Texas Renaissance Festival

Travel back through time at the Texas Renaissance Festival and be sure to catch the 5 p.m. joust, pictured here, commonly known as the “death joust.” These jousters have been knocked off their horses and are trying to win with hand-to-hand combat. (Photo: Texas Renaissance Festival)

People watching is half the fun at this popular sprawling festival on its own permanent grounds in the woods, with stages, shops, bars, music, comedy, juggling, falconry, a maze, archery, games for adults and kids, plays, costumes, swings, food, and themed weekends. Costumes and characters encouraged.