OCTOBER 31, 2026
11AM - 7PM
JACKSON'S FIRST
RENAISSANCE ARTS FESTIVAL
ShakesFest is an immersive Renaissance-inspired arts festival centered around a free public production of Hamlet. Produced by Hub City Theatre Company, the festival transforms The AMP into a lively community gathering space — filled with live music, local artisans, food vendors, roaming performers, interactive activities, and theatrical performances throughout the day. It's a full day of culture, community, and a little bit of magic, all free and open to everyone.
WHAT TO EXPECT
🎭 Free Hamlet Performances
A full professional production of Shakespeare's most iconic tragedy, performed live on The AMP stage at 2:00 and 7:30.
Additional performances before the festival on 10/29 & 10/30 at 7:30
🎵 Live Music
Musicians, buskers, and roaming entertainers throughout the day keeping the energy alive.
🛖 Artisan Village
Local makers, crafters, and vendors bringing the Renaissance marketplace to life.
🍖 Food & Themed Treats
Food trucks and vendors serving up festival fare with a Renaissance twist.
⚔️ Interactive Activities
Costume contests, stick horse races, audience games, festival prizes, and more.
👨👩👧 Family Friendly
A welcoming, all-ages event designed for the whole West Tennessee community.
Parking for ShakesFest
Coming to ShakesFest? Find a free downtown parking lot, park your car, and enjoy the festival and downtown Jackson at your own pace, with no time limits!
While you're in town, take a stroll through downtown and check out the local shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and other businesses participating in the RennFaire Ramble. You might discover a special Renaissance-inspired treat, a themed drink, or a little something unexpected along the way!
Free Downtown Parking Locations:
N Highland Ave & E Lafayette St
E College St & N Church St
E Baltimore St & S Church St
W Main St
N Highland Ave & E College St
Park, explore, and make a day of it. Happy ShakesFest!
become a
festival sponsor
ShakesFest would not be possible without the support of businesses who believe in the power of arts and community. By becoming a festival sponsor, you're helping make a free, high-quality cultural experience possible for all of West Tennessee, while putting your brand in front of a crowd of families, arts patrons, and regional visitors who are engaged, enthusiastic, and paying attention.
Download our full sponsorship packet below for a complete breakdown of levels, benefits, and featured opportunities. Ready to talk? Reach out and let's find the right fit for your business.
Our Valued Partners
Our Sponsors
