Houston, TX — April 14, 2025 — Hear ye, hear ye! The spirit of the Renaissance is coming alive in the heart of Houston’s EaDo district as the Texas Renaissance Festival (TRF), the largest and most legendary Renaissance-themed event in the nation, officially launches its 2025 ticket sales with a spectacular kickoff celebration at J-Bar-M Barbecue on Tuesday, April 15, from 5 to 8 p.m.

This family-friendly soirée is free to the public and promises an enchanting evening brimming with live entertainment, exclusive giveaways, and the chance to win two coveted season passes to the 2025 Texas Renaissance Festival. Whether you're a loyal festival-goer or a newcomer curious about the world of knights, jesters, and turkey legs, this event is your royal invitation to join the festivities.

 Credit: Texas Renaissance Festival
 Steven David  

 

Hosted by none other than The King himself, the celebration will transport guests into the magical world of the Texas Renaissance Festival — complete with interactive performances, beloved festival entertainers, and the mouthwatering delight of TRF’s famous smoked turkey legs, prepared on-site in J-Bar-M’s celebrated pit room.

Unlock Royal Savings with an Exclusive Ticket Offer

In conjunction with the April 15 launch event, TRF is rolling out a limited-time offer fit for any noble household: festivalgoers can snag a four-pack of tickets for any weekend of the 2025 season for just $80 (plus taxes and fees) — a 20% discount — by using the code FUN51 at checkout on texrenfest.com. But heed this medieval warning: this special offer is available for only ten days!

Celebrating Over Five Decades of Magic and Merriment

Entering its 51st spectacular season, the Texas Renaissance Festival continues to enchant more than half a million visitors each year with its immersive 16th-century European village, sprawling across 70 scenic acres in Todd Mission, Texas — just an hour north of Houston.

This year’s festival promises another unforgettable lineup of eight uniquely themed weekends, running from October 11 through November 30, including a special Thanksgiving Friday celebration. From swashbuckling adventures and artisan treasures to culinary delights that blend Old World flavors with Texas flair, TRF offers a one-of-a-kind experience that keeps families and fantasy lovers coming back year after year.

 Credit: Texas Renaissance Festival
 Steven David  

J-Bar-M Barbecue: Houston’s Home for Legendary BBQ and Community Gatherings

The excitement doesn’t stop with the festival itself. J-Bar-M Barbecue, a crown jewel of Houston’s barbecue scene, is proud to partner with TRF for this grand event. Since opening its doors in 2021, J-Bar-M has quickly earned a reputation as a Texas BBQ heavyweight, having been named one of the Top 25 Best New BBQ Joints in Texas by Texas Monthly in 2023.

Founded by Houston native John Toomey — who, at the age of 93, turned his lifelong passion into reality — J-Bar-M is now a thriving family-run destination, led alongside his grandson Charles Toomey and a stellar culinary team headed by Pitmaster Nick Orozco. Known for its Central Texas-style brisket, inventive Tex-Mex fusions, and house-made desserts, J-Bar-M also offers a vibrant setting complete with a large covered patio, an impressive 179-inch outdoor LED screen, and larger-than-life murals from some of Houston’s most acclaimed artists.

Mark Your Calendar: April 15 is the Royal Kickoff!

Whether you’re craving the rich, smoky aroma of brisket, the festive thrill of a joust, or the magic of the Renaissance, the Texas Renaissance Festival’s 2025 launch party at J-Bar-M Barbecue is the place to be. Costumes are encouraged, smiles are guaranteed, and memories are waiting to be made.

For more information about the Texas Renaissance Festival, visit texrenfest.com. To explore Houston’s beloved J-Bar-M Barbecue, visit jbarmbbq.com.