King Richard’s Faire Returns for 2026 With Expanded Carvershire, New Shows, and Upgraded Dining
CARVER (WBSM) — As King Richard’s Faire opens for its 45th season – and second in its new version of “Carvershire” – there are plenty of new attractions, new foods, new shows and new ways to travel back to the time of the 16th Century.
Last year, King Richard’s Faire moved from its original home off Main Street in Carver, Massachusetts where it had spent over four decades, to the site that was formerly Edaville Railroad (now known as the Edaville Entertainment Center).
Because of the timing with last year’s move, some of the structures needed for King Richard’s Faire last season were still under construction, even as the 2025 season got underway. Now, with an entire year under the King’s royal belt, the 200-acre footprint bears even more resemblance to a true 16th Century kingdom.
King Richard XI and Queen Anne III welcomed some invited guests to the new and improved Carvershire on Friday for a sneak peek at what the 2026 season has to offer.
What's New in Carvershire for 2026: More Buildings, More Vendors
With extra time to prepare for this season, the construction crews have built many new permanent structures across the grounds. Last year, many vendors who had to operate out of tents are now housed in period-appropriate huts and shops.
There are 20 new shops for 2026, bringing the total number of artisans to over 110. There is truly something for everyone.
READ MORE: How Much Each Ride Went for at the Edaville Auction
Edaville’s former museum building is now a museum of sorts for King Richard’s Faire, with a tribute inside to all of the former King Richards and Queen Annes. It is also the location of the Feast Hall for those who wish to hold their event at the faire, such as weddings or other get-togethers.
The Gaming Pit now has more games and rides permanently housed in what was formerly Edaville’s Alpine Village (and Thomas Land before that).
The jousting field also has a new viewing structure for those who purchase VIP experiences.
Of course, there remains regular seating in the bleachers, but some may want an upgraded (and shaded) experience.
You can choose from a second-level seat that overlooks the field, or select a first-level eight-person cabana for the closest seat possible to the action.
Considering how popular the jousts are, and the metal bleachers will fill up quickly, reserving a VIP seat will guarantee you can catch one at the time of your choosing.
Not only will there be jousts multiple times daily, but there will also be an acrobatic horse show, featuring Roman-style riding and American trick riding.
Expanded Shows and Entertainment Stages
Speaking of shows, the 11 stages across Carvershire will come alive with multiple performances daily. In fact, there are over 70 shows happening each day. New shows include family-friendly fare such as The Puppies of Penzance, a pirate-themed show featuring trained dogs, and Captain Robbie, the Pirate Magician.
For those who like the bawdier shows, there are the new Flawed Flirtations, and the returning Washing Well Wenches, a King Richard’s Faire favorite.
The brand-new King’s Stage is ready to host a number of productions throughout the season, including this year’s revue, Hell No, Dolly. The two-story structure will also host whip shows in the last two weeks of October, including the ever-popular Jacques ze Whipper.
Located next to the King’s Stage is the Sword Master’s Challenge, featuring six rings where knights and knaves of all ages can do battle, either against one another or against trained staff.
Updated Food, Drinks, and Amenities
One thing everyone looks forward to at King Richard’s Faire is feasting on some of its beloved foods. Of course, the giant turkey legs are back, as well as many other returning favorites.
There are also many new items as well this year such as Queen Anne’s Chili Bowl, a bread bowl filled with vegetarian chili (and available without cheese on top for vegans).
A new food stand, The King’s Meats, will feature steak on a stick, with other meats available as well.
For those feeding their own little village, or are just really hungry themselves, there are double-portion meals that feature two burgers, two hot dogs, or eight chicken fingers, all of which come with two pounds of french fries. There’s also a new creamery serving up ice cream, a fresh fruits and vegetables stand, and more.
As for drinks, multiple new bars have been built around Carvershire. New offerings include the Queen’s Pina Colada Meade, with a pineapple-coconut flavor to it. It will be served in a can with the Queen’s photo on it. Likewise, King Richard will be featured on cans of the new King’s Brew.
Free Water Available at King Richard's Faire
King Richard’s Faire now offers two free water bubblers, one at each end of the park. They are not only available for a cool drink, but you can also use them to fill up bottles as well.
Ryan Roy, Vice President of Production for King Richard’s Faire, confirmed to WBSM that fairegoers will be allowed to bring in reusable water bottles to fill up inside the faire, provided that they are empty upon entry.
How to Pay at King Richard's Faire
While longtime King Richard’s Faire visitors are familiar with the system of purchasing tickets for food and drink, that’s not the only way to pay these days. While it may be the 16th Century in spirit, the technology at the faire is right out of 2026, with credit cards, debit cards and digital payments accepted throughout.
How to Get Tickets for King Richard's Faire
King Richard’s Faire is open weekends from September 5 through October 25, as well as Labor Day and Columbus Day. Each weekend has a specific theme, and VIP experiences, pub crawls and more are also available. Prices increase as the season goes on, so grab your tickets now at KingRichardsFaire.net. Tickets are also available at the box office at the park, but most weekends sell out so online and in advance is your best bet.
And what a difference a year makes! Take a look at how King Richard's Faire looked last season heading into its first season in the new Carvershire:
A Look at King Richard's Faire in Its New Home at Edaville
Gallery Credit: Tim Weisberg
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