What’s at the Festival
December 5–6 & 12–13, 2026 · El Monte County Park, Lakeside
Jousting, battles and performers
Meet St Nick, Krampus, and others. Then watch the joust and fights, or a more peaceful turn with the musicians and performers.
Knights test their skill in tournament, and the guilds stage a battle pageant once a day. The festival’s reenactments include the Battle of Meaux, the last military campaign of Henry V’s lifetime.
Watch for the King’s Procession, when the guilds parade through the festival, and for minstrels, jesters, musicians and storytellers around the grounds.
Living history: England, 1420
The festival is set in England in the year 1420, in the closing years of King Henry V’s reign. Reenactor guilds set up period encampments and give historical demonstrations, and guild members are on hand at the gate and around the grounds to answer questions.
St. Nicholas and Father Christmas
Meet St. Nicholas, Santa Claus and figures drawn from medieval history and European folklore.
St. Nicholas of Myra appears in bishop’s mitre and red vestments, Father Christmas in red velvet and fur, and St. Nicholas joins King Henry V at the St. Nicholas Day Feast.
The artisan marketplace
Shops from weapons to whimsy. Our shops have all manner of artisans. Along with many other offerings.
Booths are dressed in period style. Bring some cash: there is no cell signal at the park, and ATMs are on site.
Food and drink
Your choices are many, and all delicious. From turkey legs to meat pies. Vegetarian options too!
Food vendors serve throughout the grounds all weekend, so you do not need a feast ticket to eat well. The full list of food and drink vendors will be posted here before the festival.
The seated meal is separate: the St. Nicholas Day Feast is five courses at the King’s table with entertainment between courses ($85.00; Kids Feast $65.00). Alcohol is served only by permitted providers.
The daily schedule has not been published yet. Photos: festival gallery.