1569 England Comes to Life

Here Ye, Hear Ye…  ‘Tis time to call all subjects near and yon to spend your days with Knights and royalty as The Castle of Muskogee hosts it’s 23rd Annual Oklahoma Renaissance Festival. An event that features the royal quest for knighthood, a full-contact joust, birds of prey exhibitions, and travelling acrobats.  Saturdays and Sundays through June 3rd, 10:30 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. - you will enjoy dozens of street performers, local artisans, culinary creators and merchants, as well as entertainers that will appear on any of the 15 stages throughout the Castleton.

There is music for the entire family to enjoy…Many of your favorite merry-makers from years past will be there, along with famous and award winning singers and musicians like The Craic, Pictus, Music Gathering and Scotty Fox.

Each weekend of the festival marks a new theme as Queen Elizabeth entertains her royal suitors that seek her hand in marriage. Friends and families, neighbors and foes are encouraged to come dressed for the part and have a jolly good time.  You can learn more about the events that coordinate with each weekend at www.okcastle.com.

Jeff Hiller, founder of the Castle in Muskogee, was a pre-school and primary school teacher with a passion for history.  “My family and I began the Renaissance Festival because it is a great way for people to learn and experience history.  Recently, a person who first came to our Renaissance Festival when he was ten years old approached me.  He said that the experience inspired him to become a history teacher!  We have had tremendous growth through the years. Much of our cast and shows have been with us for many years and new performers continue to join each year.” 

Shows, shopping, food, entertainment and themes change annually. “Castleton is a great place to step back in time.  If you have been before you will enjoy coming again.  New themes provide more ways to have fun exploring history and having a good time,” explained Jeff.

More than 135 merchants and artisans will grace the grounds of Castleton.  Siren Song Art who creates beautiful stained glass pieces will be residing in the tournament area of the village.  In Castle Keepe, masonry artist, Stone Wick, will feature a wonderful collection of statues, furniture and wall décor.  Shop the festival for uncommon hand-carved toys, games, drinking chalices made of horns and clothing.

The food is delicious and the memories will be merry for guests of every age.