The weekend provides a perfect opportunity for an outdoor picnic. An artists market is also featured, and food vendors sell a variety of lunchtime treats. Sponsored by the City of Atlanta Bureau of Cultural Affairs. Big name acts, like hometown favorites The Indigo Girls or Ray Charles, show up occasionally, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra sometimes offers special guest performances. The top draw though, is the excellent array of art that is brought out for display along the streets.
Performance art is featured as well.
No alcohol is served. The festival aims to recreate the traditional English county fair , complete with costumes and characters from the 16th century. There are also a juried craft show, artists demonstrating crafts from the period, and 12 stages offering ongoing entertainment. Musical entertainment on the lawn precedes each performance. Many attendees enjoy a picnic on the lawn while enjoying the works of the Bard.