Bozeman, Mont. — The 2026 Bozeman Renaissance Fair turned the Gallatin County Fairgrounds into a medieval village over the weekend.
The event is in its third year after organizers said it began as an experimental gathering in 2024, growing into an established celebration by 2026.
Co-owner and co-manager of the Bozeman and Missoula Renaissance Fairs Sam Viall says these events continue to build momentum each year they are held.
“It's definitely gotten a lot more popular. Our first year here, we were blown away by the attendance and every year since then, we've had more and more, so it's just been nice to see the whole operation grow,” said Viall.
Visitors at the Bozeman Renaissance Festival found jousting, local vendors and a range of performers. Organizers said everyone was invited to join in, whether they arrived as king, queen, wizard or warrior.
For performer Florindo Mercado of 22 Crows Company, the weekend carried a personal connection beyond playing a role.
“Putting on my armor and my garb and everything kind of sets the tone. Everyone is always happy at a ren fair, that's what I love, so If I could do one every weekend, I would be,” said Mercado.
Mercado said he has been taking part in events like this for nearly two decades, finding joy in embracing a character.
“Started, oh about 16-18 years ago doing Amtgard, larping. It's fun. This is, this is weird. This is the strange. We are the crazy people, you know? We are the wildcats, you know? So, ren fairs are fun. We all get to be ourselves,” said Mercado.
He also had a message for people attending for the first time at the Bozeman event.
“No one will be out of place at a ren fair. No one's going to judge you, you know? If this is your first costume, that's awesome dude, you started; just keep going,” said Mercado.
The fair concludes on Sunday, August 23. For more information, visit bozemanrenfest.com