The Central Coast Renaissance Festival returns to San Luis Obispo’s Laguna Lake Park on July 15th and 16th with over 500 costumed entertainers and four stages of continuous live entertainment.

Entertainment director Rick Smith of Cambria says that there are over 25 stage shows performing plays, comedy skits, juggling, singing, music, dance shows, storytelling, comedic Shakespeare, acrobatics, a parrot act, and free flying falconry.

Smith adds that guests can not only watch the entertainment, but also get involved with games, a juggling school, fencing lessons, street dances, archery and a magic show just for kids.

Vendor coordinator, Barbara Shrum of Grover Beach, says that there will be a variety of food and beverage vendors with many appetizing food options, along with beer, ale, wine and mead. “We’ll have over 60 vendors offering costumes, crafts and artwork.” She explains that shopping at the festival will be a unique experience, as the vendors are selling wares that could have existed in England in the late 1500’s.

While costumes are not required of festival guests, she explains, should they wish to get into the spirit, there are vendors who can help them with everything from period hats to shoes and anything in between. “Participants wanting to be pampered can get their hair braided or get a henna tattoo. If they’re inspired by the Queen’s call to arms, they can purchase leather goods, armor, or swords, or if they’re just looking to wet their whistle in historical fashion, tankards and goblets are for sale as well. There’s really something for everyone.”

Sunday is “Pirate Day” and there is a daily costume contest with prizes for kids.