Texas RenFest Founder Sells Festival to Managers

TODD MISSION, Texas — After nearly five decades as the visionary force behind the largest event of its kind in the nation, George Coulam has officially sold the Texas Renaissance Festival. The multi-million dollar transaction, finalized in late October 2023, marks a monumental turning point for the Waller County institution, shifting ownership from its founding architect to a team deeply entrenched in the festival’s storied history.

The festival, which spans over 70 acres in Todd Mission, has been sold to an investment group led by Bobby and Dee Dee Bryant. To long-time patrons and performers, the Bryants are familiar fixtures, frequently referred to as the "King and Queen" of the festival. Their stewardship comes after more than a decade of active involvement, including the last six years serving as the primary architects of the event’s daily operations.

Bobby Bryant, who also serves as the mayor of Todd Mission, signaled a transition of continuity rather than radical overhaul. Following the public announcement of the sale in early November, Bryant addressed concerns regarding the future of the beloved tradition.

"We're going to make sure the legacy continues," Bryant said. "We're not changing a thing, except for the better."

The sale is expansive in scope, encompassing the entire Texas Renaissance Festival enterprise. This includes the massive festival grounds, the Sherwood Forest Faire near Austin, Stargate Manor, and an array of affiliated business interests that support the operational ecosystem of the events.

For 78-year-old George Coulam, the sale represents the end of a transformative chapter that began in 1974. When Coulam first opened the gates, the festival was a modest gathering that has since ballooned into a cultural juggernaut, drawing more than 500,000 visitors annually. The event has played a critical role in the economic development of Waller County, transforming the landscape of the quiet town of Todd Mission into a vibrant hub of historical fantasy and immersive theater.

"It was time," Coulam said of his decision to step down as the primary owner. "It was a wonderful ride, but now it's time to pass the torch."

While Coulam is surrendering his title as owner, he is not retiring into total obscurity. The agreement stipulates that Coulam will retain a seat on the Board of Directors. In this advisory role, he is expected to serve as a bridge to the past, offering institutional knowledge and acting as an emissary for the brand he spent 49 years cultivating.

The Texas Renaissance Festival has long been noted for its strict adherence to historical atmosphere, high-production values, and a dedicated community of artisans, performers, and "rennies" who return year after year. With the Bryants’ deep-rooted history in the festival’s day-to-day management, stakeholders and fans alike are expecting a seamless transition as the 2024 season approaches.

Under the new ownership, the festival is expected to maintain its traditional calendar and scope. Further information regarding upcoming performance schedules and seasonal updates can be found on the official festival website at texrenfest.com.

For related local information, explore more local reporting, the permit-records desk, and the Civic Week desk. These desks have their own coverage dates and source notices.