3. Virginia Shakespeare Festival

The Buzz -- The Bard may not have discovered the New World, but it certainly has discovered him with the many festivals and "in the park" series that have sprung up all over the US and Canada in recent years. Here in Williamsburg, a tradition that started way back in 1753 – when London's Hallam Troupe put on a production of "The Merchant of Venice in Williamsburg" – was picked up in the late 1970s and continues today thanks to the effort and hard work of William & Mary's Department of Theatre, Speech and Dance. The festival generally includes three productions and a youth drama camp.