Colonial Faire at Riley’s Farm is a family-friendly, interactive cultural event aimed at entertaining and educating the public about life in the American colonies in the late 18th Century, so join us for a day filled with fun, feasting, history, and outdoor adventure in scenic Oak Glen!
A bustling New England village comes to life in Oak Glen in July as Colonial Chesterfield hosts interactive dramatic presentations, swordplay demonstrations and duels of honor, music and theatre, old-fashioned games, hands-on activities and classic sports like tomahawk throwing and archery (ages 8+), colonial crafts like candle dipping and weaving, and unique shopping with local artisans and colonial sutlers.
Culinary delights abound in the Hawk’s Head Public House, which serves hearty country comfort cuisine, fine wines, ales, and hard ciders. We also provide a charming beer garden where you can enjoy a refreshing ale out of our authentic pewter tankards. Our famous on-site bakery will craft plenty of five-pound apple pies and seasonal pastries.
TICKETS, DATES, AND HOURSSet in Chesterfield, New Hampshire in the year 1774, Faire takes place from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on the following dates:
Weekend 1 – July 1, 2 & 4
Weekend 2 – July 8 & 9
Weekend 3 – July 15 & 16
Weekend 4 – July 23
How much is admission? What does the admission price include?
At the Gate: Adult Single Day is $25, Child (age 3-12) Single Day is $20
Advance Web Purchase (available February 1st): Adult Single Day is $17, Child (age 3-12) Single Day is $12
Group Rates (15 people +): Adult Single Day is $15, Child (age 3-12) Single Day is $10 – PLUS one complimentary admission for every 15 attendees!
Children age 3 and younger receive complimentary admission to the faire!
Will fruit picking be available during the faire?
Patrons who wish to pick fresh strawberries during the event should check in at the Colonial Mercantile before entering the patch to check daily crop status and purchase a berry picking container.
Is the event “cash only”?
We happily accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or cash to purchase your admission tickets. We do not run debit transactions or take Discover, however. While vendors are free to make their own payment policies, most accept credit cards as well as cash.
Can I leave the Faire and come back in?
Yes, your wristband will guarantee re-admission to the fairegrounds if you need to leave and return later the same day.
PARKING INFORMATION
Is there a parking fee?
Parking is free! We do not charge a fee for parking in any of the available lots on Riley’s Farm.
Is there RV parking available? May we remain overnight?
Complimentary space for RV parking is available from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on the day of the event. Overnight parking is available only to reenactors who are participating in the event’s period encampment. Email info@rileysfarm.com for details.
FOOD AND DRINK
May we bring outside food and drink?
No outside food and drink is permitted at this event.
Do you have vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free foods available for purchase?
Yes, in the Hawk’s Head Public House.
COSTUMES AND WEAPONS
Do I have to come in costume?
Although many guests arrive in colonial attire, it is not required by any means. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and good walking shoes. Come dressed to play!
If I wear a costume do I get in for free?
While we welcome any of our guests to arrive in period attire, unfortunately at this time we are unable to grant free admission for such.
Are shoes required?
Yes. Due to safety and insurance requirements all guests are required to wear shoes at all times. Note that some cast members may appear in bare feet for dramatic presentations on a limited basis.
May I bring my (costume) weapon?
Yes, with the following standard stipulations: All blades are to be “peace-tied” and shall remain sheathed. All flintlocks are to be unloaded, and no powder or ball are permitted on Farm property. No other firearms are permitted, and all are subject to inspection. Bows must be unstrung, or strung with a medium not capable of firing. Only target tipped arrows are permitted, and must remain in a quiver at all times. The constable will be on patrol to ensure public safety.
May I bring my instrument?
To avoid excessive busking, outside instruments are not permitted.
MISC. AND POLICIES
What other amenities are available?
Is the Faire wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with the understanding that this event is held outdoors. We do not rent wheelchairs or scooters.
May I bring a pet?
The health and safety of your pet is our concern. Due to the nature of the show, the faire can be a high-stress environment for some animals and is not a suitable destination for household pets. Service animals under the ADA are welcome!
Is smoking allowed?
Due to high fire danger, smoking is only permitted in the Colonial Chesterfield parking lot. Note that some cast members may employ the use of a colonial clay pipe and tobacco as part of their presentation on a limited basis.
Do you have a Lost & Found?
Yes, located in the Guard Shack in Colonial Chesterfield.
Are there hotels near the faire?
Yes. Our suggestions for overnight accommodations can be found here.
What if it rains?
Rain or shine, the show must go on! No refunds or rainchecks are offered in the (unlikely) event of inclement weather.
What is your photography policy?
| YOU MAY BE VIDEO TAPED OR RECORDED Colonial Faire has been chosen as the preferred location for many various film, tape and transmitted productions. Anyone who attends the Faire may be filmed, taped, or be transmitted via the internet. By choosing to enter the Faire grounds one gives up the right to privacy regarding trademarks, images, and likenesses.The holder of a ticket to the Faire grants permission to the Riley’s Farm, Colonial Faire and it’s agents to utilize the holder’s image or likeness incidental to any live or recorded video display or other transmission or reproduction in whole or in part of the event in which this admits the holder. |
We welcome you when the farm is open to the public! With the exception of commercial film, video and still photography, we do not charge a fee or require a release for farm friends taking portraits, so please respect the following requirements:
