{image1}Most festivals have a beer-and-music focus, resulting in a less than ideal scene for families. However, the Bristol Renaissance Faire offers wholesome entertainment -- with the occasional bawdy joke or cleavage spotting -- ranging from silly to educational for the kids, and boatloads of unique foods and plenty of mead for parents.

Meg Farner takes her three kids to the Renaissance Faire every year. "It's a history lesson and a fair rolled into one," she says. "There's a lot for them to do here."

Set in the 16th century, the Ren Faire offers a romp of rides, arts, crafts and dance, recreating summer days in 1574 when Queen Elizabeth visited the English hamlet of Bristol.

With 14 stages of entertainment including Dirk and Guido ("The Swordsmen"), The Sturdy Beggars Mud ShowTM and MooNiE the Magnif'Cent, there's always a stage in action. Plus, magical creatures roam the grounds, eager to interact with curious kiddos.

"Our favorite part of the day is the drum circle," says Farner, referring to the drum circle and dance jam that takes place on the grounds at 6:30 p.m. every evening. A visual feast for people watchers, the percussion party is a much-needed stroller break for the wee ones.

Parents of picky eaters will appreciate the cuisine. With nary a bowl of mac and cheese on the grounds, kids are forced to try something new. Recently, our picky two-and-a-half year old ate two bowls of garlic mushrooms and a fruit crepe.

However, if meltdown sets in, there's always Ye Olde ice cream shop.

The Renaissance Faire runs every weekend through Labor Day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.. in Kenosha. Tickets are $18.50 for adults and $9.50 for children (ages 5-12) at the gate. Discounts available. Call (847) 395-7773.