Even when they're against wise-talking computers, most chess games aren't as exciting as the ones that take place at Camelot Days Medieval Festival. The knights, queens, and kings here are all real—or at least as real as you'll find without traveling back to the Renaissance and Medieval eras. During these human chess games, a troupe known as The Royal Chessmen battle it out with swords, staffs, and fists. That's just one of the dozens of entertainment options that take place at Camelot Days Medieval Festival, which packs its grounds with knights on horseback jousting, artisan vendors, musicians, and various eateries.

In addition to watching comedy operas, magic shows, and Medieval games, attendees have a chance to join the spectacle. The festival encourages adults and kids to dress up in family-friendly garb depicting the Renaissance, the Medieval period, or the time when respectable sailors dressed like pirates. Each day, the festival hosts a costume contest, while other guests snap photos and compete for prizes given out to the best shots.