Swashbucklers duel for the hands of pretty maidens, minstrels regale the crowds with lilting sounds and the costume shop allows visitors to step into period costumes, all whilst Queen Elizabeth herself parades through the masses, holding court and greeting visitors from all lands.

Faire Marketplace, Celtic Concerts on Saturdays, English Ales, foods, entertainment and costumes authentic to the period make this the Elizabethan village you won't want to miss in California. Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Celtic Rock Series starts at 6 p.m. and is free with admission on Saturdays. Cost: $25; Free age 12 & under. Weekend pass: $35; Pass for full event $150 (good for 5 weekends). Location: Casa de Fruta, 10031 Pacheco Pass Highway, Hollister, CA. Call: (408) 847-FAIR. norcalrenfaire.com

The annual Norcal Renaissance Faire is held every Saturday and Sunday from September 17th through October 16th, and features
men wearing tights, hilarious banter, magnificent swordplay, an authentic joust, and the antics of  a dynamic duo of performers, MooNiE and Broon. At the Tournament of Horses Arena the World Tournament of Champions performs twice daily for the Queen's entertainment, demonstrating heroic acts to declare victory for their homelands.

On  Saturday evenings as the sun goes down the Celtic Rock Concert Series lights up the night with performances from Tempest, Wicked Tinkers, and many more, each of whom will take to the stage in the Arena after the Faire gates close at 6pm. These exclusive concerts are free with admission to the Faire, and give a rare glimpse into how our Elizabethan village continues to thrive throughout the night.

Faire marketplace features fancy swords, bodice chillers, jewelry,  crafted woodworking and carefully hammered pewter.

For other fun things to see in Hollister, be sure to check out the winter holidays with parades, choirs, and a fabulous tree lighting ceremony.