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Hear ye, Mariposa! A Family’s Guide to the Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival

April 09, 2026

Hear ye, Mariposa! A Family’s Guide to the Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival

Hear ye, noble families and fantasy lovers! The Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival at Mariposa County Fairgrounds calls you to a realm where knights clash, dragons soar, and magic fills the air. Step into a world bursting with family-friendly festival Mariposa delights—from jousting and archery to enchanting Fairy Village tea parties with Miranda the Forest Fairy. Ready your garb and your spirit for a Mariposa weekend getaway filled with wonder and whimsy!

Enchanting Adventures Await

Prepare for a journey full of magic and wonder. This festival isn't just an event; it's a portal to a different time and place.

Knights, Mermaids, and Magic

Imagine knights in shining armor preparing for epic battles. Picture mermaids greeting little adventurers with stories of the sea. The festival's knights promise thrilling jousts that will have you cheering. Be sure to visit the Mermaid Meet and Greet for enchanting tales and photos you'll cherish.

Every corner of the festival brings something new. From mystical creatures to the majestic Yose the Dragon, there's magic at every turn. Did you know? Yose loves when guests help keep the grounds clean. It's a fun way to learn about caring for our environment together!

Unforgettable Family Quests

Arm yourself with a map and embark on quests that lead you through enchanted lands. Meet characters who share tales of heroism and adventure. Each quest is a chance to create lasting memories with your family. Whether you're young or young at heart, the festival offers thrilling tales and hidden treasures waiting to be uncovered.

Join the Fantasy Film Fest

Lights, camera, enchantment! The Fantasy Film Fest showcases stories of bravery, magic, and mythical lands. It's perfect for families who love tales of gallant heroes and daring rescues. With a variety of films, there's a tale for everyone. Share popcorn with loved ones and lose yourself in stories as remarkable as the festival itself.

Interactive Family Activities

The adventures don't stop with knights and films. Dive into hands-on activities designed for families to enjoy together.

Fairy Village Tea Party

Join Miranda the Forest Fairy at the Fairy Village Tea Party. Sip tea, nibble treats, and listen to stories that captivate both young and old. Little ones will delight in meeting Miranda, who brings to life the enchanting world of Miranda & Yose Guardians of the Grove. It's a charming experience where imagination takes flight.

Pirate's Cove Experience

Ahoy, mateys! Sail into the Pirate's Cove for a swashbuckling adventure. Young buccaneers can hunt for treasure and learn the ways of the sea. From tales of adventure to pirate games, there's no end to the fun. And don't forget to snap a photo with the Captain!

Jousting and Archery Challenges

Feel the rush of arrows zipping through the air and the thundering hooves of jousting horses. These challenges offer a glimpse into the skills of yore. Spectators cheer as knights compete with valor. If you're brave enough, try your hand at archery and aim for the bullseye.

Plan Your Whimsical Visit

Ready to embark on this magical adventure? Here's all you need to know to plan your visit.

Secure Your Festival Tickets

Don't miss out on this enchanting event. Get your tickets early to ensure your entry into a world of fantasy. Tickets grant access to all the festival's wonders. The longer you wait, the more likely you'll miss out on this captivating experience.

Add-On Adventures and More

Enhance your visit with add-on adventures. From private tea parties with Miranda to exclusive tours of the Fairy Village, there's something special for everyone. These add-ons make your festival experience even more memorable.

Meet Local Artisans and Vendors

Peruse the artisan market for unique treasures. Meet local vendors showcasing their crafts. From handmade jewelry to medieval attire, there's something for every taste. Supporting local artisans enriches the community and adds a personal touch to your festival journey.

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Plan your visit now to the Yosemite Chivalry & Fantasy Festival and make memories that sparkle with magic and adventure!

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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