Go Back in Time at Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament

I received two tickets to Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.Since its beginning in 1983, I have wanted to visit Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament in Kissimmee, FL. We talked about going many times and for one reason or another I had never been…until last week. While Ron and I were on our vacation, we were blessed to be the guests of Medieval Times, Orlando. One of my favorite periods in history to teach and learn about is the Medieval period so I was very excited about this visit. Unfortunately, when we arrived, we were experiencing torrential downpours. Due to the weather, we were unable to tour the adjacent Medieval Village, so I guess I have to go visit again. Ron was able to snag a picture of the entrance when the rain slowed down a bit.

When you check in you are given cards with your team color and table number on them. Take these cards to the cart where you receive your crown. The color on your card and crown designates which knight you will be cheering for during the tournament, we had the Blue Knight, aka Don Alberto del Mau. Next you proceed to a photo area where you have a group picture taken of your party.

Before entering the arena, we had plenty of time to check out all of the wares available for purchase including swords, shields, flags, princess hats and other medieval trinkets.

Also in this area, you can purchase a Knighting Package. Prices run from $20-$225 (most are $30). I think this is a very cool addition if you are celebrating a birthday or special occasion. We watched a few kids get knighted and then at the beginning of the tournament the King and Princess read the names of those who have joined the realm as knights.

The Lord Chancellor announces when it is time to enter the arena. Due to the way the arena is configured with long bench seating, you are called in by color and table number to facilitate easy seating. **Mom Note-I highly recommend making sure everyone in your party use the restroom before entering the arena. Leaving during the show is difficult due to the bench seating.** We were in the first group seated way down the end near the Royal Box. When we arrived at our seats, our places were set and our menu listed the night’s bill of fare. It also warned us we would not be using any utensils, other than our hands.

The meal was served in courses throughout the duration of the show. Tomato Bisque, Garlic Bread, 1/4 Chicken, Corn on the Cob, Herb-Basted 1/2 Potato and Apple Turnover. The food was very good and well seasoned. Personally I would have liked some butter with my potato, but other than that it is delicious. The do offer a vegetarian meal, which must be requested in advance. That meal includes Hummus, Warm Pita Bread, Carrot and Celery Sticks, 3-Bean Stew with Fire Roasted Tomato and Brown Rice, with Fresh Fruit or Italian Ice for dessert.

The tournament includes colorful pageantry, beautiful horses, graceful dressage, amazing falconry and feats of skill. The six knights are put through their paces with several skills using multiple weapons. My favorite is the joust. Each joust ended with the knights on the ground engaged in hand-to-hand combat. At the end of the tournament, an overall winner is declared. The entire show is full of excitement and lots and lots of loud cheering and booing from the crowd.

Mom Maven’s Thoughts

I wish I had visited sooner. I really wish we had brought the boys when we finished our homeschool study of the Medieval period. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament is a wonderful night out for family, friends or even co-workers. It is also a unique way to celebrate a birthday or other special occasion.

I agree, the base price of $62.95 for adults and $36.95 for kids ages 3-12 seems steep but it really is in line with similar theatrical experiences. Be on the lookout for deals and coupons. If you follow me on Facebook, you’ve already seen this deal: Buy one full-priced admission and receive the second admission of equal or lesser value FREE. Not valid with other discounts, offers or group rates. Not valid for the Sat shows at the Buena Park location. Restrictions may apply. Valid thru 5/3/15. Make your reservations by call 1-888-935-6878 or visit medievaltimes.com. Must mention or enter code BOGORB at time of purchase.

Have you ever been to Medieval Times? I’d love to know your thoughts on this experience!