Hoggetowne Medieval Faire: Annual Renaissance Fair in Gainesville, Florida

Coming soon to Gainesville is the annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire. This is a fun little festival celebrating trades of old, and sports from the middle ages. As a parent of two kids, I must say that I consider this event a must-see for all parents in the north-central Florida area.

The Hoggetowne Medieval Faire provides a source of good wholesome entertainment that the whole family is sure to enjoy. Throughout the Faire one will find an assortment of shows, from jousting, to magic and puppet shows to acrobatics and even a living chessboard, there is sure to be something for the whole family to enjoy.

I must say though that of all the attractions the two must-sees are the Jousting and the Magic Show. The magicians who lead the magic show put on a show that will leave your child amazed. They are very good magicians who will put on a very kid friendly show, though the willing parent will often find themselves as the butt of a joke, it is all in good fun, and usually has the kids on the edge of their seats.

The Jousting Tournament, which is considered by many the main attraction, is quite the show. The actors who participate in the jousts are truly skilled athletes and entertainers. Whether you are cheering on your champion or booing the opponent, it will surely keep you glued to your seat, or rather on your feet whooping and hollering for your champion.

When I first watched the jousting, I was skeptical and expecting a glamorized version with little to no contact. What I found after watching it was exciting in the fact that the jousting was real. The excitement of watching the jousting tournament rivals that of being in the stands at your favorite football game waiting for that winning field goal to be kicked on the final play.