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Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Countdown to the 2026 Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival Begins!

January 02, 20260 min read

Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Countdown to the 2026 Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival Begins!

Hear ye, hear ye! The call to arms has sounded for the 2026 Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival, where knights clash and pirates sail into legendary adventures. You’re invited to stroll through enchanted forests, join lively jousts, and revel in a grand Renaissance Fair bursting with family entertainment and cosplay magic. Ready your finest garb and sharpen your wits—your gateway to a medieval festival like no other awaits!

Prepare for a Grand Adventure

As you step into this wondrous festival, prepare to be whisked away on a journey through time. The sights and sounds of history and fantasy come alive, promising excitement for everyone in your clan.

Exciting Jousting Tournaments

Picture this: knights in shining armor, their lances poised, ready to battle for glory. The jousting tournaments will leave you on the edge of your seat. This isn’t just a show; it’s a battle of skill and bravery.

Every clash of steel is a reminder of days gone by, when honor was won on the battlefield. You’ll witness the triumphs and cheer for your favorite knight as they vie for victory. Who will be crowned champion? Only those present will know.

It’s a sight not to be missed, and it promises to be a tale you’ll recount for years to come. Gather your family and friends, and find your spot in the stands, ready to cheer and gasp as history unfolds before you.

Enchanting Fairy Tea Parties

Beyond the battlefield lies a realm of gentler enchantments. The Fairy Village invites you to join a magical tea party, hosted by none other than Miranda the Forest Fairy.

Children and adults alike will be spellbound by the stories and the delightful company of fairies. Sip your tea as you listen to tales of wonder and meet Yose the Dragon, who may just drop by to share his wisdom about the forest.

Here’s your chance to escape into a world where dreams take flight. It’s not just tea; it’s an experience that sparks imagination and joy. So don your wings and join the fairies for an afternoon of whimsy and wonder.

Magical Moments Await

The adventure continues as you explore the festival’s wonders. Each corner of this magical gathering holds surprises and delights, ready to whisk you away to lands unknown.

Meet Mystical Mermaids

Dive into a world under the sea, where mystical mermaids await your arrival. Their enchanting songs and shimmering tails create a scene straight out of legend.

Get up close for a memorable photo and listen as they share secrets of the ocean. These mermaids aren’t just stories; they’re real, and they’re here to bring magic to your day.

This is your chance to believe in the unbelievable, and to carry away a piece of the ocean’s magic. It’s a moment you’ll cherish, and one that will inspire tales of your own.

Engage in Pirate Escapades

Ahoy, adventurers! Ready your sea legs and prepare to join the pirate crew. The Pirate’s Cove offers a swashbuckling escapade where treasure and treachery await.

Step aboard a pirate ship and set sail for adventure. Learn to sword fight, search for hidden booty, and hear tales of the high seas. The pirates are eager to share their life of adventure with you.

This is your chance to live the pirate’s life, even if just for a day. It’s an escapade filled with laughter and thrills, and by the end, you might just find yourself longing for the sea breeze once more.

Plan Your Visit

As you prepare to embark on this grand adventure, make sure you’ve got all the details in place. The festival awaits, and you won’t want to miss a moment.

Secure Your Tickets Now

Though there’s no rush to buy immediately, knowing you’re set for the festival will put your mind at ease. The event spans June 6-7, 2026, at the scenic Mariposa County Fairgrounds.

With your tickets in hand, all that’s left is to mark your calendar and start counting down the days. This festival is an opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t let it pass you by.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

If this is your maiden voyage to the festival, fret not! Here are some tips to ensure your experience is nothing short of legendary:

  1. Dress the Part: Embrace the fantasy by wearing your favorite costume. Whether knight, fairy, or pirate, there’s a place for everyone.

  2. Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy the full spectrum of activities.

  3. Plan Your Day: With so much to see and do, a bit of planning goes a long way.

  4. Capture the Magic: Bring a camera to capture your favorite moments.

  5. Enjoy Every Moment: Most importantly, let yourself be swept away by the magic and merriment.

Prepare for a festival that promises to be the highlight of your year. With a blend of history, fantasy, and family fun, the Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival awaits. See you there!

Kimberly Vaughan is the founder and Keeper of the Realm for the Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival. A long-time event producer, storyteller, and community builder, she creates immersive gatherings that blend history, imagination, and place, rooted in the landscapes and lore of the Sierra Nevada.

With a background spanning cultural festivals, weddings, arts programming, and nonprofit leadership, Kimberly approaches events as living worlds rather than single-day experiences. Her work centers on honoring tradition while inviting modern communities to step into story, ritual, and shared celebration.

Through The Chronicle of the Realm, she preserves the unfolding history of the festival—its people, performers, artisans, and moments—offering readers a glimpse beyond the gates and into the heart of the realm itself.

Kimberly Vaughan

Kimberly Vaughan is the founder and Keeper of the Realm for the Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival. A long-time event producer, storyteller, and community builder, she creates immersive gatherings that blend history, imagination, and place, rooted in the landscapes and lore of the Sierra Nevada. With a background spanning cultural festivals, weddings, arts programming, and nonprofit leadership, Kimberly approaches events as living worlds rather than single-day experiences. Her work centers on honoring tradition while inviting modern communities to step into story, ritual, and shared celebration. Through The Chronicle of the Realm, she preserves the unfolding history of the festival—its people, performers, artisans, and moments—offering readers a glimpse beyond the gates and into the heart of the realm itself.

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