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I recently joined about 3,000 other spectators watching armor-clad horseback-riders engage in combat jousting. King Henry VIII and Queen Jane Seymour, the third of his six wives, strolled out onto a balcony overlooking the arena and waved to the crowd. Then I accompanied those seated in my section of the stands in shouting encouragement to the gladiator we had been designated to support, then standing in jubilation after he was victorious in the contest.

This was among numerous lifelike reenactments that transported me back to England in 1537. I was attending the Maryland Renaissance Festival, one of several similar extravaganzas held throughout the country each year. Whether close to home or when you're traveling, these "faires" offer a unique, fun-filled experience and an immersion into an intriguing chapter of history.

The events re-create a historical setting, many from the reign of King Henry VIII (1509-47) or Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603). They're populated by minstrels and magicians, warriors and wenches, artisans, acrobats, jesters and a variety of others who seek to entertain as they educate fairgoers about life as it was led centuries ago.

The Maryland fair is among the largest, set on a 27-acre site within a short drive of Baltimore and Washington, D.C. More than 200 professional performers take to 10 stages, and close to 150 artisans create and exhibit crafts. Pubs and taverns offer smoked turkey legs, Canterbury Pockets and Steak on a Stake, along with beverages that include cider and medieval-style mead.

As many people who attend Renaissance fairs come dressed in period costumes as those who don't, and the onslaught of sights and sounds provides a backdrop of sensory overload that adds to the atmosphere. In addition to these similarities, each pageant also has its own distinctive claims to fame. While some of these festive events are held throughout the year, most take place from spring to fall.

Dog-lovers appreciate being able to enter designated dog gates with their pets at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival. Now 54 years old, that England-like fantasy setting features themed weekends devoted to such topics as the Highland Fling; Love for the Arts; and Wine, Chocolate and Romance.

The Texas Renaissance Festival is half a century old and boasts that it is "the largest and most acclaimed Renaissance-themed attraction" in the country. It sprawls over 200-plus acres and draws more than a half-million guests each year. One highlight is a humorous mead-tasting led by the Court Fool.

The setting of the Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo, not far from New York City, itself is worth a look-see. It is a perfectly groomed former botanical garden that contrasts in atmosphere with some of the activities that take place there. One is Cirque du Sewer, in which trained rats and rescue cats run an obstacle course, balance on a narrow rope and perform other fantastic feats.

Another lovely scene greets guests at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, held at that state's original winery, brewery, cidery and distillery. Over the course of two centuries, Mount Hope Estate and Winery, located in Northern Lancaster County, has grown from a private residence to a flourishing historic manor and entertainment venue. There are more than 90 performances each day, including the King's Court and Human Chess. More than two dozen kitchens serve a selection of 16th-century foods along with contemporary treats.

The 16th century also is re-created during the Florida Renaissance Festival at Deerfield Beach. One focus is the Enchanted Artisan Marketplace, where more than 100 workers demonstrate their skills and sell their wares. From weaponry to hand-made wooden toys, blown glass to one-of-a-kind pottery, there's variety enough to fill many a shopping list. Those seeking a more exhilarating experience can opt for axe-throwing, sword-fighting, climbing a towering rock wall or taking a spin in any of several dizzying rides.

It's gnomes that attract attention at the Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire in Irwindale, California. The delightful dwarfs are hidden around the grounds awaiting discovery by visitors, and those who find 15 or more receive a pewter gnome pin and a certificate recognizing them as a Gnome Hunter Extraordinaire.

Steel is the metal in swords used by Manly Men in Tights as they duel and banter during the Northern California Renaissance Faire in Hollister. A more genteel atmosphere pervades the Queen's Royal Reception, when the beloved sovereign deigns to hobnob with her subjects.

Whether reconnoitering with royalty or mingling with their vassals, cheering on a jouster or sipping mead, a visit to a Renaissance Fair provides an enjoyable and enlightening trip back through the centuries.

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WHEN YOU GO

renfaire.com

therenlist.com

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Victor Block is a freelance writer. To read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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