'From Bronze to Steel' full-contact jousting comes to Laird

It's the real deal. 5,000 pounds of horse and rider careening toward each other and meeting on the point of a lance. Watch and see who keeps their saddle and who doesn't

The Knights of Valour are coming to Laird Fairgrounds on Friday and featuring their unique style of full contact jousting on horseback with a side order of medieval-style feasting for everyone.

The event kicks off with a Nobles Feast consisting of royal delights the likes of which few have ever witnessed, let alone sampled.

The feast is a full event including food and performances by Sarah Cosner, who will make feast-goers believe in the true beauty of the age; Juggler Jay, an acrobat with a twist of comedy in his act; and some entertaining peasants who like to cause a ruckus.

There may even be a clash of steel with swords drawn to whet feasting visitors' appetites for the main competition.

Doors for the feast, a licensed LLBO event, open at 5 p.m. and gets underway at 6 p.m.

Doors open for general arena admission at 7 p.m. and the main event begins at 8 p.m.

The main event begins with an introduction to the legendary King Alexandar the Great who will wow audiences with his beautiful steed Bucephalus.

Then the Roman Empress will present Gladiators who will entertain with a fight for the ages.

The event continues with majestic birds of prey in flight from the Canadian raptor conservancy followed by the origins of chivalry as knights of old compete for audience favour.

The event climax consists of a tournament of full contact jousting.

"Watch as these real athletes ride forth atop magnificent war horses and, with shattering lances, win the hearts of the crowd," says a spokesperson for Knights of Valour. "Be amazed as they test their skills with weapons of old in the games and then hold on to edge of your seat as wood explodes upon steel in the joust."

When all is said and done, only one knight will be named champion and the results are by no means set.

"Cheer them on and perhaps your chosen will be inspired to take victory," say the Knights of Valour. "Witness beauty, magic, and thrilling sport throughout the evening. King or Queen your adventure with us will be a feast, not only for your taste buds, but for all your senses."

The Knights of Valour will also be bringing a pop up souvenir and gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs for competitors and demonstrators to autograph after the event.

Participants will come into the audience to meet everyone after the tournament.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here.