Photo by Katie Jones

The Minnesota Renaissance Festival is gearing up for its 45th year, kicking off the weekend of Aug. 22.

The festival just released its theme weekend schedule with a host of new and old attractions.

The festival runs Aug. 22 to Oct. 4 including Labor Day and Friday, Oct. 2. Gates open at 9 a.m. and run until 7 p.m. — rain and shine. Tickets are $22.95 for adults, $13.95 for children and children 4 and under are free.

 2015 theme weekends

•Highland Fling: Aug. 22 and 23

•Silk Road: Discover the Riches: Aug. 29 and 30

• Passport to Adventure: Sept. 5, 6 and 7

•Canines and Christmas: Sept. 12 and 13

•Shamrocks & Shenanigans: Sept. 19 and 20

•Wine, Chocolate & Romance: Sept. 26 and 27

•Festival Friday: Oct. 2

•Oktoberfest: Oct. 3 and 4

Photo by Matt Culbertson

 New for 2015

•Castle Escape: Clocks, locks and secret passages. You and your team of squires are trapped in a fully themed castle room and you only have 20 minutes to work together to figure out how to escape.

•Princess Garden: Immerse yourself in this enchanting garden experience where kids will have a chance to try on costumes and tiaras, learn courtly etiquette, listen to stories, and even take pictures with the Princess Court.

•Sherwood Forest: Venture into our new, fully immersive family experience through its hidden entrance. The lush beauty and secrets of the forest will be connected to our Fairy Wing Forest to create a truly mystical world you can disappear into. Sherwood Forest will also feature the SkyVault Theatre Company, a multi-talented group of individuals who will be showcasing their fun and interactive performing style.

•The Little Glass Slipper: Bring all of the princesses you know to this new fairytale land. Zezolla, the original Cinderella, will be in her garden wearing the gown and the slipper the Prince gave to her. See the sparkling glass slipper for yourself and meet Zezolla in person!

•Mural Competition: Show off your artistic skills by painting and submitting a unique Renaissance-themed mural for the chance to win $250.

•Living History Tour: Travel throughout the Festival and experience all of its history over the past 45 years.

•Fantasy Mask Competition: Get creative with paint, beads, feathers, latex, and clay to create a unique mask. After you’ve created your masterpiece, be prepared to model it for prizes.

 2015 Highlights

•Mermaid Cove

•Schell’s Craft Brew Pub

•Fairytale Princess Party

•Kid’s Craft Corner

•Pig N’ Swig (21 and older)