If you stop by Hollister’s Casa de Fruta any weekend from Sept 6-Oct 12, don’t be surprised to see Queen Elizabeth I walking the grounds in all her finery, swashbuckling pirates dueling with swords, strolling minstrels serenading guests and wenches serving food. The Northern California Renaissance Faire comes alive again this year, and with exciting live performances, hearty food and drink,  and vibrant characters, it’s not too hard to get swept up in the romance and magic of a bygone era.

The faire gives guests a taste of what life was like back in the day with a recreation of a Renaissance shire called Willingtown. Guests are invited to explore the village’s marketplace, complete with artisans selling wares such as chain mail, leather goods and jewelry; fun games like the axe throw, the javelin throw  and the Dragon’s Maze; and booths offering frothy ales and finger-licking good fare such as  roasted turkey legs and fish and chips.  As the day goes on, the “inhabitants” of Willingtown bustle in preparation for the grand arrival of Queen Elizabeth I.

And what is a Renaissance faire without great entertainment? Six stages boast all kinds of music performances, including Celtic and gypsy dance; comedy acts and more. And don’t miss the jousting contest or the new Suspended Reality show, featuring graceful aerial artists, both of which which will get your heart racing.

Also returning this year are the theme weekends: the Pirate Invasion, the Celtic Weekend and the Bacchanalia/ Masquerade. So put on your best Renaissance garb and come down to Gilroy for a grand olde time.