Party Like It's 1399

We’ve all heard the exploits of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Now, you’ll have the chance to experience medieval adventures firsthand at the 24th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire.

The Alachua County Fairgrounds comes alive with trumpets, minstrels and revelry Jan. 30-31 and Feb. 5-7, bringing the present-day grind to an authentic medieval pace. Armored knights will joust on horseback for the honor of their ladies, charging head-on with a shining lance and shield for a cheering crowd. Jugglers, musicians and dancers will perform on the streets or on one of the eight stages.

Faire Coordinator Linda Piper recommends arriving during the first 30 minutes of the faire, when the entertainers meet and greet the visitors. “It's one of the most exciting times of the day," she says. "And what a great opportunity to see all of the entertainers up close!"

Hoggetowne revives the forgotten arts of falconry, archery and puppetry, and guests can test their aim shooting arrows and hurling battle-axes. Tickets on Saturday and Sunday are $14 for adults, $7 for children 5-17 and free for children 4 and younger. Visit to www.gvlculturalaffairs.org or call (352) 334-ARTS.

—Zahara Zahav, with reporting by Edward Bowen; photo by Rodney Rogers

Check back tomorrow for INsite staffers Jon Silman and Sarah Hsu's fair report!