For three glorious weekends in September, partake in all the pomp and pageantry that the Des Moines Renaissance Faire has to offer! Cross the bridge and stroll down the streets of a Tudor village. Admire the castle overlooking a jousting field before visiting the charming merchant shoppes. Savor food and drink at the feasthall—then enjoy acts from bawdy to muddy held at the seven stages.

Meet the likes of royals and rebels, pirates and peasants, ministers and merchants! But beware of stepping between a knavish Spanish knight and his honorable English counterpart—you may get caught in swordplay. Keep a hand on your purse and your woman as pirates wander by, or you might lose them both. Cheer the Queen and her Royal Court as she takes her daily promenade. Help the Good Sheriff toss the robber bandits in jail—or dance with faeries in a magical glen.

When hunger strikes, the aromas of turkey legs, wild game, kettle corn, and more will guide you to the food merchants. Sit at a pub and enjoy a Scotch egg, buffalo burger, bowl of soup, or plate of fried rice. Let wine, ale, beer, coffee, and even homemade root beer linger on your tongue. For dessert, partake of chocolates, crepes, and much more.

Explore the quaint shoppes lining the streets of this 20-acre English village. Try on Scottish kilts, Celtic capes, Renaissance dresses, Elizabethan hats, and even period undergarments. Outfit yourself with a leather jerkin and a good-luck geode. Or have your hair styled in the latest medieval ’do and don a henna tattoo. You’ll find quality handmade wares for home décor, toys for children, jewelry for women, and weapons for men.