In October of 1987, the first Renaissance Month was observed in Florence, Alabama. Every fourth weekend in October a Renaissance Faire takes place as a two-day event. Florence is named for Florence, Italy, the founding city of the Renaissance movement in Europe during the 14th century. The Renaissance Faire covers the period of time from the 12th through the 16th centuries. Authentic costumes, arts and crafts, and food are all a part of the Faire.
Visitors can take part in medieval games and hear musicians playing authentic instruments.
Artisans and merchants offer coins of the realm, hand-thrown pottery, jewelry, dried flower wreaths, and many other delights. Magicians, mirthmakers and minstrels wander about in period attire. The Alabama Renaissance Faire is held in downtown Florence at Wilson Park - on the corner of Tuscaloosa Street and Wood Avenue. The Florence Renaissance Faire became the official state faire in 1988 by Act no.88-43.