in Ireland and shipped to New York. The bar then found its home in the Elizabethtown Inn in the 1920's where it remained until going into storage two year before being purchased for the Mansion. Libations by the Glass: Featuring a selection of Mount Hope Wines, Swashbuckler Beers, Lancaster County Ciders, and seasonal cocktails featuring Spirits Distlling Co. Spirits — All proudced on the Estate grounds.
In a multiple day decorating extravaganza, Mount Hope Mansion is transformed inside and out into a seasonal wonderland. Take a self-guided tour through the first floor and take in the opulent displays themed around Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker. Each room has been carefully curated to represent a different character or scene from the famous ballet. Giant nutcrackers guarding whimsically adorned trees welcome guests inside the mansion foyer, and unique surprises like the Mouse King's cheese tree are sure to bring his fanciful story to life. A special thanks to Carrie Emich-Wallace and her helpers—Judy and Shane for the 100+ hours they dedicated to the Holiday decorations we enjoy this season!
Enjoy the walkthrough below from a Christmas Past "2023" providing a glimpse into the bedecked Mansion rooms.
2023 Photography & Yuletide Mansion Walk Through by Luria Visuals • LuriaVisuals.com
Experience thrilling performances by talented musicians, dancers, and entertainers, all skillfully combining traditional Holiday elements with a touch of Renaissance flair. From lively caroling to spellbinding juggling acts, there's something to delight everyone. Click here for Schedule/Map.
*Adult Content, Not Recommended for Children
Scandalous. Licentious. Madly impolitic…and riotously funny. England's preeminent Poet of the Slop-Pot is back, blending mellifluous language and hypnotic imagery with an utter disregard for decent society. Awarded a Top Ten Best Of 2022 by Theaterscene.org. "Like 75 minutes with the strangest literature professor at a small liberal arts college—the one whose classes always have huge waitlists." --Zachary Stewart, Chief Theater Critic, Theatermania
The legendary character Belsnickel has come to the Shire clad in furs and carrying a bundle of birch switches to help determine who has been naughty and who has been nice! Enjoy a photo with him at the Photo Op and take part in this unique Pennsylvania Dutch German tradition.
Belsnickel is brought to life by Steven Hager.
With a heart as bright as the twinkling Christmas lights, Daisy embodies the spirit of the season, and her enthusiasm is nothing short of contagious.
Daisy is brought to life by Jennifer Espenshade. Her ability to interact with a crowd is both natural and magical as she utilizes her improv background to ensure that each show is different and unique.
Doc Yoder is an honest trickster who brings the gift of Magic and Story to any season. Join him on the streets for legerdemain and at his scheduled shows to be mystified and enchanted with Victorian magic.
Representing the magic and goodwill of the holiday season, he is here to remind us to cherish the spirit of love, kindness, and sharing during this festive time of year.
Father Christmas is brought to life by Doug Wallace.
Jeremy Graeff & Lämning have travelled far and wide in search of medieval and renaissance melodies to warm hearts this Yuletide! Enjoy ancient songs of holiday cheer with a modern twist!
Kamikaze Fireflies is a funny, fast paced and firey show that the whole family can enjoy. With five Guinness World Records and a standing ovation on America's Got Talent this two person show is sure to impress with their unique blend of skills such as fire juggling, fire hula hoops, and battling renaissance robots.
With sharp fangs, a long, twisted tongue, and a malevolent gaze, he roams the streets of old the village carrying a sinister sack and bringing fear to mischievous children, and parents for that matter.
Krampus is brought to life by Matt Celly.
Stroll through a charming marketplace bustling with unique, gifts and holiday treasures. Find the perfect presents for your loved ones as artisans showcase their masterpieces, offering an opportunity to support local businesses during this joyous season. Please continue to check back as the merchant list is updated. Click here for Schedule/Map. All merchants are subject to change.
Interested in becoming a Yuletide merchant? Click here for more information!
