✦ Ren at the Den ✦
Rules & Regulations
There are always two Ren at the Dens per month — the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, unless otherwise advertised.
FAQ
What is Ren at the Den?
Ren at the Den is a recurring Renaissance-tavern night inside Dragon's Den Tavern at Dragon Distillery — a place for the Ren community (and curious newcomers) to gather, dress up, mingle, and spend a night in the hall.
Can I bring prop weapons?
The prop weapon must specifically fit the theming of a Renaissance costume. Within that, there are two distinct categories.
If a prop weapon is clearly a toy — such as a molded plastic sword — it's allowed without condition.
If a prop could in any way, shape, or form be used as a weapon — whether it's a realistic prop, an artisan recreation, or an actual weapon — it is permitted so long as it is never held in a position that could facilitate its use. That means no holding swords in the air, no drawing a bow (with or without an arrow), and so on.
Modern weaponry, including firearms of any kind, is strictly prohibited — including toys.
We reserve the right to request that any guest return any prop to their vehicle at any time, for any reason.
How much is admission?
Admission is $10 at the door, or $5 plus Eventbrite fees if you grab a presale ticket. The Dragon's Den Tavern maintains the right to ticket any individual event as it sees fit, for any reason — which will be announced via marketing if applicable.
Where do I get tickets?
Tickets, when an event is ticketed, live on our events page. Always use the event page for the most current hours, entertainment, and any special flow rules.
Do I have to dress up?
No — but costumes are strongly encouraged. Come in garb, come in street clothes, come as you are. The point is the night, the music, the people, and the atmosphere.
What are the hours?
Check the event page for your specific date. (Ren at the Den typically runs in the late afternoon/evening.) Last call is set by venue compliance and may be posted for each event.
Is this a sit-down dinner?
Ren at the Den is designed as a tavern party, not a traditional dinner service. There will be seating, but the night is built for movement, mingling, and a lively room.
Is roleplay required?
Never required. Guest-led, always. If you want to stay fully “normal night out,” you'll still fit right in.
Are vendors part of the event?
Yes — there will always be at least one vendor: Freki of Valhalla Crafts, the official Lantern Master of Ren at the Den. When possible, we will also feature a rotating second vendor as well.
What about photos and videos?
Ren at the Den is a highly photographed night — by guests and by our team. By attending, you grant permission for your likeness (photo/video) to be captured and used for marketing and promotional purposes at The Dragon's Den's discretion, including on social media, websites, and other promotional materials. We encourage you to share your photos from the event — especially at the step-and-repeat — and tag us so we can repost and celebrate the night with the community.
Code of Conduct
Ren at the Den is an aggressively inclusive/friendly public event. We're building a community night where everyone feels welcome — Ren veterans, first-timers, and the "I just came for a drink and the vibe" crowd.
At the end of the day, this is still a bar and restaurant — it is not a private club, a festival or a convention. If you behave in any way that is inconsistent with the social norms of that type of a professional hospitality environment, you will be removed — just like any other establishment.
1 Be respectful. Full stop.
No harassment. No intimidation. No unwanted commentary about bodies, costumes, identity, or presence. If you're making someone uncomfortable, you're doing it wrong.
2 Consent is mandatory.
- Always ask before touching someone, adjusting costume pieces, or moving someone's cloak/props.
- Ask before taking close-up photos of someone. A quick “Can I grab a pic?” goes a long way.
- “No” is final.
3 Keep it safe in a crowded room.
- No shoving, no roughhousing, no aggressive dancing in tight spaces.
- Keep aisles, doorways, and the bar line clear when asked.
- If staff asks you to shift, pause, or relocate — that's not a suggestion.
4 Alcohol behavior
Drink with honor. If someone is visibly intoxicated, disruptive, or unsafe, staff may cut service and/or remove them from the event. (We're not negotiating safety.)
5 Hate symbols / threats / violence
Instant removal. No warnings.
6 Staff authority / right to refuse service
This is a live venue with real-world responsibilities. Staff may refuse service or remove guests for behavior that threatens the safety, comfort, or function of the room. If you need help at any point, tell a bartender or staff member immediately.
7 Prop weapons
The prop weapon must specifically fit the theming of a Renaissance costume. Within that, two distinct categories. If a prop weapon is clearly a toy — such as a molded plastic sword — it's allowed without condition. If a prop could in any way, shape, or form be used as a weapon — whether a realistic prop, an artisan recreation, or an actual weapon — it is permitted so long as it is never held in a position that could facilitate its use: no holding swords in the air, no drawing a bow (with or without an arrow), and so on. Modern weaponry, including firearms of any kind, is strictly prohibited — including toys. We reserve the right to request that any guest return any prop to their vehicle at any time, for any reason.
Accessibility
If you have mobility needs or need accommodation, let staff know. We'll make it work.
Last Call
Due to our unique status as a "distillery tasting room," we are legally required to cut alcohol and food service off immediately at 8:30 PM, and have the room completely cleared out no later than 9:15 PM. If you feel that you are being rushed out, please understand that we are simply trying to honor the law and remain in good standing. We hope to obtain a less strict liquor license in the near future.
Dress Code (Costume + Safety Policy)
Ren at the Den is costume-forward — but we still have to keep the room safe, compliant, and usable.
What's encouraged
- Renaissance / fantasy garb, tavern looks, guild fits, cloaks, corsets, leathers, pirate kits, court outfits, etc.
- Comfortable footwear (you'll be standing/walking more than you think).
- Layers — the room can run warm or cool, so wear something you can adjust.
What's not encouraged
- Intentionally off-theme costumes (showing up as a Power Ranger “for laughs” takes away from the vibe for everyone).
- Anything of great value that's easily damaged or stained.
What's required
- Shoes required.
- Keep it family-friendly — we're still a bar and restaurant. Costume culture at the actual Renaissance Festival can be a freeing, body-positive form of expression; ours is dialed back a few beats. Simple test: if it would be inappropriate to wear to Applebee's, it's probably inappropriate for Ren at the Den.
What's not allowed (or may be refused at the door)
- Anything that blocks walkways or creates crowd hazards.
- Hate symbols or explicit/obscene imagery.
Costume props (simple rule)
If it can hurt someone, scare someone, or cause confusion in a crowded bar, leave it at home. When in doubt, bring it up before the event or be prepared to return it to your car.
Masks / face coverage
Allowed when it fits the event vibe — but you may be asked to briefly remove it for entry checks or service compliance.