Area festivals fill summer weekends
by Rita Langston, Reporter

    Just the thought of summer vacation sparks life into minds of students everywhere. The close of finals usually coincides with a revitalization of energy for summer activities in the metroplex.
    Even before the semester ends, the Renaissance festival, Scarborough Faire begins. It offers a day of continuous live-entertainment, a step back in time to the age of King Henry VIII.
    Covering 35 acres, it is one of the largest and most popular Renaissance festivals in the nation.
    Patrons stroll through the unique crafts displayed by 200 artists and watch some of the many events such as jousting exhibitions, knife throwing and sheep herding.
    The more adventurous may want to participate in games of skill or thrilling rides.
    The 16th century-themed festival is located near Waxahachie and is in its 23rd season of food and fun for the whole family.
    Scarborough Faire is open through June 1, and admission is $16.99 for adults and $6 for children 5-12. For more information and directions, call toll free 1-888-533-7848.
    Another Metroplex summer event is Fort Worth's Mayfest May 1-4.
    Mayfest 2003 features musicians such as Cory Morrow, '80s rockers Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and the up-and-coming Jarrod Birmingham Band.
    Festival goers can participate in the Run Like Hail 1k, 5k or 10k runs along the Trinity River or visit over 75 booths of handmade art and jewelry.
    Children of all ages can enjoy the kid-friendly entertainment and special attractions like Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel and Tom Thumb children's area with 25 booths and activities.
    Mayfest runs Thursday and Friday, 3:30-10 p.m.; Saturday noon-10 p.m., and Sunday, noon-7 p.m. Admission into Mayfest is $6 for adults and $4 for children 6-12. Discount tickets are also available at all metroplex Tom Thumb stores.
    Free transportation is available from the parking lot next to Amon Carter Stadium on the TCU campus. Buses arrive every 10 minutes for the short ride to Trinity Park.
    Park concerts and family cookouts mean July 4th can't be far away.
    Bedford's old-fashioned, flag-waving 4thFest Independence Day celebration provides free concerts, an Independence Day parade, a KidFest activity area and a fireworks extravaganza.
     Jumbo corn dogs, large turkey legs, smoked German sausage on a stick, chopped brisket sandwiches, roasted corn and funnel cakes are only a few of the many culinary delights at 4thFest. The celebration runs from noon to 11 p.m. at the Bedford Boys Ranch, and admission is free.
     In addition to free parking, a $3 shuttle service from Pennington Field on Central Drive is available. Lawn chairs, blankets, coolers and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. Call 817-952-2222 ext. 514 for more details.
     Go to www.tourtexas.com/@roundtexas.html for more information on festivals in the North Texas area.