So here it is in August and I’ve decided to spend a bit of my free time at home and you can’t go home in August and NOT go to the Fair. If you’ve never been to a small county fair, you should definitely put it on your bucket list. I know, I know…it seems a bit hokey and backwards, but get over your big city self and immerse yourself and just enjoy. I obviously enjoy fairs since this isn’t my first fair post (remember my Minnesota State Fair homage to food?!?), but of course my hometown fair is my favorite! Part of it is seeing people I haven’t seen in a long time, but mostly because it’s fun.
The main kick-off to the Fair is the parade, which has a little bit of everything: marching bands, floats, horses, and even longhorns! Think Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, without the floating balloons and a lot more, um, Texan.
For the parade, Main Street completely shuts down for 10 blocks and just a warning if you’re visiting or just passing through: EVERYTHING stops for the parade. Not just the traffic–even businesses close so that everyone can attend. And nearly everyone does. If you want a good seat what you need to do is find your spot the night before and claim it by parking your truck there. And don’t wait too late the night before, as all the locals do this and will grab up the best spots.
The parade itself lasts about an hour to an hour and half….just a bit of advice if you’re searching for a county fair and parade to attend, go to Fredericksburg, Texas where there is no Open Container Law while walking on Main Street, so you can enjoy a nice refreshing adult beverage if you wish while sitting in the hot, hot Texas sun. Don’t forget your sunscreen, as you can easily get a nasty sunburn in that short bit of time!
Then sit back and enjoy. Wave to the floats or trucks or tractors or cowboys on horses & longhorns. Smile and laugh like you were 4 again. That, my friends, is one of the best ways to spend a morning! : )
The Epicurious Texan 