The Texas Renaissance Festival remains under the control of George Coulam’s estate, the festival's founder, as a legal appeal delays a court-ordered sale. Despite the dispute, organizers say the 2026 season will proceed as planned.
The Texas Renaissance Festival will continue its 2026 season as attorneys for George Coulam's estate challenge a court order requiring the sale of the festival.
The March 12 First Court of Appeals appeal challenges a 2024 order from the 506th State District Court, issued by Judge Gary W. Chaney, mandating that the event be sold. Court records show that attorneys representing prospective buyers requested an extension of the response deadline on Monday.
In August 2023, RW Lands Inc. filed a civil case alleging that Coulam companies agreed to sell the festival property and related assets for $60 million but failed to do so.
Judge Chaney ordered Coulam to pay the buyer almost $23 million in damages and attorneys' fees arising from the dispute. Coulam, 87, died two weeks after the verdict on May 21, 2024.
Coulam's estate and the attorneys for the connected corporations have not commented on the lawsuit.
Attorney Anthony Laporte, representing buyer Meril Rivard, said the appeal will not delay festival preparations.
“The Estate of Mr. Coulam and the festival operators have decided to appeal the court judgment,” Laporte stated. The parties are working to ensure that the festival continues for the benefit of all and the community while continuing the fight at the Court of Appeals.
Laporte added that Rivard is dedicated to buying the event and safeguarding its future.
He claimed, "Mr. Rivard and his group are committed to acquiring the festival and working with it, the vendors, the community, and the valued patrons to ensure Ren Fest's long-term success." “It appears, however, we will need additional victories to ensure that outcome.”
Festival organizers stressed continuity, saying 2026 plans are ongoing. Since 1974, Texas has hosted the festival, which now draws over 500,000 guests annually.
“Last year’s festival season showed guests a vibrant, successful, and immersive experience,” festival leadership stated.
October 10 is the opening date for the 2026 season, which runs weekends through November 29, including the Friday after Thanksgiving. There are tickets, camping reservations, and performance auditions.
While the legal process continues, festival organizers are focused on preserving its legacy.
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