The Renaissance Festival is a medieval amusement park, a 12-stage theatre, a 15-acre arts and crafts festival, a jousting tournament, and a feast – all rolled into one!
The last time I was at the festival was in '99. You could buy crystal and silver jewelry, whimsical pottery, stained glass, leather clothing, and medieval apparel to get you in the swing of things.
I wasn't enthused by any of the food, so I suggest you only snack there, eat later.
The 2003 "Ren Fest" starts April 26th and runs through to June 8th. In following years you may want to check the following website for future dates (a ref="http://www.garenfest.com">garenfest.com) and to book tickets at a discount.
Parking is free.