For the next month, time travel is possible in Tampa Bay. The 22nd annual Sarasota Medieval Fair is bringing its massive celebration to the region for the next five weekends, with November 7 marking the official kickoff to the fanfare.
The sprawling fair consists of a 47-acre medieval village in the Woods of Mallaranny (located in Myakka City, just east of Sarasota), and it takes place every Saturday and Sunday, November 7 – December 6, open 9:45 am – 5:30 pm. It’s about an hour’s drive for most, but with 14 stages of entertainment, wandering minstrels, and the twice-daily full-armored jousting tournaments, there’s more than enough to make it a full day of fun that’s worth the commute.
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Single day passes run about $35 with taxes and fees, though there are several options, including VIP passes, add-ons, special experiences, and season-long passes. Full ticket info can be found here.
The Sarasota Medieval Fair is one of the most immersive and entertaining experiences in the region, and if you’ve been before or seen footage, it feels like something plucked straight from a fantasy book or movie. Dozens of nationally renowned entertainers rotate through each day and each weekend, providing a new experience every time out, with daily favorites like the wishing well wenches and the human combat chess matches entertaining guests throughout.
The walkable village features artisan shopping, food and drink, rides, medieval games, and classic English pubs for when you need a rest and a pint. There are daredevil shows, comedians, bagpipers, aerialists, carolers, jugglers, fire-breathers, magicians, and, of course, turkey legs.
This year’s theme is the Viking Siege of Paris, which features “the legendary Norse war leader Ragnar Sigurdsson, commanding a fearsome Viking force driven by conquest, glory, and gold.”
In addition to VIP admission, this year’s rendition also includes options such as a pub crawl, a mead tasting, the Bards Brunch, a masquerade, and the Feast of the Crown, among other add-on options. You can even get married at the festival.
“Experience the majesty and madness of the Middle Ages as knights, jesters, minstrels, wenches, and rogues bring the village to life,” the fair entreats. “Step through the gates and be transported to a world filled with noble knights, daring warriors, skilled artisans, lively entertainers, and endless excitement for guests of all ages.”
