The ORF Blog

December 11, 2024

When we think of the Twelve Days of Christmas today, visions of drummers drumming, lords a-leaping, and golden rings might come to mind thanks to the famous carol. However, during the Tudor period (1485-1603), the Twelve Days of Christmas were far more than a whimsical tune. They were a time of extended festivity, feasting, and […]

November 28, 2024

During the Elizabethan era (1558–1603), Christmas celebrations were rich with music, featuring carols that have endured through the centuries. These songs, originating from various regions, were integral to the festive season, reflecting both religious themes and local traditions. From devout worship to stories passed down through oral recitation, get ready to add these songs to […]

November 13, 2024

The holiday season is a magical time where the warmth of tradition and the sparkle of festive celebrations come together to create unforgettable memories for families. From enchanting light shows that transform the night into a wonderland to charming Christmas villages bustling with holiday cheer, there’s no shortage of holiday fun to be had. Take […]

October 30, 2024

While modern audiences might turn to haunted houses, horror films, and ghost tours for a chilling thrill, the Tudors of 16th-century England had their own methods of indulging in fear. During the reign of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, the world was rife with superstition, religion, folklore, and a fascination with the macabre. Let’s dive […]

October 23, 2024

In the minds of Tudor England’s people, ghosts were a common and often unnerving part of life. The fear of spirits was deeply embedded in their belief system, as it was widely thought that ghosts were souls trapped between heaven and hell. These wandering spirits were believed to return to the living world because of […]

October 10, 2024

With the beauty of fall settling over Ohio, there’s no better time to embrace the season than by attending the Ohio Renaissance Festival’s Romance Weekend. Held in the charming town of Waynesville, OH, this themed weekend offers couples a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the magic and allure of a bygone era. If you’re searching for […]

October 4, 2024

Renaissance festivals, like the Ohio Renaissance Festival, offer more than just a fun escape into history. They have a profound impact on the local economy and culture. These festivals celebrate the art, craftsmanship, and traditions of a bygone era, but their modern contributions are felt deeply in the communities they engage. From creating economic opportunities […]

September 26, 2024

Since June 2019, I have done my utmost to present to you all the little secrets, tips, and fascinating things about the Ohio Renaissance Festival through the blog. From interviews with the Queen herself to the best eats in the village, it feels like you should know everything by now. Right? Well, maybe not! Read […]

September 18, 2024

We have a unique perspective when it comes to history. Many of us were taught a somewhat simplistic view of world events, most likely centered on the most significant figures and wars of the time. But what we often lack is a more human sense of who people were and what their day-to-day lives were […]

September 11, 2024

The atmosphere of the Ohio Renaissance Festival is one of freedom and adventure. There’s excitement around every corner, with incredible shows and wonderful characters to meet. You can ride a dragon in the Games and Rides district or become a fairy at the face-painting booth. There are pubs and taverns and shopping galore. It feels […]