Annual event draws visitors from across state

Every fall, almost 500,000 visitors—some even dressed up in medieval garb—come to a 50-acre site northwest of Houston to be immersed in the culture of centuries past.

The Texas Renaissance Festival opened its doors for the 38th year the first weekend of October, and visitors can find anything from the favored turkey leg to costume contests to jousting during a typical weekend.

There are a handful of new additions to the festival this year, including the Latin restaurant, Hacienda San Jorge, which opened for the first time in early October.

The festival has undergone multiple improvements as well, including the renovation of the Globe Theater, a new market village and several new restaurants, bars and covered patio seating.

Ugrades to the on-site campgrounds have also begun this year, and are estimated to be completed by 2014 in time for the festival's 40th anniversary.

"The campgrounds have been fairly simplistic and primitive," said Terre Albert, general manager. "It was time to give the patrons who wish to camp to do so with modern comforts while still embodying the atmosphere of the festival."

This year's themed weekends range from Pirate Adventure to Barbarian Invasion to Celtic Christmas. All themed weekends include special entertainment events, ranging from eating contests to costume contests. Ticket prices vary for individuals, families and groups and can be purchased at the gate or online. The festival runs through Thanksgiving weekend.

Texas Renaissance Festival, 21778 FM 1774, Todd Mission, TX, (936) 894-2670