Bonita Springs Transforms into a Medieval Village for Venezia Renaissance Faire

If you are driving through Bonita Springs and spot a castle along the road, you are not imagining things. The Venezia Renaissance Faire is back in Southwest Florida, transforming the area into a lively medieval village filled with music, laughter and nonstop entertainment.

Around every corner, something new is happening. Musicians fill the air with period tunes, comedians pull crowds with quick wit, and fairgoers can try their hand at authentic medieval games. The fair travels across the country, but for two weekends it calls Bonita Springs home, bringing centuries old traditions to life.

One of the biggest crowd favorites is the joust. Knights in armor charge across the field on horseback, battling for honor and for their Queen’s approval. Performers come from across the region and beyond, united by a shared love of history and theater. Many of the actor's camp on site, fully immersing themselves in the Renaissance spirit from morning to night.

Royalty also makes an appearance. A Queen who travels the circuit of Renaissance fairs across the country is visiting Venezia this season. She is accompanied by her royal guard, who escort and protect her as she greets guests throughout the village.

If you hear a bell ringing while you wander the grounds, it means DeWitt’s Punch and Judy Show is about to begin. 

The classic puppet performance has entertained audiences for more than 300 years. Performer Brent DeWitt has been working with Punch and Judy since he was a child, “This show is for everybody, no matter your age. Adults turn back into kids once they start watching the show. You get to leave all your worries outside of the tent,” DeWitt said. 

Though the show has deep roots overseas, DeWitt says it is still relatively new to audiences in the United States, and he is excited to share it with Southwest Florida.

Guests are encouraged to dress the part if they want. Corsets, cloaks and crowns are welcome, but modern clothes fit in just fine too. Anthropologist and entertainment director Stephnie Moffett says the fair is about more than costumes. “It’s so important that we continue to study the past. That’s what anthropology is all about,” Moffett said.

Food and shopping round out the experience. Visitors can enjoy medieval style feasts, refreshing drinks and a marketplace full of handcrafted goods fit for royalty. From turkey legs to unique artisan finds, there is something for every appetite and interest.

The 4th Annual Venezia Renaissance Faire runs for two weekends and offers epic tournaments, lively performances and family friendly fun. Tickets are available online for those ready to step back in time: Venezia Renaissance Faire - Events