Military discount at Renaissance Festival March 27 & 28

If you want to see the Bay Area Renaissance Festival, 11315 46^th St. N. on the grounds of the Museum of Science & Industry, you’d better hurry: This is the last weekend. But on the bright side, if you’re part of a military family they have a special deal for you.

Active and retired military families enjoy buy-one-get-one ticket offers all weekend. That’s a savings of $17.95 for adults, $9.95 for children younger than 13 and $14.95 for seniors. According to Carrie Shoptaw from the festival’s public relations department, it’s a chance to show appreciation for those who serve our country.

“Part of our motivation was the enormous military presence in Tampa,” Shoptaw said. “We wanted to make an offer just to thank them for the work they do all year round.” Visitors get access to all the general shows and exhibits on the festival grounds, which can take several hours to enjoy. In addition to plenty of eating and shopping opportunities, there are comedy and music shows across several stages spread out across the village. You can’t go very far without running into one. They even have jousting events, which always attract a large crowd. And you’ll frequently encounter citizens of the realm—always staying in character— mingling with the public to add to the atmosphere. If you haven’t been to a Renaissance Festival before, it’s a fun experience and this is your last chance. And if you have seen it before, you know it will be another year before you see anything like it again. So take advantage of the opportunity (and specials) this weekend.

The Bay Area Renaissance Festival runs Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Parking is free. So grab a turkey leg, enjoy the shows and say thank you if you see military families out and about.

For more information, visit www.bayarearenaissancefest.com.

Free Strawberry Festival admission for ‘American Heroes’ Wednesday

We’re mid-way through the Florida Strawberry Festival, but there are still a few days to enjoy the 75^th incarnation of the event, held at 303 N. Lemon St. in Plant City. In fact, there’s a special going on today for those who serve their country, county and city. On Wednesday, the festival celebrates American Heroes Day by offering free admission to active and retired military, Law Enforcement, EMS personnel and firefighters. Just show your ID and enjoy the Strawberry festival for free. It’s a nice way to say thank you to those who make our lives safer and easier.

There’s a lot to do this year, too. The Florida Strawberry Festival has plenty of scheduled entertainment, and a lot of it is included in admission. You can hear everything from bluegrass to country to rhythm & blues, catch motorcycle stunts, a lumberjack show and even racing pigs. Yes, racing pigs. Do you really want to miss that?

Of course, there are more strawberry dishes than you could possibly eat along with your favorite, deep-fried fair favorites as well. There’s also a midway with games and rides, and several exhibits, including livestock. And did I mention the racing pigs?

Regular admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youths ages 6-12. So accompany one of our “American Heroes” and enjoy the strawberries. But if you want to save even more money, donate blood at one of the mobile locations outside the festival grounds. They’re giving out free tickets to donors.

American Heroes Day is Wednesday, March 10. The festival runs through the 14^th. For more information, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com.