Living History with Medieval Times

We had an amazing time visiting Medieval Times’ Atlanta Castle for a School matinee. We’ve been before to the regular shows, but this was our first time attending the educational matinee. The program included a wonderful 20 minute presentation by the King and Princess that outlined several elements of the Middle Ages including heraldry, feudalism, and knighthood. There was even a demonstration by Lady Ariel, the Falconer. Mr. F was mesmerized.

We had already spent some time learning on the Medieval Times Educator website which includes lots of information on various aspects of life in the middle ages, heraldry, weaponry, and more along with printable information and coloring sheets. It is the perfect way to prepare your homeschoolers or class before attending a show. We are also just entering the Middle Ages portion of our Timeline for Classical Conversations and this field trip worked in perfectly!

Medieval Times gives a glimpse into the past

Medieval Times is set up to give you an idea of what a medieval feast would be like. Your fingers are your utensils, the plates are pewter, and you are seated in long rows (though in much more comfortable chairs than Medieval lords and ladies would have enjoyed). The fare for the school matinee is a bit different than what is served at the evening meals but just as yummy, and the storyline is different, too. Without the extra romance, the storyline shows how the feudal system worked and focuses more on the history than the evening shows we have attended in the past. Mr. T loved all the information and has been talking about the knights ever since. He’s even joined me in some exercise since the knights did it!

You are graciously welcomed to the feast and accompanying tournament by the king and princess. The knights parade and are introduced and then the fun begins! There are jousts, sword fights, a strange visitor with a dark purpose, and justice is served along with a cookie the size of Mr. T’s face. (There are gluten-free options and vegetarian options available for both the school shows and the regular shows so your food allergy kids can enjoy Medieval Times, too!)

Dancing Horses and Swords that Spark

Mr. T loved learning all about the knights and the significance of the heraldry. He loved watching the knights training their squires. And when the fighting began, the real swords (made from titanium) shoot out sparks when they collide. Mr. T lit up like one of those sparks when he saw them begin their knightly battles. The sounds and sights are like being transported back to a real jousting tournament. It is an absolute delight!

Mr. T was enamored with the “dancing” horses. They are truly magnificent! And Medieval Times takes incredible care of their star performers! Children and adults alike will marvel at the horses and the grace they display. Learning about how they actually use those “dance” moves in war is very interesting. Just watching the horses and how they maneuver the joust gives you an idea of how remarkable the horsemen of the middle ages and Medieval Times are.

 

For some great fun, check out the video below and then hop on over to Medieval Times to plan your visit! There are 9 castles in North America and each one is sure to give your family a Knight to Remember!

The Official Medieval Times Commercial