If you’ve been feeling fed up with the complexities of the modern age, two Tampa Bay area festivals offer a perfect escape into yesteryear – joust in time!

The 2008 Bay Area Renaissance Festival is underway and will continue through April 6 at the Museum of Science and Industry. The festival features the world of the Tudor Dynasty, complete with jousting tournaments, human chess, royal high tea with the queen and the ladies of the court as well as the antics of the Washing Well Wenches.

If you prefer the 13th century to the Renaissance, check out the fourth annual Sarasota Medieval Fair on April 5 and 6 at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds. More than 200 entertainers, themed vendors and concessionaires will bring to life this medieval village. Sample some mead, cheer on jousting knights and enjoy a human combat chess match.