The Texas Renaissance Festival

The Texas Renaissance Festival 

21778 FM 1774, Todd Mission, TX 77363

Hours vary, open nights and weekends in October and November

     It's really not that surprising that the largest renaissance festival in the country is located in Texas. It might even verge on cliché to point out. But man, it's a pretty neat festival. 

     Located about an hour outside of Houston, the festival grounds alone cover about 70 acres. It's huge. But what I love about it is that building are steadfast, permanent structures. These gorgeous, old timey shops and restaurants make you feel transported to ye old times. Every weekend has a different theme, from Oktoberfest, Barbarian Invasion, or 1001 Dreams, which is all about magic and fairies. 

     

Castle of Oddities

     It's really fun walking in and being greeted by actors and fans of these fairs, playing their chosen roles. You've got to love their dedication to the role, and the witty banter that has to somehow count as a second language. You can stroll around and look through all of the fun shops, find your way through the nature walk near the back, and catch all of the different shows they have going, like plays, belly dancing and various competitions, such as jousting. You'll probably catch the processionals going by regularly, often ending with the king and queen! And, especially if you have kids, you've got to check out their little amusement ride area. You'll find some classic rides, but no motors here. It's all man powered, so you can ride flying boats in a circle like in the olden days. 

     Aside from the fair grounds, the festival also has over 200 acres of camping grounds. They offer a shuttle service, although it's within walking distance from the festivities, porta-potties and permanent bathroom facilities, and two convenience stores. There's a family friendly area, with bonfires and kids activities, and then there's TRF After Dark. If you've ever been to a renaissance festival, you'll know there are a lot of people who go there to let their inner drunken wench out. This is the place for you. It's has a separate admission price, offers live music and of course, more bonfires. 

     

Fanciful entertainers like this can be found
throughout the grounds

     

     General admission to RenFest run about $30 per adult, $15 per kid. You can typically grab tickets early on Groupon, which I would suggest. Rides and activities are extra, running $3-5 a go, and you get stadium pricing for drinks. That means $8 beer, and about $15 for one of those fun yard long margaritas. As for food, you can't say you've been to a renaissance fair without getting a turkey leg (about $15), but you can definitely find more affordable options throughout the park. I like going into the small, hidden Greek pavilion for a gyro, but I got my daughter a slice of pizza from the general food court for $4. Don't forget to stay hydrated! Bottled water costs about $4, but you are allowed to bring in one sealed bottle per person from outside, along with snacks for any babies or toddlers. Parking is free, unless you want valet or preferred parking. There is free handicap parking near the entrance. 

     Definitely grab some tickets in advance, since they aren't selling tickets at the door right now. It's a lot of fun if you're in to fantasy or turkey legs, and it's an experience you've got to check out at least once. Although, you'll probably find yourself coming back to see what the other themed weekends have in store!