Sarasota Medieval Fair at Woods of Mallaranny in Florida is the place to go if you're looking for a rare and exciting event. With an eye for medieval culture, this fair provides a genuine glimpse into Middle-Ages life, replete with jousting knights, wandering minstrels, and delectable food. Plenty of vendors will sell anything from homemade goods to armor and weapons, so visitors will be spoilt for choice.
Jousting is one of the main highlights of the fair. New Riders of the Golden Age present staged theatrical medieval jousts with period equipment and authentic full-contact combat. The riders use amazing Belgian, Percheron, Shire, and Clydesdale horses and full suits of period-designed tilting armor. Human Combat Chess is an action-packed performance that recreates the Battle of Agincourt between the English and French armies in 1415 A.D. Other interesting performances include fire eating, juggling, birds of prey, martial arts, and a wooden wheel of death.
Plenty of family-friendly entertainment is available at Children's Realm, including free activities and performances meant to entertain and educate the young guests on the history, culture, and traditions of the Renaissance period.
The Sarasota Medieval Fair runs from 10 am to 5:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. General admission is $23.95, children (4-10) pay $12.95, and children aged 3 and under get in for free. Seniors, Students, and Military get a discounted admission of $20.95. Parking is free. If you wish to enjoy the fair with fewer crowds, the opening weekend is the best time to come. Also, crowds are typically thinner on Sundays than on Saturdays.
