May 16, 2026 – Field Trip: Virginia Renaissance Faire

NVPS May 2026 Field Trip

For the May 2026 Field Trip we are exploring a new venue that is a bit further afield from many of our previous excursions.

Step back in time and bring your camera along for the Northern Virginia Photographic Society’s May field trip to the Virginia Renaissance Faire. This historically inspired outdoor event offers a visually engaging environment populated by costumed performers, musicians, and interpreters whose activities evoke the pageantry and rhythms of Renaissance life. Throughout the grounds, we will encounter staged performances and informal street scenes that lend themselves to images emphasizing gesture, expression, costume detail, and atmosphere.

The Faire’s diverse entertainment—including live music, comedic and dramatic performances, demonstrations of historical skills, and equestrian events such as jousting—provides opportunities to explore both dynamic action and quieter observational moments. This field trip is well suited to candid work, environmental portraiture, and visual storytelling in an active public setting where timing and anticipation play an important role. Participants are encouraged to work thoughtfully, observe respectfully, and enjoy a shared day of photography and conversation.

When

Saturday May 16, 2026. The Faire is open from 10 AM to 5 PM.

As pre-purchase of tickets is required, the event is held rain or shine, and the tickets cannot be exchanged so we are not proposing an alternate or rain date. (There is a limited refund policy documented on the ticket site if your personal plans change.)

This event requires individuals to purchase tickets. See the TicketSpice FAQ page for the refund policy. 

Cost

Tickets are available online ONLY, please purchase your tickets for Saturday May 16 early to avoid disappointment.

VA Renaissance Faire Tickets via “ticketspice.com”

Adult Ticket (17-64): $18
Senior (65+): $12
Child (6-16): $10
Under 5: Free

Where

Lake Anna Winery
5621 Courthouse Road
Spotsylvania, VA

Additional Information

Google Maps travel time from the 7 Corners area of Northern Virginia to Lake Anna Winery is predicted to be 1:15 to 1:45 on Saturday mornings, approximately 75 miles.

Lots of additional information and a list of acts can be found at Virginia Renaissance Faire website (varf.org)

Equipment and Notes

      • Your Normal “walk-about” lens (24-70 mm or similar will work well much of the time
      • A telephoto lens for demonstrations and performances
      • While many of us are experienced in many photography environments, please remember the following for this environment:
        • Respect performances and performers. Do not interrupt scheduled shows, step onto stages, or block sight lines while photographing. Performers are actively working, and audience flow is part of the experience.
        • Ask before close-up portraits. For posed or close-range photographs of performers or visitors–especially between shows–always ask permission and respect a refusal.
        • Be mindful of space and movement. Avoid obstructing walkways, entrances, or crowd circulation, and stay are of others when repositioning or using longer lenses.
        • Use flash cautiously. Flash may be distracting or inappropriate during live performances or demonstrations; use it sparingly and only where it will not interfere with performers or guests.
        • Photograph with courtesy. A friendly approach and respectful behavior help ensure a positive experience for everyone and often lead to better photographic opportunities.

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