Miami to Host Florida Renaissance Festival

The Florida Renaissance Festival, the only renaissance festival in South Florida, will commemorate Ponce De Leon’s exploration of Key Biscayne on his first mission to the New World in 1513. The event will showcase its first Miami show ever on Key Biscayne.

The Miami festival weekend dates are Jan. 9 to Jan. 24, 2010, at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. This 16th century production features more than 100 costumed performers, 12 stages with continuous entertainment and 20 stage acts from around the world.

During the three family themed weekends, guests will enjoy jousting tournaments three times a day, hearty food, human-powered rides and games for children that include the World’s Largest Rocking Horse, Giant Chess, Barrel Rides, and games of strength and skill.

The festivities will feature historical reenactments, sword fights, magical illusions and an abundance of authentic fare from freshly made kettle corn to roasted giant turkey legs, which can be washed down with a swig of mead or ale.

The event is hosted by Miami-Dade County Parks and Recreation Department and Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. The Florida Renaissance Festival at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park will be open weekends from 10 am to sunset.