Handmade Goods with a Fairy/Dragon/Magical Flair *Nov. 29-30, Dec. 1 Only
Shire's Bookstore and Historical Library
Kilts and Clothing
Artisan Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Maskmaking, Theatre Creation & Storytelling *Dec. 7-8, 14-15
Fantasy, Licensed Swords
Assorted Candy Goods
Fresh Steak or Chicken Sandwiches
Handcrafted Wearables by Local Arists
Specializing in Victorian, Steampunk, Renaissance & Fantasy Goods/Clothing
Renaissance & Medieval Themed Home Decor *Dec. 7-8, 14-15 Only
Spinning Man-Powered Ride
Honey, Honey Accessories, Bee Decor
Upscale Precious Jewels and Pearls
Handcrafted Jewelry, Accessories, Fantastical Oddities & Upcycled Treasure
Make Your Own, Take-Home Wax Hands
Armor and Child Friendly Swords
High Voltage, Wood and Resin Art
Rings, Necklaces, Bracelets, and More
Specialty Teas and Tea-Related Gifts
Tarot Card Reading and More
Capes, Hoods, Spiritual Tools & Accessories *Nov. 29-30, Dec. 1, 7-8
Funnel Cake
Assorted Games Including: Archery & Axe Throw
Herbs, Incense & Garden Art
TBD
Information Services & Official Merch
Once reserved for the courts of kings, now a fun toy for all to enjoy.
Antique Trunks, Maps, Shields & More
Hand-Made bellydance, renaissance, celtic, steampunk and viking style up cycled clothing
Assorted Pet Supplies & Goods
Button Jewelry and Unique Gifts
Nonprofit rescue and animal assisted therapy in Reading
Handmade Finery for the Discerning Gentleman or Lady *Nov. 29-30 & Dec. 1, 14-15
Premium Ice Cream, Milkshakes
Historically Inspired Jewelry & Hygiene Products
Silver Adornments
Liquor Infused Barrels & Cigars
Sway To & Fro on This Man-Powered Ride
Beef, Chicken or Shrimp
Moon Wreaths, Hand Crafted Ornaments, Witch Bells *Nov. 29-30, Dec. 1, 14-15
You Buy It, You Break It! Smash a Variety of Glassware
Step back in time at the Shire, which is filled to the brim with immersive experiences! Click here for Schedule/Map. All information is subject to change.
Hand-forged, combat ready Renaissance blades perfect for edge-to-edge stage combat. On-site blacksmith performing live, public demonstrations of forging iron over a 2,500° Fahrenheit fire. The iron will glow, and the water will sizzle! Weaponry also be available for purchase. For more information about LaForge, visit LaForge.site. Live demonstrations each day at 12:00, 2:00 & 3:15.
Feline Cat Colony & Rescue Program
Working with a furnace that can reach 2,000 degrees, the Dragon's Breath Glassworks team creates beautiful and functional glass art right before your eyes. Stop by throughout the day for live demonstrations, or to purchase their affordable, hand-crafted wares. Like them on Facebook! Live demonstrations each day at 11:30, 1:30 & 3:00.
Photos by GeorJean
11AM-1:30PM & 2PM-3PM
The legendary character Belsnickel has come to the Shire clad in furs and carrying a birch switch to help determine who has been naughty and who has been nice! Enjoy a photo with him at the Photo Op and take part in this unique Pennsylvania Dutch German tradition. Belsnickel is brought to life by Steven Hager.
Professional Photos have an Additional Cost
Click to Enlarge Map to Photo Op Location
Don't forget to pick up your official Yuletide merchandise during your visit to the grounds of Mount Hope Estate! *Items pictured below are not to scale.
Commemorate your visit to the 2024 Yuletide at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire with a logo'd hoodie.
Snuggle under this wine red double layer blanket, one side flannel fleece and the other side - white fluffy sherpa with embroidered Yuletide Logo.
Celebrate with the Holiday Cheer Glass Beer Mug with first beer or cider fill ticket.
Stop by Informistress (located inside the Front Gate - Booth #201) to purchase your Commemorative Coin of the Realm with your Visa or Mastercard and use it at any shop on the Grounds of the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire; or keep it a souvenir of your visit!
All food booths, pourhouses and some merchants on the Shire are cash-only, which makes this a perfect way to turn your credit to cash and avoid missing out on your favorite foods and wares!
It's getting cozy fireside in the Shire! Each package includes a Dark Knight logoed bamboo/stainless steel mug, a rich hot chocolate fill, and a fun s'mores kit for a sweet treat. Perfect for the most magical time of the year!
Pick up available at the firepit kiosk at the entrance to Bosworth Field. Shipping not available. Voucher must be scanned at the time of pick-up. Packages are available via the Box Office.
Pre-purchase your pouch of coins and save time with express pick-up! $50 coin package (includes 10 coins and 1 carrying pouch) and $100 coin package (includes 20 coins and 1 carrying pouch) are available.
Pick up available at the Informistress Booth (#201) inside the festival gates each Yuletide day. Shipping not available. Voucher must be scanned at the time of pick-up. Coin of the Realm included in this express package offer are non-refundable. Unused Coins are non-year specific and valid in future seasons. Packages are available via the Box Office.