AMANA COLONIES -- A fire-juggling aerialist, skilled jousters, and a court of lords and ladies are all part of the entertainment planned for this weekend's Iowa Renaissance Festival & Gathering O'Celts in Amana Colonies.

Fest Director Greg Schmidt thinks that line-up deserves a "huzzah."

"This year's festival brings together the best entertainment from Minneapolis, Chicago and Kansas City," he said. "You don't have to drive. We're bringing it all to Iowa."

More than 200 costumed actors and comedians, including 15 professional performing troupes, will be on hand for the festival, which runs Saturday and Sunday at Middle Amana Park. Visitors can enjoy live theater, music and magic acts, all done with a medieval flair.

"We'll be doing 75 shows a day on six stages," Schmidt said. "If you went to see them individually, you'd be spending something like $250. Instead, it's $10 and all in one place."

Unique foods, including gourmet chocolates, will be available on site. And several performers will offer demonstrations of medieval trades.

"I go with my family about every other year," said Jon Childers, president of Merchants of Amana. "There's so much to see. The jousting is really impressive, there's just always something interesting going on."

Visitors to Amana Colonies can also check out the events of the Maifest, which kicks off Friday and runs through Sunday. The festival celebrates the town's German heritage and includes a communal dinner, parade, 1870s vintage baseball game and swing dance. For more information, visit www.festivalsinamana.com.

"I think the two events really compliment each other," Childers said. "It really makes the drive worth it."

The Iowa Renaissance Festival will go on as scheduled, rain or shine, said organizer Schmidt.

"We have lots of covered areas and canopies," he said. "We only lose about a third of the program if it rains."

Contact Mary Stegmeir at (319) 291-1482 or mary.stegmeir@wcfcourier.com.