Medieval Times
Kissimmee, Florida
This Medieval Times "castle" is the oldest of nine in the U.S., opened in 1983. The idea behind this form of eatertainment -- watching knights joust on horseback, indoors, while eating chicken -- was imported from Spain. Attendees wear paper crowns color-coded to one of six knights, and sit in an arena cheering section with similarly-hued diners. In keeping with the theme -- a sort of 11th century Spanish Camelot with mealtime pageantry and Arthurian shtick -- no utensils are allowed. You have to rip apart the chicken with your hands and teeth -- although in a concession to modern hygiene, moist towelettes are provided. Also, vegetarian dishes are available for the meat-averse.
The horsemanship and chivalrous battle goes on for two hours, giving Medieval Times plenty of opportunities before, during, and after the show to hit you up for souvenir booklets, illuminated flowers, pennants, and personal snapshots with the performers. Sorry, no discounts to the color section of the winning knight.