While most people are occupied with what will happen in the future, hundreds of historical reenactors in Vallejo were happily living 500 years in the past. The Carnevale Fantastico, an Italian Renaissance and cultural festival, kicked off its weekend-long affair Saturday at the Blue Rock Springs Park in Vallejo.

Speaking with thick Italian accents, actors and purveyors of hand-crafted items plied festival goers with wares and performances during the sunny Saturday afternoon. Festival coproducer Dalia Vidor explained this is the festival’s third year, with each iteration growing slightly larger than the previous one.