I recently drove northwest of Tomball to visit the Texas Renaissance Festival. While strolling the grounds, I came across a group of five friends, all dressed in period clothes. Bought or rented, costumes are expensive. They’re usually a sign the wearers have been to the fair before.
Non-Toxic Time Travel: Why The Texas Renaissance Festival Is Safer Than The Real Thing
Few would confuse the mock Renaissance village with a genuine slice of sixteenth century Europe. There’s running water, the food is safe, and there’s no danger of the plague.

Andrew Schneider/Houson Public Media
At the Texas Renaissance Festival (from left to right): Justin Jenkins, Marie Oppong, Andres Guevarra, Katerina Guevarra, and Jason Lee