You don't have to drive far to go to another world --- one of revered royalty, jousting knights, comical jesters, boisterous revelry and old English pageantry.

For such entertainment can be found on the grounds of the Bristol Renaissance Faire, a venue that offers a taste of 16th century England through performances, actors, shops, gaming and food. It's the kind of place where Shrek would feel right at home.

Just over the Illinois/Wisconsin border lies this wonderland for fans of the romantic era when knights slayed dragons and chivalry was alive and well. Open on weekends only starting July 11, the final day of the season is Labor Day, the only day it's open on a weekday.

The huge task of putting on such a production is a year-round operation that requires over 1,000 actors and musicians, according to Linda McFeters, general manager and producer of the Bristol Renaissance Faire, which is one of about 15 permanent villages around the country that comes to life each season. Bristol's location is the third largest in the country.

McFeters said every season you'll find a new variety of acts and musical groups, so summer travelers shouldn't hesitate to repeat the trip. "Some acts are consistent, some are different," she said, adding the Swordsman is a returning favorite.

Each weekend, the fair hosts a special event, one being a tea with the queen, where tickets can be purchased for a formal afternoon of tea, crumpets and scones. Another weekend a wine tasting event takes place. One weekend costumed guests can compete for a cash prize and free fair tickets.

For fans of fantasy, role-playing, Dungeons and Dragons type scenarios, the fair offers RenQuest, which debuted last year. Aimed at ages 11 and older, the game is a full day of participation taking you throughout the fair grounds.

"It's a trilogy about a dragon who landed in the trees in Bristol. Many gamers come to play and interact," said McFeters. "It takes them all over the fair site and they can win big prizes and at the end they fight the dragon. This year the dragon has left behind an egg and so the game and the quest revolve around the egg and the four elements -- earth, wind, fire and water."

McFeters said the game became "incredibly popular" during the first season. "We already have a big fan base for RenQuest. It has its own Web page and Facebook."

With 20 separate performance areas and 36 hours of scheduled entertainment in an eight-hour period, there's fun at every turn, from a whip artist to swordfights. Shoppers will find close to 200 artisans with their creations on display. Hand crafted jewelry, leather, pottery and tapestry are among the wares.

Aside from entertainment and shopping, another aspect that draws visitors is the food. "The turkey legs are big. The pickles are fantastic. We have steak on a stick and tempura. Some people come just to eat their way through the fair," said McFeters.

Tickets are discounted for opening weekend and are $15 for adults. Kids up to age 12 get free admission. Throughout the year, special offers can be found on the Web site.