The Elizabethan era may be considered Old World, but the Northern California Renaissance Faire in Hollister annually gives it a new lease on life. Back for another action-packed year from September 18 through October 17, this highly anticipated festival delivers the essence of the Renaissance’s adventure and romance—from gallant knights and fair maidens to regal queens, strolling musicians, heart-pounding jousting matches, and period foods. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, the festival offers another surprise that takes it to the next level.

The Faire’s venue is the legendary Casa de Fruta roadside fruit stand-turned-visitor attraction, which transforms itself into Willingtown, an authentic Renaissance village, complete with a colorful marketplace and costumed denizens roaming the grounds. Head to the marketplace and browse the vast array of artisanal wares, from chain mail and swords to leather goods, jewelry and blown glass, and be sure to try your hand at one of the many fun games such as dart-throwing.

Stop by any of the stages to catch a captivating performance—from the zany Manly Men in Tights, who keep the audience laughing with their swordplay and hilarious banter, to Suspended Reality, whose Midsummer Night’s Dream-inspired aerial acrobatics are sure to leave you breathless. And don’t miss the pomp and circumstance of the Queen’s Royal Reception, where the queen reunites with renowned privateer and explorer Sir Francis Drake; and the Tournament of Champions, where gallant knights  engage in full-contact jousting.

Saturdays at 6pm, the Celtic Rock Series lights up the stage. The dazzling musical lineup includes the Bay Area’s own Molly’s Revenge, Culann’s Hounds, and Tempest as well as the Young Dubliners from L.A. 

All that shopping, watching, laughing and cheering is sure to work up your appetite, and the Faire is happy to oblige it with a vast selection of tasty fare. You can take your pick of cuisines from Greek, Italian and Mexican to American, British and gourmet Californian, ending on a sweet note with frozen chocolate-dipped bananas, chocolates and other confections. If you want to jump right into the full Renaissance spirit, then grab a giant roasted turkey leg with all the fixings, and wash it down with a fine English ale. With so much to offer—and more— it’s no wonder why the Faire is one of the most popular events of the year.

When: Sept 18–Oct 17: Weekends, 10-6.

Admission: General Admission, $25; Weekend Pass, $35; Kids 12 and under, free

Location/Info: 10021 Pacheco Pass Hwy., Hollister; (408) 847-FAIR; www.norcalrenfaire.org