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Courtesy Veronica Cantu,

(Laredo, Tx)-United I.S.D. held its first ever Renaissance Festival at the Student Activity Center on October 31.  The event was specifically held for high school students to help them learn about the cultural movement that spanned roughly from the 14th to the 17th century. Due to rainy weather, the event was moved indoors. However, at the event, students were introduced to the reigns of King Henry the VIII and Elizabeth I of England. Special displays informed students of the Italian, Spanish and Portuguese cultures of that time period. They were also were provided opportunities to examine the influence of this period which resulted in the eventual discovery of the Americas.

“The fair provided students with a unique learning experience as they connected the “New World” with the “Old World,” and analyzed the importance of the period as one of the greatest turning points in history,” said UISD Curriculum and Instruction Social Studies Coordinator Rebecca Hughes.

Some other features of the festival included Shakespearean performances, an essay and art contest, costume contest, dancing, a cooking contest, chess tournament, renaissance bingo, jousting contest, reenactments, games, and the selection of a royal court. In addition, period music was played by student musicians in different areas, adding to the Renaissance atmosphere. A modern catapult was on display at the festival for all to see.