What I Learned About Confidence and Community at the Renaissance Fair

When I first stepped through the gates of my local Renaissance fair, I expected the turkey legs, the jousting, and maybe a few awkwardly delivered “Good morrow!”s. What I didn’t expect was to walk away with something much bigger—a deeper sense of confidence and a connection to a community I never knew I needed.

The Renaissance fair isn’t just about dressing up in period garb or buying handmade trinkets. It’s a place where self-expression is celebrated, creativity knows no limits, and — if you’re open to it — you just might rediscover a version of yourself that’s bolder, louder, and unapologetically you.

Here’s what the Renaissance fair taught me about confidence, community, and why these festivals are about so much more than cosplay.

Confidence Comes from Letting Go of Expectations

I used to think confidence came from having the “perfect” outfit, the “right” body, or fitting into a specific aesthetic. But the fair quickly proved me wrong. I saw people of all shapes, sizes, abilities, and backgrounds proudly strutting in corsets, leather armour, fairy wings, and full-on wizard robes — each one more fabulous than the last.

And no one was trying to hide. There were no apologies, no comparisons — just joy.

That energy was contagious. I started to realise that confidence isn’t something you put on — it’s something you allow. It’s what happens when you give yourself permission to take up space and be seen, as you are, without shrinking to fit in.

Your Body Is Not a Costume Limitation

Before attending the fair, I worried about whether I’d “look right” in a corset or a flowing gown. But once I got there, I realised that no one was checking for your size tag. People were admiring style, creativity, vibe. The fair didn’t care if you were plus-size, thin, tall, short, or somewhere in between — it just wanted you to play.

Costumes, I learned, aren’t about changing your body to suit a role. They’re about choosing a role that suits your spirit—and dressing for it in a way that feels fun. When I stopped focusing on how I measured up and started focusing on how I felt, that’s when the magic really kicked in. Click to view the full vintage-inspired dress range that’s going to make you feel amazing.

Community Isn’t Just a Buzzword—It’s Real at the Fair

From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by compliments, warm smiles, and playful banter from total strangers. Vendors complimented my outfit. Fellow attendees helped tie ribbons I couldn’t reach. Performers pulled me into scenes and made me feel like part of the show. It wasn’t performative — it was genuine.

And that’s when it hit me: this wasn’t just an event. It was a community.

The Renaissance fair brings together people who love fantasy, fun, and freedom. People who want to cheer you on, not tear you down. In a world that often feels isolating, the fair reminded me how good it feels to be seen, accepted, and celebrated by others who are also just being their wonderfully weird selves.

Confidence Is a Practice — And Play Helps

One of the biggest lessons I took away was that confidence doesn’t come from perfection. It comes from practice. And the fair gives you the perfect space to practise being your boldest self.

It’s a playground for adults. You get to test out new sides of yourself, try on different identities, and say “why not?” instead of “what if?”. That sense of freedom sticks with you long after you’ve taken off your costume. You realise that the version of you who danced to a lute player or called someone “milord” with zero shame? That’s still you.

Why Going to a Renaissance Fair with Friends Can Make a Huge Difference

Going to your first Renaissance festival can be scary. Yes, you’re excited to see what’s on offer at the stalls or to see what everybody’s costumes are. But, when you’re going alone, it can magnify your nerves and make you feel self-conscious. This is why it’s recommended to take a group of friends with you when you’re going to the festival. It can make a big difference in your confidence and the fun you have. Let’s take a look at why you should make it a group event.

You Feel More Comfortable

New environments on your own can be daunting. You feel like everybody is watching you and you feel self-conscious. Unfortunately, this can mean that you don’t enjoy going to a Renaissance fair as much because you’re worried about what other people think. One way to change this is to invite friends to go with you. This can be a group event, which can give you the confidence to try activities or to wear a costume.

You Make New Memories

Everybody wants to make good memories with their friends. Indeed, this is exactly what you can do at a Renaissance fair. There are so many opportunities to have fun, such as playing games and dressing up for the occasion. You can take photos and make lasting memories with the people you care about.

You Gather New Friends

Do you find it easier to make new friends when you have loved ones with you? This is often tied to confidence. Bringing friends with you makes you more likely to meet others who have similar interests. You can feel more confident approaching them and starting a conversation.

Final Thoughts: Find Your People, Find Your Power

I went to the Renaissance fair thinking I was just going to have a laugh and eat some funnel cake. I left feeling empowered, inspired, and more connected — to myself and to others — than I had in a long time.

So if you’ve ever hesitated to attend because you felt like you didn’t “fit the part,” let me be the first to tell you: you already do. There’s no casting call at the Renaissance fair — just an open invitation.

Put on that crown, wield that foam sword, and remember: confidence isn’t about pretending to be someone else. Sometimes it’s just about finally letting yourself be who you are — loud, lovely, and completely free.