Monday, January 26, 2015

How Do You Faire?

For the past 28 years the Alachua County Fairgroundss have been transformed into a medieval marketplace. This year is no different, marking the 29th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire. Only about a 20 minute drive from the University of Florida, the faire was a perfect way to spend a gorgeous Sunday with friends. Tickets were $17 dollars, but my friend happened to win four tickets, so I got to go for free! As soon as I stepped through the entrance, my surroundings were distinctly different. Along with the workers, faire goers were dressed head to toe in elaborate medieval get ups. In my jeans, sweater, and scarf, I definitely felt like I had been teleported to medieval times and I'm sure I stood out like a slice of pizza in Chipotle. Among the endless array of things to do, some of the sites I saw were jousting, maypole dancing, and living chess. For some extra cash you can ride elephants and camels, have your fortune told, or practice your archery skills. Along with a crazy amount of activities to see and try, there are also vendors selling medieval clothing and accessories, incense, tapestries, and other fun trinkets. But I must say that out of all the booths, the food tents caught my attention the most. There were so many food options, I actually got overwhelmed! Every type of fried food was present from fried jalepenos to fried oreos. Of course there was turkey legs, hot dogs, and chicken on a stick. If the American options don't suit your fancy hop over to the Greek, Asian, or Indian stands, just to name a few. The faire will be set up all next weekend too, so be sure to check it out! If medieval times aren't your style, then I at least urge you to go for the epic assortment of faire food. 

Until my next adventure ✌️

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Magnitude 10 Beer

I have been in Gainesville for almost four years now and until tonight, I had never been to First Magnitude Brewery. Boy, was I missing out! It's roughly a 15 minute drive away from campus, so for us UF students used to walking to midtown or downtown, it's pretty off the grid. But that's why this place is so cool, it's a nice little get away form the usual bars that some of us practically call home. But if you're not willing to stray from your Fat Daddy or Tall Paul ways, you can check out the brewery first and hit up mid or downtown after, since the brewery is only open until 9pm. You can try out their beers by the glass or by a flight. My friend and I shared a flight, which sampled their tap beers like 72 Pale, Siren Blonde, Drift English Mild, and more! While enjoying our beers we played a nerve wrecking game of life-size Jenga. For the calmer kind, they offer life-size Checkers and Scrabble, as well as regular size board games like Trivial Pursuit. They also have live music and a food truck on site, which enhanced the chill atmosphere. The food truck varies depending on the day, but today it was Off The Griddle and it was off the chain! I highly recommend the Chicken Wrap. First Magnitude is a must check out spot in Gainesville for beer lovers and those looking to have a casual night out with great friends, great food, and great music.

Until my next adventure ✌️