Behold Giant Turkey Legs and Decadent Desserts From the Texas Renaissance Festival

Beginning every October and lasting through Thanksgiving weekend, more than 500,000 lords and ladies descend upon the largest renaissance festival in the country to embrace the enchanting fantasy world of fairies, elves, pirates, and barbarians. The resulting scene is not unlike what would happen if Disneyland and Las Vegas had an baby.

Visitors come to revel from miles around at live shows ranging from family-friendly dances and variety acts to vulgar (but hilarious) literary presentations and assorted mini concerts on over 20 stages. Meanwhile, costumed shopkeeper peddle everything from corsets and crystals to pirate hats. Far more are drawn to the myriad of excuses to swap dollars for edible delights. With over 35 independently operated "restaurants" scattered around the 55 acre property, going hungry is not only frowned upon but a downright embarrassment to the kingdom. Don’t let this happen to you.

Eater checked out the scene during opening weekend to give you a taste of what to expect on your journey through this fantasyland of food and fun. Grab a goblet, fill it to the brim with the king’s mead, and prepare to gorge thyself. Huzzah!