Hastings Medieval Festival: Step Back in Time This Labour Day Weekend

September 5–7, 2026 | 122 Dunlay Road Hastings, Trent Hills

Step back in time this Labour Day weekend at the 11th Annual Hastings Medieval Festival!

For three days, Hastings comes alive with sword fighting, medieval entertainment, musicians, falconry, merchants, artisans and hands-on activities for the whole family.

Throughout the weekend, different styles of sword fighting will be showcased in the main list area. After the demonstrations, visitors can stop by the groups’ booths to meet the fighters, learn more about their techniques and get a closer look at their equipment.

You can also catch special performers throughout the festival, browse medieval-inspired wares from visiting merchants and artisans, and try activities including axe throwing, spear throwing and archery.

The festival takes place rain or shine, so come prepared for a full medieval experience!

Festival Hours

Saturday, September 5: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 6: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Monday, September 7: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Each day features a different lineup of special guests, demonstrations and sword fighting groups.

Trent Hills: Where Small Town Charm Creates Big Time Memories

Turn your visit into a full weekend escape. Stay overnight and discover even more throughout Trent Hills:

  • Visit  Pisces Pete
  • Enjoy local restaurants and cafés, like Bridgewater Cafe & Pizza, The Nook Cafe, Captains Table Fish & Chips, Jiangs Restaurant, Lady B’s Bistro, McGillicafeys Pub and Eatery, Roma’s Pizzeria, Square Boy Pizza, and Subway. 
  • Plan your overnight stay!

Experience the rural beauty and small-town charm that make Trent Hills a memorable Ontario getaway. Whether you are planning a couples’ getaway, a relaxing road trip with friends, or a spring adventure with family, the Hastings Medieval Festival is the perfect starting point for exploring all that Trent Hills has to offer.

Plan your visit, buy tickets and learn more about the festival at:
https://bladesofglory.ca/festivals/hastings-medieval-festival/

Saturday, September 5:

Special Guests & Entertainment

  • Crime & Punishment with Mistress Jayne
  • Gaasyendietha the Dragon
  • Falconer Gryphon with his hawk Valor
    Sunday, September 6:

    Special Guests & Entertainment

    • Awntari, Celtic folk band
    • Celtic Chase the Armoured Warrior Dog
    • Gaasyendietha the Dragon
    • Falconer Gryphon with his hawk Valor
    • The Executioner and the Dungeon
    • Plus more to be announced!
      Monday, September 7

      The pirates arrive on Monday! Catch the Pirate Invasion and watch pirates and knights face off as part of the day’s entertainment.

      Special Guests & Entertainment

      • Capt’n Tor & The Naer-Do-Well Cads Pirate Invasion
      • Pirate vs. Knight Battle
      • The Executioner and the Dungeon
      • Gaasyendietha the Dragon
      • Falconer Gryphon with his hawk Valor
      • Plus more to be announced!

        Don’t just watch the action—join in! Activities are available throughout the festival for different ages and skill levels.

        • Axe Throwing – adult and child versions
        • Archery – adult and child versions
        • Challenge A Knight – for children under 10
        • Sword Accuracy – Stabbing a Circle
        • Sword Cutting
        • Balloon Head Spear Pop
        • Cornhole

        Medieval Festival FAQs

        Are pets allowed? 

        The festival is dog friendly, as long as the dog is leashed, controlled, and clean up after it. 

        Does the festival run if it rains?

        Yes. The Hastings Medieval Festival takes place rain or shine.

        Is the festival family-friendly?

        Yes! There are activities and entertainment for the whole family, including child-friendly versions of axe throwing and archery, Challenge A Knight for children under 10, demonstrations, performers and more.

        Are the same performers there every day?

        The lineup changes throughout the weekend, with different special guests, entertainment and sword fighting groups scheduled each day.

        Can I meet the sword fighters?

        Yes. Sword fighting groups showcase their different fighting styles in the main list area, and visitors can stop by their booths afterwards to learn more and speak with participants.

        Will there be shopping at the festival?

        Yes. A variety of merchants and artisans will be attending with medieval-inspired products, handcrafted goods and other unique finds.

        Can I participate in activities?

        Yes! Activities include axe throwing, archery, sword accuracy, sword cutting, Balloon Head Spear Pop, Cornhole and Challenge A Knight for children under 10.

        Can I bring my sword?

        No. Weapons brought by visitors are not permitted at the festival

        Hastings Medieval Festival
        activities (1)
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