Courtesy of Explore Minnesota

Lords, ladies, knights, fairies and everyone else (dogs, too!) are implored to journey back in time to the annual Renaissance Festival in Shakopee. This longstanding tradition is held for seven consecutive weekends (August 18 through September 30 this year), with a different theme every week. Leave your inhibitions at home; this is a place where the best way to fit in is to be yourself.

Armored jousting, juggling, comedy, belly dancing and “Robin Hood” are among the stage shows, with gnomes, unicorns, pirates and other costumed performers roaming the grounds all day.Shop for jewelry, works of art and a costume of your own from hundreds of artisans, and dine on everything from nachos and corn dogs to alligator and turtle, not to mention the ever-popular turkey drumstick.

Revelers with little ones shouldn’t miss the fairy wing forest, mermaid cove, petting zoo and knighting ceremony. For the grownups, the Feast of Fantasy features two hours of raucous entertainment and a six-course meal (reservations required).

The festival is held rain or shine, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., on the Renaissance Festival Grounds. Tickets are available on-site starting at $15.95 for kids and $24.95 for adults, with discounts available when purchasing online or in advance at participating locations.