Music is of course central to the Renaissance Festival’s shire! Bagpipes, harps, flutes, drums, violins, song and more fill the lanes from the moment the front gates open until the cannon sounds at closing gate.

Forty thousand pounds of world famous turkey legs are on their way to Fittlesworth as well as a host of other treats found only at the Renaissance Festival. At every turn artisans can be seen demonstrating their talents in a wide variety of media. Ceramic ware, jewelry, clothing, accessories, games and toys, blown glass and intricate leather work can all be found with a 16th century spin found only at the Renaissance Festival. The process to exhibit at the Renaissance Festival includes a jury procedure that begins for the artisan’s months in advance for only the finest craftspeople. Only a little over 100 exhibitors are honored each year.

Children learn about a time of queens, knights, princesses, elves, faeries, dragons and magic. Additional offerings include the Feast of Fantasy, an exquisite six-course meal complete with entertainment and souvenirs, the Royal High Tea with the Queen and the Renaissance Smoker, a bawdy production for adults only.

The Bay Area Renaissance Festival is located in Tampa, Fl., off I-75, exit number 265/FL-582, on Fowler Ave & 46th St, next to MOSI. It takes place for seven weekends in 2008: February 23 – April 6, and March 28 for school day. The village gates open at 10 a.m., and closes at 6 p.m., rain or shine. Tickets cost $16.95 for adults, $8.95 for children 5-12 years old, free for children four years and younger. Discount tickets are available at MOSI, area Albertson’s, ClicknPrint Tickets at http://www.renaissancefest.com/, and area. Parking is free.