The Hattiesburg Zoo will hold its ninth annual Renaissance Festival on Feb. 22 and 23, featuring performances, costumes, knighting ceremonies, and animal encounters.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Admission is $10 for children and $12 for adults. The festival, a long-standing tradition at the zoo, offers a family-friendly experience aimed at celebrating and learning about Renaissance culture.
“Renaissance Fest at the Hattiesburg Zoo is bigger than ever this year with more entertainment and hands-on learning opportunities to enjoy,” said Jeremy Cumpton, the zoo’s Director of Conservation and Education.
Visitors will have the chance to experience Renaissance-era entertainment, including performances and demonstrations. Food stalls will offer period-themed meals, and guests are encouraged to dress in Renaissance costumes.
“I think that it is really amazing that the zoo has combined a renaissance festival with the normal attractions,” said Gerard Isabelle, a local medieval enthusiast. “Because you would never think of combining the two things. It is really cool!”
The entertainment schedule starts at 11 a.m. and includes performances from Irish Dance MS and the University of Southern Mississippi’s pre-1750 Music History class, Shakespearean scenes, princess story time, soap-making demonstrations, a knighting ceremony, and a costume contest.
Guests can also participate in a quest for knighthood by completing various tasks, such as watching performances, learning crafts, and participating in swordplay. Successful participants can attend a knighting ceremony at 1 p.m. or 3:30 p.m.
New attractions this year include demonstrations by the Mississippi Forge Council and child-safe axe throwing. Popular activities, such as archery and up-close animal encounters, will also return.
Tickets for the festival are available at the gate, and annual passes apply. Attraction tickets for the carousel and High Adventures Ropes Course are sold separately. Visitors are encouraged to wear Renaissance-period costumes, but real weapons are not allowed.
