Before you enter the world of the 16thCentury here are some Renaissance words and phrases to help you speak like a native:

Good morrow=Good Morning

Good day=Good Afternoon

I shall see you anon=I’ll see you later

How now?=How are you?

Prithee or Pray =Please

Grammercy =Thank You

Hail and well met!=Hello, nice to see you!

How stands the hour?=What time is it?

Whither be the privies?=Where are the restrooms?

What be thy tide?=What is your name?

I be parched =I’m thirsty

Fare thee well, I must be away!=Goodbye, I gotta go!

The Renaissance Pleasure Faire allows one to take a step back into history and become part of the past. Being held at the Nut Tree in Vacaville at the Faire one can encounter period costumes, fabulous entertainment, wonderful craftsman booths and a tremendous feast.

Attending the Faire is a wonderful experience, but becoming a part of the Faire is a more memorable one. The easiest way to enter the world of the Renaissance Faire is to come to the Faire in costume, whether as an elegant courtier, rebellious outlaw or lusty wench. Costumes can be rented for the day, just inside the front gates, however many Faire-goers come decked out in their own astonishing costumes. The Faire is a great place for people watching – just stand in one spot and you will be overwhelmed with the amazing thought and creativity that?s gone into some of the costumes.

Faire-goers are given many opportunities to buy period-related products and marvel at the craftsmanship offered throughout the Faire. If one wishes, they can get their hair braided 16th century style, have a Tarot card reading, or have temporary henna designs applied to their bodies. There are also many beautiful pieces of jewelry and artwork for sale that represent the Renaissance period.

A wide range of entertainment offered includes shows such as Hahbi’ Ru, an internationally recognized troupe of dancers and musicians known for their great costumes and presentation as well as bringing traditional Middle Eastern dance to life. Another Middle Eastern dance troupe that is worth checking out is the Suhaila Dance Company; they offer mesmerizing beauty and bring rhythmic skill to the stage.

If comedy is what you want, the Broon Show and MoonNie the Magnif’Cent are twoshows that will have you doubled over in laughter. Both shows offer audience participation, so if you do not want to be selected then avoid eye contact withthe performers.

The best show that the Renaissance Faire has to offer is the Queen’s Joust, whichinstantly transports you back into history. This event is held in an arena and offers spectators a chance to see knights in real armor demonstrate the art of Quintane and challenge each other to a dangerous full-contact armored joust. There are several entertaining shows offered throughout the day and the variety is such that there should be something for everyone.

While pondering what show to watch, there are numerous places to grab a quicksnack or full-fledged feast. Fish and chips and turkey legs as big as forearms can be found in numerous Faire-goers hands? as they munch away. Desserts also run wild at the Faire; there are chocolate-dipped berries, cantaloupes and berries, ice cream and cinnamon buns, as well as fresh fruit ices served in their own rinds, which are popular on hot afternoons.

The Renaissance Faire continues through October 14 and is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $17.50, with parking for $5. The Faire also offers Student and Military discounts – show your student or military ID at the ticket booth and you will be admitted for $15.00.