Texas Ren Fest

Shopping is the last thing I want to be doing on "Black Friday". I had a lot more fun at the Texas Renaissance Festival west of Conroe. If you've never been to the "ren fest", I highly recommend the experience. Those people have faithfully and accurately recreated the atmosphere and ambiance of a small renaissance-era town complete with shops, shows, knights, vagabonds and a whole lot of merriment.

It was great getting to spend the day with my parents and two cousins. My mother is especially fond of the shows, and I can see why with such entertainment as a falconry show, a court jester's act, and genuine royal jousting competition.

Quite possibly the highlight of my day there was getting to witness a real wedding at the "water garden chapel" on the grounds. Apparently, you can rent it out the whole deal for your wedding. It includes full costumes for the bride, groom and the whole wedding party, a carriage processional through the crowds to the wedding area, a priest for the ceremony, and a reception. Needless to say, my inner photographer was jumping up and down with glee.

On the way home, we stopped at an amazing burger shop called Five Guys Burgers and Fries. Their claim to fame is fresh, never-frozen, juicy burgers and delicious hand-cut fries. While you're there, feel free to grab some complimentary dry roasted in-the-shell peanuts. They even play classic rock music for your enjoyment. Great dining experience.

All in all, it was a great day! As always, you can check out all the pictures at THE WEBSITE. Enjoy!