Release Date: May 8,2025

Akron Zoo to Host First-Ever Renaissance Faire

May 8, 2025, AKRON, Ohio – The Akron Zoo is hosting its first Renaissance Faire on Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The family friendly event is included with general admission and free for Akron Zoo members.

The event will feature a large vendor area, live performances including live Dungeons and Dragons, live blacksmithing and sword fighting demonstrations. Akron Glass Works will offer glass blowing demonstrations, plus the Green Dragon Inn will provide a board game area and LANfest will offer a video game area.

Guests are encouraged to dress in costume and there will be a costume contest for different age ranges with prizes, hosted by Rubber City Cosplay. However, adults are prohibited from covering faces with costume masks, mascot heads or face paint. Real weapons are not permitted into the zoo, including swords, maces and axes. Fake, plastic weapons are permitted.

The Akron Zoo is open 361 days a year. Peak season hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission rates are $11 – $21. Children under two are free and parking is free. For more information visit www.akronzoo.org or call (330) 375-2550.

Founded in 1953, the Akron Zoo is a non-profit, world conservation zoo with more than 2,000 animals from around the world. Located just west of Downtown Akron, the zoo strives to connect your life to wildlife while inspiring lifelong learning and conservation action. The Akron Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats.