We’ll Take Swords for $400

Say what you will about wrestling, duels, or the Giant Q-Tip Game from American Gladiators, but when it comes to hand-to-hand combat, nothing beats a good swordfight. Unfortunately, except for the occasional knife fight under the overpass, you hardly ever get to see one live. That all changes this week, when the U.S. Fencing Summer Nationals come to the Miami Beach Convention Center. Sure, the participants might look like a cross between a crew of beekeepers and the gang from A Clockwork Orange, but there is still something undeniably cool about sparring with sabers.

Swashbucklers of all ages will be flashing their skills every day this week -- including today, naturally -- from 7:00 p.m. until after midnight. Admission is free, but repeatedly shouting “My name is Inigo Montoya; you killed my father; prepare to die” at annoyed competitors is priceless.
Fri., June 29