The Experience: We love to go to the Renaissance Festival every year, rain or shine. The best part for us is seeing all the elaborate costumes that people wear, including fairies, trolls, knights, courtiers, noblemen, kings, queens, barbarians, and (if my husband's lucky) chain mail bikinis. The Renaissance Festival may not be a favorite of conservative parents, as there are plenty of cleavage displays, well-populated pubs, and shows packed with double entendres. In spite of the raunchier side of the Ren Fest, and the occasional groups of people who have had too much to drink tripping over your sword, it is a great place for kids. The kids will love the joust, complete with cheering sections, real horses, lances, and all the trimmings. They will revel in the rides and activities, such as the elephant ride, camel ride, llama ride, chicken ride (just kidding), the Dizzy Dragon, giant swing, mysterious maze, the petting zoo, the bow and arrow games, kids' jousting ride, and many more. And of course they will love all the foods on a stick, apple dumplings, funnel cake, and tons of other sinful delicacies. Many of the shows, such as the Bird of Prey show and weapons display show, are good for kids as well; buy a program when you first enter so you can find out more about the shows. And make sure to bring enough money for a souvenir, such as a wooden sword or Viking helmet for your child. If you want to go in costume, you can rent one near the entrance or purchase one there. There are many shops featuring beautiful costumes hand-made by the proprietors. You can also buy boots, weapons, flasks, and everything else you need to dress authentically.