Bay Area residents get their annual chance to travel back in time when the Northern California Renaissance Faire comes to Casa de Fruta in Hollister. Swashbuckling heroes, honorable knights, fair maidens, merry minstrels and colorful characters of every sort vie for your attention on the busy streets of the Faire's authentic 16th century village of Willingtown as well as on seven stages that offer continuous entertainment throughout the day.

In addition to the players portraying such important historical figures as William Shakespeare, Queen Elizabeth I and Sir Francis Drake, visitors will find over 1,000 costumed performers helping to recreate the ambiance of an English village from almost 500 years ago. The streets and stages of the Faire boast music and dance from traditional Morris and English Country  to Celtic and gypsy tribal sounds. This edition of the Faire marks another year of the Celtic Rock Concert Series, which will offer up such popular acts as Culann’s Hounds, Molly's Revenge and Tempest. The Faire also features a different theme every weekend ranging from discounted, two-for-one admission on Sept. 15-16 to the following weekend's "Pirate Invasion" as well as Oktoberfest and the closing Fantasy weekend.

Armed with lances, swords and daggers, the World Tournament of Champions Joust Troupe present jousting and armed combat for Her Majesty's pleasure.Crossing lances is only the beginning of the fun and excitement this group delivers twice daily at 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. at the Tournament of Horses Arena. Foolishness and fun rule the day as ever popular favorites, Moonie the Magnif’cent and BrooN bring their unique brand of mischief and humor to the Fools stage. Attendees can sample authentic food and drink at various taverns, take in a fierce battle of jousting knights or simply walk the grounds and let your imagination wander through the ages. For more information on the Northern California Renaissance Faire, please visit the official website.

Northern California Renaissance Faire
Weekends through October 14, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., $25-$35 (children 5-12 $10)
Casa de Fruta