Each summer, the Texas Hill Country comes alive with one of its most cherished traditions, and few county fairs capture that spirit like the Gillespie County Fair. Held at the historic fairgrounds just minutes from our front door, this four-day gathering blends carnival lights, livestock pens, blue-ribbon baking, and the thunder of horse racing into a quintessential Texas summer.
When you stay in the upscale lodging at Inn on Barons Creek, you are perfectly placed to enjoy the fair by day and return to a peaceful creekside hotel in downtown Fredericksburg, TX, each evening.
Everything to Know About the Gillespie County Fair
Founded in 1881, the Gillespie County Fair is the oldest continuous county fair in Texas and a true point of pride for the community. Run by a local nonprofit that funds scholarships for county students and champions youth agriculture, it has grown into a four-day celebration that draws families from all over the Texas Hill Country. Here is what to know before you go.
When and Where to Find the Fair
The fair takes place over the last weekend of August, running Thursday through Sunday at the fairgrounds and exhibition hall at 530 Fair Drive. Thursday traditionally offers free grounds admission, making it an easy evening to wander in, and children five and under are always welcome at no charge. Please be sure to review the full schedule before you arrive for the most up-to-date information.
Carnival Rides, Exhibits, and Family Fun
There is truly something for everyone at the Gillespie County Fair:
- Family-Friendly Fun: Little ones gravitate toward the carnival and midway, with its rides, games, and classic fair food like funnel cakes and sausage on a stick.
- Indoor Attractions: Inside the air-conditioned exhibition halls, you will find livestock judging, FFA and 4-H showcases, antique tractor displays, arts and crafts, and the judging of pies, cakes, cookies, and quilts.
- Gillespie County Fair Traditions: Friendly traditions like a washer-pitching tournament and a lively game of 42 in the biergarten add to the fun.
- Live Entertainment: Evenings bring live music and dancing under the Texas Hill Country sky, with recent lineups welcoming Texas country favorites like Tracy Byrd and the Bellamy Brothers, along with the crowning of the Fair Queen.
Experience Pari-Mutuel Horse Racing
A signature highlight is the live pari-mutuel horse racing, often called the Sport of Kings. Held on a Class 3 track, the races feature both Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred competitors, including trials and futurities. Racing runs across several weekends through the summer, wrapping up with the final two days on the Saturday and Sunday of the Gillespie County Fair.
The Gillespie County Fair Fair Parade
One of the most popular fair events is a lively parade that makes its way through downtown Fredericksburg. It begins near the courthouse and travels along historic Main Street, just a short stroll from the Inn on Barons Creek, so you can claim a curbside spot with ease!
After a full day at the Gillespie County Fair, there is no better place to relax than the Inn on Barons Creek. Book your stay today!