Less than two weeks after announcing the Minnesota Renaissance Festival would not be happening due to COVID-19, organizers announced that an alternative drive-thru experience would be offered instead.

Drawing inspiration from the Minnesota State Fair's drive-thru food parade, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival shared an update late last week to say that they would be offering a drive-thru "Renaissance Festival on Parade" this year instead. That came just days after announcing this year's Ren Fest was cancelled due to COVID-19.

"The first-ever Minnesota Renaissance Festival on Parade is a drive-through experience featuring over 30 of your favorite Festival foods" organizers shared on Facebook. "There will be exciting entertainment, featured artisans, and a chance to support Minnesota’s great Renaissance Tradition from the comfort and safety of your vehicle!"

Vehicles will follow a 2.5 mile leisurely route through "the realm," and organizers suggest planning a "multi-hour" visit to fully appreciate the "tasty treats, free fun, games, and activities including in vehicle games like Trivia, Festival Find it and a Carriage Costume Contest along the way." Festival foods include Turkey Legs, Unicorn Cake, Cheese Curds, Apple Dumplings, French Fries and more.

Tickets went on sale Friday, September 5 at 10:00am and cost $20 per vehicle. Drive-thru dates are September 19th and 20th, 26th and 27th and October 2-4. As a thank-you for attending the event, each vehicle will receive a Minnesota Renaissance Festival on Parade goodie bag sponsored by Red Bull filled with surprises from sponsors and partners. Dates for 2021's Renaissance Festival have also been announced Aug. 21st – Oct. 3rd, 2021, plus Labor Day, September 6th & Fest Friday, October 1st, 2021.