Medieval Times: Dinner, Tournament, and Fun at Schaumburg

The tournament had not even begun in earnest when the first challenge was thrown down. The Blue Knight, fresh from having earned his title on the field of battle, would battle the villainous Yellow Knight, his rival. Without even bothering with a horseback joust, the two Knights instead took up heavy, halberd-like spears and lunged at each other across the sandy arena.

Among the spectators, I thrust a mug of ale into the air, shouting as mightily as I could in praise of the Blue Knight, and encouraging him to impale the dastardly Yellow Knight. The Blue Knight's fans screamed with glee as he battered the Yellow Knight into submission, flourishing his weapon to the cheering crowd in victory.

Was this somewhere in Europe, around 1100 AD? If you thought so, guess again. This took place at Medieval Times in Schaumburg, Illinois, only a few days ago. Then what, you ask, is Medieval Times?

Medieval Times is a dinner and tournament theater show, in which guests are taken back to the Middle Ages, cast as lords and ladies attending a celebratory feast and tourney as the guests of the King and Princess. The Knights compete to be named champion and to win the heart of the Princess, as their supporters cheer for victory.

With locations around the United States, Medieval Times has been in business since 1983, after originating in Spain. This review will cover my experience at the Medieval Times in Schaumburg, Illinois.

A group of my friends and I booked tickets for Medieval Times as a celebration of a friend's birthday. Though many of us had been to Medieval Times before, this friend had not, and we wanted to see if he would enjoy it, and if we would, given that our last visit to Medieval Times was years and years ago. Booking tickets was easy and friendly, with a simple phone call to Medieval Times. I could have booked online, but we wished to use a coupon that would admit our friend at no cost for his birthday, and this required calling. The person I spoke to was very helpful, especially when I had to call back later, wanting to add additional guests to our list. Prices are reasonable, at $56 for adults and $40 for children when booking online. However, you will almost certainly be able to save even more money by checking the Web for various coupon and special offerings, such as the birthday special we used, and then calling for tickets.

Upon arrival at Medieval Times in Schaumburg, we were greeted with a fanfare of trumpets and admitted into the castle. You will be given a crown to wear, the color of which determines which Knight you will be cheering for. We were impressed at the sheer size and amount of things to do and see while waiting for the show to begin, from examining medieval displays to seeing the animals that will be used in the upcoming show. Of course, there are many, many items and souvenirs for sale, but the staff (dressed in costume) was never pushy or irritating in attempting to hawk anything. I purchased a very nice ceramic mug with the Medieval Times logo, and filled with beer.

The Master of Ceremonies at Medieval Times Schaumburg was very talented, as we watched and listened to him work the crowd, making everyone laugh and encouraging us to cheer mightily as various special guests, such as birthday persons, were knighted by the King and the Princess. Our friend was given a special crown and cape to wear as his picture was taken, with the rest of us howling with laughter. Then, it was time for the main event.

Since we had blue crowns, we took our seats in the Blue section, ready to cheer our Knight. The show is opened with much fanfare and humor by the Master of Ceremonies and the King, while the serving wenches and serfs bring drinks and food, which was actually pretty tasty, with chicken, ribs, and soups being served. Keep in mind; no silverware is provided, you will eat with your hands! There are plenty of napkins, so don't worry.

As the tournament began, we were entertained by displays of horsemanship, falconry, games of skill, and challenges of sword and lance between the Knights. The Blue Knight, of course, performed fabulously as we screamed praise for him and shouted boos for his opponents. I will not spoil the show or what twists and turns it takes; that I will leave for you to enjoy. Suffice to say, if you are willing to let loose and cheer, scream, boo, and enjoy, anyone from grandparents to young children can have a fabulous time. The staff at Medieval Times Schaumburg is attentive, friendly, and entertaining, and the Master of Ceremonies will have the entire crowd yelling at the top of their lungs for their champions and rivalries. So, go forth and enjoy, lords and ladies!

You can learn more about Medieval Times at www.medievaltimes.com.