Having grown up in Southern California my entire life, I often find that while I’ve ventured all over the second largest city in the US, there are still many places to explore, particularly with my children.  I love finding unique, off-the-beaten activities that offer memorable experiences.

Last week, my children and I headed over to see the brand new show that recently made it’s debut at Medieval Times.  The last time I attended a dinner show at the Buena Park Castle, I was in my 20s, so I was excited to see what had changed.

It’s been five years since the longest running dinner attraction has made any changes to its show, which has been seen by more than 50 million people in the US and Canada.  Taking suggestions from their guests via Facebook and their website, Medieval Times spent two years working on the show to give guests the action they crave.  While the experience still feels very familiar, the show, including the story, has changed.  Live jousting, sword fights, horsemanship, and falconry comprise the show where guests are taking back to Medieval Times.  Guests are still divided into teams according to color and rallied to cheer for one of the six Knights of the Realm.

The show is exciting and colorful, filled with spectacular displays of jousting and horsemanship.  Both of my children enjoyed my show, but I would say that it was most appropriate for my almost 5 year old son, who very much “got into the show.”

Here is what you need to know before you visit Medieval Times:

1.  The show runs for 2 hours.  Keep that in mind with regards to your children and whether or not they can sit through the show.

2.  Children under the age of 3 are admitted without charge, but must sit on an adult’s lap.  While the show is not scary, there are periods of darkness and action scenes that might be perceived as loud to infants and toddlers.

3.  Seating is assigned on a first come basis so be sure to arrive early.  Castle doors open 90 minutes prior to show time and guests can enjoy the festivities (visit the gift shop, grab a drink, visit the museum of torture, observe the master falconer and his birds of prey up close, watch knighting ceremonies before the show) that go on in the Hall of Arms.

4.  Although the four-course meal is utensil-less, parents can request utensils for their children.  If you have dietary preferences or food allergies, be certain to speak with your server as vegetarian meals are available and he/she can check to see if a food contains an allergen.

Along with a new score, lighting, choreography, costumes, and dressage elements, guests will notice that the menu has changed.  The upgraded meal, which remains utensil-free, includes a flavorful Tomato Bisque, warm Focaccia bread, Oven Roasted Chicken, BBQ Spare Rib, Herb-Basted Potato, and a Braided Apple Strudel.  The portions are extremely generous and despite the amount of people the venue is feeding, I still found the meal to be delicious and well-prepared.

To celebrate the debut of the new show, Medieval Times is offering several deals and discounts.  At present, you can use the code “newshow” to receive adult admission for $44.95 and child admission for $29.95.

If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate Valentine’s Day Couple’s Package, check out their package which includes the following ($99 February 10th through 14th):

2 admissions to the Dinner & Tournament Show

2 admissions to the Castle Dungeon Museum

1 photo in a Souvenir Frame

Valentine Scroll

Split of Champagne with 2 souvenir glasses

Long stem sweetheart rose

2 cheering flags

For more information about the show, or to view their current offers, just visit the website.

No compensation was received for this post. Media tickets provided.

Photo Credit: Medieval Times, Rockin’ Mama