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King Henry joins a band of musicians at last year’s Bay Area Renaissance Festival. He is one of the many local performers who will become residents of the town of “Fittlesworth” for the run of the 30th edition of the festival, opening Saturday, Feb. 23.
photo for Tropical Breeze courtesy Bay Area Renaissance Festival
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The 30th edition of the Bay Area Renaissance Festival at MOSI returns Saturday, Feb. 23 for every weekend through April 6, bringing a taste of life in England 500 years ago.
Opening weekend theme is “Arabian Knights!” and features the state belly dancing competition. Gates open at 10 a.m. each weekend and close at 6 p.m.
The festival has a cast of more than 300 professional actors and musicians. The royal court is led by King Henry VIII himself and His Majesty’s sixth and final wife, Queen Catherine Parr, who will once again welcome guests to shire of Fittlesworth, charming guests of all ages.
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 months in advance for the artisans to select the finest craftspeople. Only a few more than 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, a 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, off I-75, exit number 265/FL-582, on Fowler Avenue and 46th Street, next to MOSI.
Opening weekend admission includes the Harvesters Food Network discount of buy one ticket at the gate get one free with donation of four non-perishable items for this important cause. Military personnel also receive a $5 discount at the gate.
Visit www.renaissancefest.com.
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