Since 1881, the “fair” city of Fredericksburg has played host to the always-popular, always exciting and always fun Gillespie County Fair and, after this August’s incarnation, it will result in the latest installment of an impressive 133-year-run. Wow! Why, with so much longevity, you’d think folks would get tired of it but, this extraordinary extravaganza isn’t going anywhere – there’s just too many reasons why it can’t be missed, ever! So keep reading because, in this neck of the Hill Country, all’s “fair” (again) in Gillespie County.
As mentioned, the Gillespie County Fair got its start a ways back when Fredericksburg and its surrounding environs were still inhabited by its original German founders. Albeit, a smaller affair then with its attractions including animal, produce and cooking exhibitions, not to mention a little competitive horse racing to boot and of course, a lot of socializing, amazingly, it’s still just like that today, only much bigger and better. Yep, good things tend to last and, thanks to the oversite of the Gillespie County Fair Association (and a host of equally-selfless volunteers) we can continue to enjoy what those first “Deutsch” pioneers established so long ago.
The current iteration, scheduled to begin on Thursday, August 26, will commence with the accommodating 90-acre fairgrounds opening its gates at 5:00 p.m. The colorful midway will be in full swing (and spin and twirl). Also, under a covered pavilion, shoppers can browse among the 60-plus vendors booths where myriad “must haves” (arts, crafts, clothing, jewelry, foods, ag products, etc.) abound. Delicious chow and beverages will be in abundance under the roofed food court and elsewhere and then at 7:00 p.m., the lively La Calma Tejano band hits the stage to get the dancing started. Then, in the spacious exhibition hall, the more serious matter of the judging of ag products and home-skills will commence as well. All in all, a great start.
But, as any long-term attendee will attest, Friday morning (the 27th) is when the fair really kicks it into gear. At 10:00 a.m. the event’s signature, not-to-be-missed parade gets underway where up to 150 eye-dazzling entries including floats, marching bands, antique cars, cowboys, tractors and, even a lot of Hill Country royalty (Fair queens and such) start rolling, ranging and riding down Fredericksburg’s charming Main Street. Stretching for nearly a mile, viewers are definitely guaranteed a great time but, come early and don’t forget your lawn chairs. Then afterwards, (gates open at 1:00 p.m.) it’s off to the fairgrounds (again) where visitors can take in the various exhibits, eat, drink, visit the carnival (again) and, of course, do some more shopping. Later that evening the music tunes in anew as the always-entertaining Jody Nix and his Texas Cowboys step into the spotlights. Two-stepping time!
One thing about the Gillespie County Fair that all agree on is, there’s lots to do and see. And Saturday (the 28th) offers prime examples. As before, the carnival, vendors’ pavilion and various eateries will be in service by 10:00 a.m. but, before and after, attendees won’t want to miss the animal shows. Silky Angora goats, fluffy breeding sheep, curious goats and hefty, prime cattle will be on display within the livestock barn. There will also be a heated, come one, come all, washer pitching tourney seeking a champion. But of greater importance to some, at 1:00 p.m. the line-ups begin for one of the fair’s most popular offerings – the horse races. Yep, hundreds will head to the shaded stands surrounding the 5/8th mile-long track with their wagers made in advance and high hopes held for their selections. And, their off! Also, if you miss Saturday’s action, don’t worry. The horses run on Sunday too. Musically, the day is remarkably full with three special concerts scheduled featuring at 7:00 p.m., the melodic Holly Tucker, at 8:30, the crooning Curtis Grimes followed at 10:00 p.m. by the legendary Pam Tillis. Oh boy!
Sadly, as is said, all good things must come to an end and, for the Gillespie County Fair, that means Sunday (the 29th). At 11:00 a.m., the gates will open one final time to an eager public anxious for that last stroll through the midway, hot dog and chance to purchase something special from the vendors. As mentioned before, at 1:00 p.m. racing fans will be treated to some additional exciting, parimutuel thoroughbred competition. Then, at 6:00 p.m. the fair calls it another season. But for this August, all will be “fair” in Gillespie County. Hooray!
The Gillespie County Fair is located at 530 Fair Drive, in Fredericksburg, Texas 78624. For information on admission/concert fees, times, events and vendor registration, visit its Web site at: gillespiefair.com. The majority of proceeds generated go toward student scholarships.
