HOLLY, Mich. — Late last month, hundreds of history buffs, re-enactors and tourists alike kicked off the 37th season of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.

One of the largest themed events in the country, the festival continues every weekend through Oct. 4, in Holly, Michigan.

Organizers once again invite guests near and far to journey back in time as more than 200 merchants contribute to the atmosphere of a charming 16th Century village featuring entertainment, shopping, fun and food fit for a king.

For the last 37 years, the Michigan Renaissance Festival has drawn more than 250,000 visitors just south of Flint on Dixie Highway.

Guests can take advantage of 17 stages filled with entertainment, but also become part of the world as actors taking on characters ranging from peasants to royalty interact with passersby in the village of Hollygrove.

Organizers say some favorite entertainment events include full contact jousting with armored nights and horses, a Human Combat Chess Match and a wide array of music.

Shoppers also have the opportunity to enjoy a number of artisans selling glassware, crafted leather, jewelry, Renaissance clothing and more. Baked goods, soup in a bread bowl, Scotch eggs, turkey legs and several other period treats are also for sale weekly.

Additionally, every weekend has a theme:

 

Sept. 5 to 7 — High Seas Adventure

• Tattoo Contest

• Beard Competition

• Biker Weekend

• Feast of Fantasy — Seafood Boil

• Pig N Swig Beer and Bacon Tasting

 

Sept. 12 and 13 — Wonders of the World

• Middle Eastern Dance Championships

• Steampunk Invasion

• Once Upon A Tea Time

• Arm wrestling competition

• Wine tasting

 

Sept. 19 and 20 — Shamrocks & Shenanigans

• Highland Heavy Games

• Keg toss

• Men in Kilts contest

• Irish dancers

• Wine tasting

 

Sept. 26 and 27 — Harvest Huzzah

• BBQ Festival and competition

• Pie Wars (Saturday only)

• Archery competition

• Deaf Awareness Weekend

• Wine tasting

 

Oct. 2 — Festival Friday

• Military appreciation

• Ladies’ shopping day

• School day

• Masque ball

 

Oct. 3 and 4 — Sweet Endings

• Chocolate Festival with free samples!

• Cupcake crusades

• Wine tastings

• State Royal Fencing Championships

• Cake Dive

 

The Michigan Renaissance Festival is open weekends and Labor Day from Aug. 22 to Oct. 4, plus Friday, Oct. 2. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. rain or shine. Adult general admission is $21.95. Child general admission is $12.95. Children aged 4 years and younger are admitted for free. Discount tickets are available at Kroger, Walgreens, Menards, Goodwill and online at www.MichRenFest.com. Free parking Provided by Al Serra Auto Plaza.