The New Jersey Renaissance Faire is set to return to the Burlington County Fairgrounds later this month, bringing back a full lineup of medieval entertainment, artisan vendors, and two globally recognized performers. The annual event will run over three weekends, beginning May 17 and continuing through June 8.
The festival, which draws over 5,000 attendees per day, will welcome back Jacques ze Whipper and Paolo Garbanzo — performers with international acclaim and large online followings. Jacques, also known as Jack Lepiarz of Madison, NJ, is known for his high-energy whip acts, while Paolo Garbanzo (Paul Hudert) entertains audiences with comedy and expert juggling.
“The New Jersey Renaissance Faire is a place where you can step back in time and forget your worries for a day,” said Jacques. Paolo added, “The spirit of camaraderie is simply unmatched.” Both will also perform exclusive Saturday night after-hours shows, which are new additions to this year’s schedule.
Held at 1990 Jacksonville Jobstown Road in Columbus, NJ, the Faire offers a wide range of experiences including a royal joust with four horses, a human chess match, fire breathers, aerialists, and pirates. The grounds open at 10 a.m. and close at 6 p.m., with performances and activities scheduled throughout the day.
Faire features over 100 vendors and immersive experiences
The event’s merchant village includes over 100 artisans offering handmade wares, from weaponry and clothing to original art and specialty foods. Many patrons also arrive in costume, contributing to the event’s immersive atmosphere.
Additional highlights include live music, roaming magicians, and interactive shows. Food vendors will serve period-themed fare alongside more traditional festival staples. Pet lovers can also purchase dog tickets, as the Faire welcomes four-legged guests.
Event organizers encourage visitors to purchase tickets in advance through NJRenFaire.com. The site also offers information about group sales, special event updates, and performer details.