Looking for a fun, family activity to do during these colder months? Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament is the solution to your family’s cabin fever! With an incredible show and a delicious dinner, this is something the entire family will rave about!
Located in the big castle at Arundel Mills Mall, it is not a far drive from the greater DC area, and even closer to Baltimore. You will enter through the mall and head towards the castle entrance. Upon entrance you are greeted by Medieval characters who give you your knight’s colored crown that indicates which team you’re on (where you’ll sit and who you’ll cheer for and boo for!). You are then greeted by the king and take a group picture with him (optional for purchase). It is recommended to get there at least 60 minutes prior to show time. This allows you to get checked in, take your picture, and explore the castle while you wait. My kids loved seeing the cool knight gear on display. There are also gift shops where you can purchase fun medieval gear and souvenirs. They even have a full service bar where you can get a drink before the show! In addition to alcoholic drinks, they also offer drinks for the kids like delicious slushies. You can just relax and enjoy the castle while you wait for your seating color to be called.
The real fun begins once you’re seated! Our “wench” greeted us and explained how our dining experience would flow, and reminded us to cheer like crazy for our knight. The kids were all about this! Ages 12,10, and 5 – all three of them were glued to this live show the entire evening! Of course, my husband and I joined in on the fun, too! You have a choice of Pepsi, tea, or water. I asked about an alternative for the kids, and she was able to get them Sierra Mist from the bar. You are then served your meal course by course. You have plenty of time to thoroughly enjoy both your meal and the show. I was very impressed by how well it was timed. Since your experience takes place in Medieval times, you eat your entire meal with your hands! This was definitely another hit with our kids. Guests feast on garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, sweet buttered corn, herb-basted potatoes, the pastry of the Castle, coffee and two rounds of select beverages. Any dietary restrictions can be addressed when ordering your tickets. The food was served hot and delicious, and even the kids did a great job eating most of their food. You are offered a to-go box if needed, but we certainly did not 🙂
While chowing down on each course and cheering for your knight, an amazing live show is taking place right in front of you. There was jousting, epic battles, beautiful horse riding, the flight of the royal falcon, and everything in between. It is a very well done show and participation is heavily encouraged (and really makes it that much more fun!).
To add to this spectacular evening of fun, you can add special packages to your tickets. We experienced the Royalty Package, which included Priority Castle Access, VIP Seating, Priority Seating Access, Knight’s Rally Towel, Cheering Banner & a VIP Lanyard. The kids loved cheering on our knight with their banners and towels! You can view all of the extra add on packages here.
Medieval Times is really fun to go to any time of the year, but it was a great way to get out of the house this cold week when school was out. Be sure to sign up for their e-mail list and you will be notified of sales and specials. They periodically feature some great offers. We live about one hour away, which was totally worth the drive for this family friendly evening. So gather your Lords and Ladies and make it a night to remember at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament!