Our family has been visiting Medieval Times pretty regularly since 2006 when our oldest son developed an intense interest in all-things-knights.  And for a little boy who loves all-things-knights, there is no better place than a ringside seat at a Medieval Times banquet.  But it's an experience that grown-ups will enjoy too, with plenty of action, good food, fine displays of horsemanship, pageantry, and falconry.  The new show has returned to its roots, focusing more on the horsemanship and less on Hollywood lighting and smoke.  We also found it to be even more kid-friendly than previous shows, with a lighter story line that was more about the tournament between the knights than the punishment of a dark villan.  

The Hall of Arms

From start to finish, the entire staff seeks to give you a medieval experience complete with courtly manners, period costumes, and a sense of fun.  Upon arrival, you'll be crowned with a paper crown and ushered into the vast Hall of Arms displaying suits of armor, weapons, and plenty of souvieners including glowing swords, princess tiaras, shields, and colorful flags.  Over the years we've come home with more than our fair share of it all -- but what the kids seemed to enjoy the most were the flags that they used to cheer on the knights and brought home to cheer on backyard exploits as well.

Maryland Faerie Festival (May 11-13, 2012) - Darlington, MD -  Do you believe in faeries?  Come celebrate theYear of the Goblin with three full days of Faerie Festivities!  Three Stages with Story Telling, Puppet Shows, Music, Magic, Faerie Tea Parties, Crafts, Food, Fine Arts, Games and more!  Day Passes ($5 child; $15 adult), Evening Passes ($15-$25), and overnight Faerie Ring Camping Experience available ($150 child; $250 adult).