Renaissance Festival concludes this weekend

A human chess game thrills the crowd as the characters ?fight it out? at the annual Renaissance Festival. The festival runs through Memorial Day, rain or shine. The event is experiencing its 21st season on the festival grounds in Triune.

The Tennessee Renaissance Festival will conclude after the upcoming long weekend as it will be open Saturday and Sunday as well as Memorial Day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine. The festival, which is annually open weekends during the month of May, offers an assortment of activities for visitors along acreage adjoining Castle Gwynn, an actual castle built and owned by the Freeman family of Triune.

One of the favorite attractions during the festival is the daily jousts at the tournament field, featuring knights on horseback competing in Old English events including the joust and sword fighting. The event generally draws large crowds who line the field of competition.

The joust is featured three times daily while the human chess match is offered twice daily as the human chess board comes alive with comedic actors as well as choreographed battle scenes.

Along with matches at the tournament field, shows are constantly underway on the festival grounds. The shows range widely, from comedy and magic to glass-blowing and belly dancing. Artisans also offer wares ranging from top quality swords and leather works to jewelry and clothing. There is also a full food court offering contemporary dishes as well as Old English favorites.

The event is now in its 21st year, growing each season. One-day admission is $15 for adults and $6 for children. There are also weekend and season passes available. The festival grounds are located in Triune, located a few minutes outside Murfreesboro off Highway 96.

For more information and directions go online at www.tnrenfest.com.