Fargo, ND – Broadway Square is set to trade its modern charm for medieval splendor as the Night Bazaar: Renaissance returns to downtown Fargo on Thursday, June 26th. From 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, this free, family-friendly street carnival will transport attendees to a bygone era of knights, queens, and jesters, offering an enchanting evening of wonder, whimsy, and renaissance revelry.
Hosted by Folkways, the event promises a complete transformation of the heart of downtown into a bustling marketplace reminiscent of a medieval fair. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the theme, with invitations to don their finest Renaissance attire, whether as a noble queen, a comical jester, or a curious traveler ready for an adventure.
The evening will be a feast for the senses, with a diverse lineup of food vendors offering a taste of both local and international flavors. Festival-goers can indulge in Mediterranean cuisine, savor the offerings of Deb’s Corner Foods, enjoy the vibrant tastes of Saigon Kuisine, or warm up with a cup from Namaste Chai Kitchen. Other culinary delights will include Oh Crepe!, Little Brother, and Mac Daddy’s. For those with a sweet tooth, Treat Theater, Prairie Cakes and Botanicals, and Big Kernel’s Popcorn will be on hand. To quench their thirst, attendees can enjoy libations from Drekker Brewing and Front Street Taproom or grab a refreshing drink from Kones Kreamery.
A sprawling artist market will feature over 30 local artists and makers, providing a treasure trove of handmade goods, vintage finds, and unique creative works. Shoppers can wander through stalls from Brenna M & Co, Curbside Vintage, Printsmith Studios, Wildflower & Co., Sum Artifex, and Free Soul Candle Co, among many others.
The immersive experience will be brought to life through a full schedule of performances and entertainment. The festivities will officially commence with an Opening Ceremony at 6:00 PM, followed by a captivating belly dancing performance, live music, and various cultural showcases. The atmosphere will be further enhanced by the presence of wandering minstrels, a juggling jester troupe, and the majestic appearance of a Renaissance Queen. Sword-fencing demonstrations, roaming characters, and mystical readings by Kaiva Rose Astrology and Mystical Methods will complete the fantasy.
For those seeking to deepen their engagement with the renaissance theme, a $20 Experience Punchcard will be available for purchase at the information booth. This pass will grant access to a variety of hands-on activities, including inflatable jousting, an aerial demonstration, cotton candy, popcorn, balloon animals, and hair braiding. The punchcards offer a flexible way to enjoy the festivities and can be used at any of the upcoming Night Bazaar events.
This renaissance fair is the latest in a series of themed events organized by Folkways, an organization dedicated to creating immersive experiences that foster a sense of community and belonging. By collaborating with local artists, musicians, and small business owners, Folkways aims to address key community issues such as workforce retention and economic vitality.
Future Night Bazaar events to mark on the calendar include: Night Bazaar: Circus on July 24th, Night Bazaar: Magic on September 18th, and a spooky-themed bazaar on October 30th.
