Timothy Rawles / NewsBreak Pinal County, Arizona

The Arizona Renaissance Festival, which begins on February 4, celebrates the history of Britain, from women in royal garb and the tavern maids who serve them, to brave knights in armor on their trusty steeds. It’s like stepping back in time and stepping into prosperity and vibrancy. of the Elizabethan era.

Lady Tessphoto courtesyArizona Renaissance Festival

Arizona’s mild lingering cold may be in the air, but nothing like the weather can rule this cosplay event.

Almost any avid reveler, or “playtron” as they are called, will tell you that Renfair is more than just a weekend excursion, it’s a party for the senses. From the smell of artisanal food and drink to the screams and cheers of people watching jousting, this 50-acre festival is a manic dreamland.

Celebrating its 35th anniversary, the Arizona Renaissance Festival is one of the largest festivals of its kind in the United States. The fun never stops. This year there will be performances of falconry, sea fairies, pirates, music, dance, acrobatics and comedy.

Jousting is held three times a day on Saturdays and Sundays in February and March.

Max Milianphoto courtesyArizona Renaissance Festival

With over 2,000 cast members dressed in period costumes, attendees are immersed in a simulation of a 16th-century European village. Many historians consider this period to be Britain’s Golden Age. Poverty rates were low and artistic creativity high.

William Shakespeare is of A famous playwright of the time. Writers such as Edmund Spenser and John Lyly wrote what some might consider literary masterpieces.

This era saw the flowering of new music, especially folk songs and ballads performed by traveling bands who visited villages for fairs and other events.

Mistress Baudphoto courtesyArizona Renaissance Festival

For festival-goers looking for a slower pace amidst the silly, listening to live period music is almost hypnotizing. You can do this while shopping at over 200 picture book shops, studios and galleries filled with unique arts and crafts, handmade tableware, kitchens and pubs, games and human-powered vehicles.

In the Pleasure Feast event, playtrons who want to go hungry and hungry are waiting for a feast. They are served five courses of fine dining and beverages, along with 90 minutes of raucous Renaissance entertainment.

This year, a friendly fairy named Primrose debuts and greets guests throughout the park. Also, his first appearance is Professor Wrench and his comedy show.

And Renaissance Men presents audiences with a hilarious show full of swordfights, excitement, and laughter as two men battle for the ultimate prize: the title of Renaissance Man!

DJ seriesphoto courtesyArizona Renaissance Festival

On average, the Arizona Renaissance Festival welcomes about 250,000 people through the city gates each year. That’s more attendees than San Diego Comic-Con in any year. Both events are dedicated to the pop culture of the time. But one celebrates films that depict life in the Middle Ages, while the other transports you into it.

The Arizona Renaissance Festival runs Saturday, Sunday, and President’s Day (February 20) from February 4 to April 2 from 10 AM to 6 PM. Parking is free.

Located at 12601 East US Highway 60 in Gold Canyon.

For more information on tickets and prices please visit their website.