When I was little and would proclaim that something was not fair, Momma would always respond with “the Fair is in August.” If I would make my proclamation in August, she’d quip “Well, sometimes life just sucks.”
As I mentioned, the official kick-off to the Fair is the parade. But then what? THEN you go out to the Fairgrounds and be entertained!
There’s something for everyone. Go get up close and personal with livestock. That’s right: pigs, goats, steers (aka cattle), sheep. DON’T just walk up and pet them. It’s not a petting zoo. But you can walk around and look at them. Sit in the grandstands and watch the show (they’re all competing to be the best). Okay, so maybe you’re not familiar with how to show pigs or steers, but I’m sure you’re well-versed in the Westminster Dog Show. Same concept different animals.
Since I grew up showing steers, lambs, and pigs, I’m happy to steer (ha ha ha pun intended!) clear and head to the horse races. I’m not a big gambler, but the horses are rather majestic to watch.
If you want something fun, go watch the pig races. Encourage someone you know to be a cheerleader and hope that their pig comes in first. The prize is…well, hys-snoot-ical!
If horseracing and stock shows aren’t your thing, there’s always the carnival. I personally don’t ride anymore. Too many trips on the Tilt-A-Whirl when I was younger, but getting some cotton candy and watching my nieces laugh so hard they’re doubled over and can’t breathe is priceless!
Don’t forget to stop by the Main Hall, where everyone’s hard work is on display. There are categories for everything: growing fruits & veggies, baking (the pie category is my favorite), canning (mmmm…sauerkraut and pickled okra), and even sewing, stitching, crocheting and knitting. You can find it all here!
Of course, there’s food! Since Fredericksburg has a very German heritage, the Fair food reflects that and trust me when I say that you could probably get sauerkraut on ANYTHING. Even your funnel cake, but I really wouldn’t recommend that. What do I get? Glad you asked. It’s called The Oma & Opa. It’s polish sausage (made here in Fredericksburg by Opa’s) on a buttered roll, slathered in sauerkraut with mustard on top. YUMMMMMMM-O!
Finally, don’t leave after the sun goes down–there’s still dancing. Or, for me, drinking beer and talking with everyone. A full day of fun and adventure. Big or small. City or country. Either way, if you let go, you’ll have a blast!
The Epicurious Texan 