TODD MISSION, Texas — The 51st annual Texas Renaissance Festival officially opened Saturday, marking the start of the beloved fall tradition that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to Todd Mission each year.

From sword fights and jousting tournaments to roaming musicians and colorful characters, the festival transforms the 55-acre fairgrounds into a 16th-century village every weekend through Nov. 30.

Michael Churchill, who traveled to the festival from Houston with his wife Jade, said they make it a point to attend the festival every year.

“It’s just a nice authentic place where people can be social and just kind of feel comfortable, feel nice,” he said.

The event features more than 400 shops selling food, handmade goods, clothing and collectibles. Many vendors and guests alike dr

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