Shakespeare LIVE! Launches Inaugural RenFest in Downtown Arlington

Published on October 16, 2026

Shakespeare Live RenFest graphic

By Create Arlington

A new Halloween tradition is coming to Downtown Arlington. Shakespeare LIVE and Create Texas will present the inaugural Shakespeare LIVE! RenFest from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026, at Levitt Pavilion in Downtown Arlington. Admission is free and costumes are encouraged.

The family-friendly festival will combine the spirit of a traditional Renaissance faire with Halloween and Día de los Muertos, creating an afternoon of art, theatre, music, costumes, food and entertainment.

We will have 55 booths this year, and there is something for every kind of Renaissance traveler: handcrafted wooden swords from Wesley Garard of Wood Weaponry; hand-crafted pottery from Partain Pottery, CICI House of Clay, and Axis Clay; honey wine from Fox and Raven Mead; Día de los Muertos face painting by Jellybones; henna tattoos; hair braiding by Arlington ISD cosmetology students; and the Candlelite Pub, pouring beer and wine.

Strolling musicians, live sword fight demonstrations, and interactive vendors will enhance the Renaissance atmosphere throughout the afternoon. Costumes are encouraged, and guests are invited to come dressed as Renaissance royalty, knights, fairies, witches, Shakespearean characters, or anything their imaginations inspire.

And yes — there will be turkey legs.

Performer Schedule — Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026

  • Noon: Timothy Stevens — Ancient Songs from the Celtic Isles
  • 1 p.m.: Todd Marsh / Dallas Renaissance Consort — Music of Shakespeare
  • 2 p.m.: Dame Wisteria, Fairy Hero
  • 3 p.m.: Elizabeth Krause — Medieval & Renaissance Music, Hammered Dulcimer
  • 4 p.m.: Passing Winds Ensemble — Bardcore: Pop Gone Bard
  • 5 p.m.: Sydney ZumMallen / The Early Birds — Early, Baroque & Scottish Music
  • 7 p.m.: Macbeth — Presented by Shakespeare LIVE!

On the Levitt Lawn: Syndicate Academy of Sword and Skill

Children’s Class. Ever wanted to wield a sword? Join duelist Francisco Alvarez de la Vega as he demonstrates the techniques and weapons of the Renaissance. De la Vega will not only teach you and your young ones the history of these techniques, but also how to defend and attack with them. This is a hands-on experience that is fun for all ages.

Challenge the Duelist. Have you ever wanted to fight your friends or challenge someone to a duel? All ages may come and challenge the duelist Francisco Alvarez de la Vega, or you may challenge your friends! Come and throw down the challenge and fight!

  • 1–1:30 p.m.: Children’s Show
  • 1:30–2 p.m.: Dueling Ring
  • 2:30–3:00 p.m.: Children’s Show
  • 3–3:30 p.m.: Dueling Ring

Free admission. Find more details at www.createtexas.art

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