Bristol Renaissance Faire

Hear Ye hear ye, summer has arrived and the Bristol Renaissance Faire is in full swing. I have been coming to this event for about the last 20 years and every year the magic and fun never disappoints. 

Located on the border of Illinois and Wisconsin this is a must for any age. This 30 acre site transports you back to the 16th century where queens, kings, minstrels and jesters stroll around greeting everyone and engaging the faire goers with fun and frivolity. You literally feel as if you have been transported back to the days of yore. In addition there are numerous marketplaces where you can purchase jewelry, hand crafted leather, hammocks, make your own candles and watch glass blowing to name a few. 

Included in the price of admission are the numerous shows, some which engage the audiences directly. Some of the more popular shows are the falconeer, jousting, the ever popular mud show and Mr. Mooney. Be sure to check the schedules for some of these as the stands fill up pretty quickly. One of the favorites of my family through the years is the Tomato Justice. They egg you on with comments (all in good fun)  in an effort to have you throw the tomatoes and try to hit them. As you walk along the faire grounds there are shows going on all over and there is even a queens parade. It is constant fun everywhere you turn. 

One of the highlights of course are  the food and beverages. Be sure to check out the mushrooms in garlic butter sauce, a favorite of mine. A couple more popular items are the giant turkey legs (not for the faint of heart), sassafras, fish and chips and orange and lemon sorbet to name a few. There is beer cider, and lots of alcohol and non alcoholic beverages to choose from. Also numerous items on sticks including cheesecake and pickles. 

It is hard not to spend the day here and have a wonderful time making great memories with family and friends. For all the years I have been coming it is still one of the highlights of my summer. 

A few things to note: the food and beverage are not included in the ticket price. Also it can get pretty hot there so be sure to stay hydrated. The faire is open through September 4 every Saturday and Sunday rain or shine. 

For information and how to purchase tickets you can visit the website at www.renfair.com