The battle for supremacy over the seas is being waged. Currently, the Spanish, with their galleons and navy, rule the waves.

To combat this threat, Elizabeth has secretly established a training base for Privateers in Stafford. After all, who would ever think a secret Privateer training school would be in a land locked county? The teachers are the lowest of the low. The classes are practical and sometimes deadly.

Populating this school are the desperate of society: criminals who have one last chance at redemption, locals who want to escape to a life of high adventure, and even women, all bent on making a name for themselves. For one student, passing the school means a Letter of Marque, fame, and glory. Today, the Queen and her entourage have come to Stafford to judge the merits of the school and the Queen's Agent will award the Letter of Marque to the most deserving student.

For the rest, there is just ignoble defeat and a life in the shadows...

Enjoy One (1) Family Four-Pack to the Virginia Renaissance Faire

At the Virginia Renaissance Faire, you leave behind the 21st C and enter the town of Stafford, England as one of the inhabitants.  You'll swing a sword and carry a pike in military drill, practice your long bow skills and learn the fine art of seamanship.  Your family may dance the Maypole or and attend the Court of Common Pleas. 

Learn all about the fashion of the period, how to make a smart choice of coursing hound and how a  knight suits up for the joust.  Children can make a horn book for Dame School, try their hand at spinning, weaving and leatherwork and be knighted by the Queen.  The shire is filled with craftsmen, food purveyors and, of course, spirits in the town Pub or Wine Garden.

It's a full day of entertainment and learning for the entire family.  Admission is only $8 with children 5 and under free. The Virginia Renaissance Faire is open Saturdays and Sundays May 7 through June 5 from 10AM - 5PM on the grounds of the beautiful Lake Anna Winery, 5621 Courthouse Rd., Spotsylvania, VA. (Near the Lake Anna State Park).  

Each weekend has a different theme and on Military Heritage weekend (Memorial Day) active, retired and reserve military personnel are admitted free with ID.  For more detailed information, a list of weekend themes and directions, visit the website at www.VaRF.org or call 703-508-5036.