Ye Olde Weekend Escape!

This winter, Helen invites you to take a stroll through a whole different era! Wander up Ridge Road the weekend of January 16-18 for CastleFaire Winter Renaissance Festival, a weekend celebration of artisans, musicians, and full-tilt medieval revelry on the grounds of Uhuburg, Eagle Owl Castle. 

This event isn’t some megafair you tag on a map and breeze past; it’s a community-scaled festival that brings renaissance charm right to the heart of Georgia’s Alpine Village. The faire runs 11 to 5 on Friday, 10 to 5 on Saturday, and 10 to 4 on Sunday. General admission for ages 5 and up is $20, and kiddos under five get in free. 

If the holidays left you craving a fresh excuse to put wool and velvet back on, this is your moment. Festival organizers encourage medieval or fantasy attire, so you’ll see everything from simple tunics and cloaks to elaborate leather gear and feathered caps. 

The setting is part of the draw. The Uhuburg castle walls rise on a hill less than a mile from downtown Helen. You can wander the castle courtyard and Great Hall, visit the Lookout Tower, and take in live music and historical demos. Performers range from Celtic-style groups to living history presentations and combat demonstrations by local sword clubs. 

A few things to know before you head up the hill:

• Plan Ahead: Parking is mostly in off-site lots with a shuttle up to the castle grounds. Shuttle service is included with your ticket, but be sure to arrive early to give yourself extra time for pick-up and drop-off. 
• Bundle Up: Bring layers, boots, gloves, and warm drink plans. Cape and cloak weather is real in January. 
• What’s on the Menu: Vendors serve festival food and non-alcoholic beverages. Plan on casual fare that keeps you fueled while you watch pipers and storytellers.

So if you’re looking to add a little medieval charm to your January calendar, dust off your swords and daggers, bundle up, and get ready for a faire to remember!

From the Blue Ridge to the coast, fill your calendar with Georgia’s best events with our guide at gbj.com/festivals!