“Huzzah!” The Texas Renaissance Festival has returned for another round of revelry. Located 30 minutes from Dellrose in Todd Mission, the nation’s largest Renaissance event never disappoints and always features something new. Here’s what to know before you go.

The Bountiful Basics

The festival recreates a 16th-century English village spanning 70 acres of shops, stages, food booths, costumed performers and adventure. Gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 27. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Prices vary by day but generally run $13-$25 for ages 13 and up. Tickets for children aged 12 and under are half price on Saturdays and free on Sundays. General parking is free; $25 for preferred parking; and $50 valet.

To Costume or Not to Costume?

Whether you come dressed for the King’s court or cosplay as your favorite fantasy movie character, wearing a costume enhances the festival experience. Pair what you wear with comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking. Weapons must be “peace tied” for the safety of others. Bring comfortable clothes for costumed little ones to change into if they feel uncomfortable.

All the Festival’s a Stage

 This year, 27 stages will delight festival attendees with plays, songs, animal acts, dances, magic, jugglers and much more. Check the entertainment guide before you go or just walk past and see what all the cheering is about. Be aware that not all shows are appropriate for children. If you have wee ones in tow, take them to see Birds of Prey not the new Tease of the Seas: Pirate Burlesque Show.

Prepare to Lighten Your Purse

More than 400 merchants have set up shop selling clothes, jewelry, weapons, trinkets, artisanal objects and more. The Brigadoon Brewery and Brew School is a fully functioning brewery where you can watch and learn how beer was made in the 16^th century.

Faire Food

Want to feast at the festival? Food booths from every country can be found throughout the fair. If you are in the mood for more of a sit-down meal, plan to visit the new Thirsty Pirate tavern. The Thirsty Pirate features 64 beer taps, an assortment of bar food and a large pirate-theme stage.

Add to Your Experience

For those who want more, the festival delivers. For an extra fee, you can join the Kings Feast, make merry at Danish King Hrothgar’s mead hall, taste wine at Odin’s Table, take high tea, go on a guided pub crusade and more. Four escape rooms relocated to a new air-conditioned location will challenge all comers.

Where to Stay

The Fields of New Market Campground offers first-class accommodations for every camper. The campground is within walking distance of the festival, but shuttle service is available. Free nightly activities include bonfires, crafts and movie nights. The King’s Bathhouse offers warm showers. Or you could skip all that and make the move to Dellrose and be within a 30-minute drive!

Cabins and Glamping Tents are available for rent by the day or the weekend. There is also a graded VIP section for RVs and motorhomes. You can find more information on our Camping Page or call 936-218-0972.

Prepare thyself for a day of autumn revelry, ale and yes, giant turkey legs at the Texas Renaissance Festival, weekends now through Nov. 25. Jousting, dancing, costumed performers and more await at Texas’ largest Renaissance faire. Planning to go? Here’s how to make the most of your day.

Images courtesy of: Texas Renaissance Festival Instagram (Banner, Bountiful, Costume, Stage, Merchants, Food, Experience, Stay).