Imagine being surrounded with images of knights clashing their swords and regal entrances to the tune of a bugle horn. The Medieval Festival at Poplar Grove Plantation is a perfect place to immerse oneself in the lifestyle and history of the Middle Ages.

The festival will be held this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The festival activities are sponsored by the Society for Creative Anachronism. This non-profit organization is devoted to recreating the Middle Ages through dress, sports, arts, literature, music and other social pastimes of the period. They strive to expose the public to the chivalric code of honor and the pageantry of the royal court.

“(The Society for Creative Anachronism) hopes to bring out the positive aspects of medieval society,” said Wendy Bugbee, director of Public Relations for Poplar Grove Plantation.

Many of the recognizable figures from the Medieval Era will be representedat the plantation in realistic dress and activity. The knights, clad in authentic armor, will be in attendance for all to see. The tournament field on the plantation will be set up for sword fencing and fighting contests. There will be strolling jesters to greet the visiting admirers with their magic tricks and balloons. Authentic music will accompany the events with harp, drum and pipe playing. Even the merchants set up for the festival will be in ancient dress.

Also available for tours during the festival will be Poplar Grove Plantation’s feature attraction, the 1850 manor house. It was once owned by a successful farming family. There are craft demonstrations available, as well as a country store and restaurant. The grounds are also equipped with picnic areas to allow guests to explore the outdoors.

“The most rewarding thing for me is the people I meet and being able to share this history,” said Nancy Kroeger, manager of the Poplar Grove Giftshop.

Animal lovers will appreciate this festival for its pony rides and petting zoo. Hayrides and a sheep shearing demostration are also part of this festival.

“(The event) is entertaining and a fun event for the whole family,” Bugbee said.

Parents can treat their little ones to the Castle Balloon Bounce. Sheep raids and fencing tournaments should also prove to attract the attention of young children. Admission for the festival is $5 and all proceeds go to Poplar Grove Plantation. For more information visit www.poplargrove.com