Take a journey into a land of imagination, where jousting knights, regal ladies, saucy wenches and royal overseers all mix and mingle with you and your family. The Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire is the world’s oldest Renaissance fair. Hundreds of performers dressed in the costumes of Elizabethan times create a magical world of music, language and fun, with 14 stages of entertainment options ranging from knife throwers to improv troupes — just outside of Pasadena. More than 150 artisans will be exhibiting and selling their original handcrafted items, including handblown glass creations, pottery, authentic clothing and weaponry. And don’t miss out on the more than 100 types of food and drink available, including gluten-free and vegan options.  Read the reviews – one person bemoaned the high cost of food and parking (they were able to park for free on a side street with only a 50-minute walk!).

Medieval Times is an exciting dinner attraction for the whole family inspired by the 11th-century world of knights, jousting and majestic revelry. Included is a four-course banquet during which you can cheer for one of six knights as they compete in the joust and other tests of skill. Medieval Times dinner and show features live jousting, sword fights, horsemanship, falconry and a “no utensils” meal, so you can feast like a king. Six knights of the realm will compete in the King’s tournament, locked in battle for the honor of the crown. Choose your favorite, and root for their victory. The show also features a display from the royal falconer, who performs wonders with his mighty birds of prey, including a live flight of the royal falcon soaring above the heads of the king’s guests. Amid the festivities, a herald from a foreign king arrives with a special stallion presentation for the king and his guests.