When I was a kid I was obsessed with fantasy novels, particularly Narnia and Alice in Wonderland. The thing that brought those two books together for me was that ordinary kids could somehow find a magical world that promised adventure. Whether it was a closet, like Narnia or just a dream, like Alice in Wonderland, these kids now had access to an adventure of a lifetime. I was insanely jealous of these characters because I would have given anything to be in an alternate world for even a day.

On October 23rd, my dreams came true. I went to the Texas Renaissance Festival. The Texas Renaissance Festival is an annual festival located in Todd Mission, Texas. It recreates the Renaissance time period, while adding magical elements. 

When I walked through those entrance doors, I was transported into a different world. I was immediately met with a parade of workers in elaborate costumes, playing old folk music and throwing flowers. 

The shops were an experience in itself. Every store was decked head to toe with stuff I have only ever seen in movies or heard about in books, like real swords or renaissance dresses. They were small and cramped, but for some reason it felt fitting and I kind of liked it. I shopped until I heard what sounded vaguely like rock or sailor music. 

I followed the sound to see what was going on. I zig zagged through the festival, passing girls feeding ducks, fried food stands, carriage rides and more until I found the source. It was a rock band that had turned old sailor songs into punk music. 

Being there felt refreshing. It was like all the stress of school and theater had evaporated. I could just run around and do anything I want. I could watch the valiant jousting matches. I could go try all the versions of fried food they had. I could even watch the singing and acting performances. It was a much needed distraction. It was like I was a kid again. I was unabashedly excited about everything, and I had the energy for all of it. 

If walking in felt like a start of an awesome fantasy novel, leaving felt like the bitter end. As I got closer and closer to my car I could feel my heart sink more and more. Suddenly I remembered all the assignments I had left to do, and all the stuff I had to deal with at home. Driving home felt like impending doom. I distinctly remember saying, “the worst part of this day is that it’s ending.” 

I think on some level the Renaissance Festival was a form of escapism. I was in an unfamiliar place, rooted in fantasy. I was wearing things that I never wore before, with people I knew I would never see again. 

I plan on going back to the Renaissance Festival soon, and I am so excited to be transported into that world again.