The Spirit of the Trade
Trinket trading is a cherished tradition within the renaissance faire community. It is the exchange of small tokens offered as gestures of goodwill, connection, and playful mischief.
We welcome trinket trading wholeheartedly at the Chattanooga Renaissance Faire, with a few simple guidelines to help keep the magic alive for everyone.
What Makes a Proper Trinket
Trinkets should be small, humble, and heartfelt. Think handmade charms, painted stones, beaded bracelets, ribbons, tiny scrolls, small figurines, or curious objects.
They should hold sentimental value, not monetary value (generally under $2). These are gifts of the spirit, not goods of commerce.
A good rule of thumb: if it fits comfortably in the palm of your hand, it’s a proper trinket.
For safety reasons, please do not trade:
- Food or drink
- Sharp objects
- Glass or easily breakable items
- Adult or explicit items
- Anything unsafe for children
The Code of the Trader
Honor the Merchants
Our vendors have paid for their place in the market square and worked hard to fill it. Never offer a trinket as payment for their wares, and never trade items that resemble what they sell. If your crafts are that good, consider becoming a vendor yourself!
No Hawking Without a Charter
Accepting coin, or anything of real value, in exchange for trinkets is vending, plain and simple. Vending requires a paid vendor permit. Those found selling without one may be asked to pack up their wares and leave the grounds.
Mind the Little Ones
When trading with children, get a nod from a parent or guardian first, and make sure your trinket is safe for small hands.
Read the Room
Avoid trading during performances, in crowded vendor aisles, or anywhere you might disrupt the festivities. Find a quiet corner and let the exchange be a moment of joy, not an interruption.
Participating Merchants
Some vendors have chosen to join the trinket trading fun! Participating merchants will be marked on the festival map, so keep an eye out for friendly traders throughout the market.
Please remember that vendors are still running their businesses, so trading may only happen when they have a free moment.
Final Word
Trinket trading exists to spread joy, creativity, and a little mischief throughout the realm. Whether you leave with a tiny treasure or simply a delightful interaction, we hope it adds to the enchantment of the day.
Violations of this policy may result in removal of trading privileges or removal from the festival. Festival staff have the final word, they are usually quite kind about it.