Gillespie County Fair — The Oldest County Fair in Texas, Right in Fredericksburg

What to Do at the Gillespie County Fair

Every August, Fredericksburg, TX plays host to one of the most beloved traditions in the Lone Star State — the Gillespie County Fair, the oldest continuously running county fair in Texas. Held over four days at the Gillespie County Fairgrounds & Exhibition Hall at 530 Fair Drive, this fair is a true celebration of community, agriculture, and good old-fashioned fun for the whole family.

With its roots stretching back well over a century, the Gillespie County Fair is far more than a weekend event — it's a living piece of Texas Hill Country history that draws visitors from across the state year after year.

What to expect:

• Midway rides, carnival games, and family entertainment across four full days
• Livestock judging, stock show, and FFA and 4-H exhibits celebrating Gillespie County's rich agricultural heritage
• Pari-mutuel horse racing on the fairgrounds — a beloved Hill Country tradition held during the fair's final two days
• Top-notch live entertainment and dancing on the main stage each evening
• Antique tractor shows, arts and crafts displays, and agricultural and household exhibits
• A variety of fairground food and drink options, including beer and wine
• The crowning of the Gillespie County Fair Queen

The Fair Parade on Main Street - One of the fair's most anticipated events is the free annual parade down Historic Main Street in downtown Fredericksburg. Featuring over 200 units, it's one of the largest parades in the Texas Hill Country. The parade steps off behind the courthouse and travels east through downtown — bring your lawn chairs and arrive early for a great spot.

Know Before You Go:

• The fair runs Thursday through Sunday each August, with gates opening Thursday evening and expanded hours Friday through Sunday
• Thursday admission to the grounds and main stage concert is free for everyone
• Tickets are priced by day and age; children 5 and under are always free
• All fairground food and beverages are purchased with fair tickets (1 ticket = $1), available on the fairgrounds
• Beer and wine are available but limited to two alcoholic beverages per person
• No coolers or outside food and drinks are permitted; Yeti cups are welcome
• No pets allowed (ADA service animals only)
• Lawn chairs are welcome for races and concerts

Four Days of Fair Fun Deserve the Perfect Place to Stay

The Gillespie County Fair is one of the biggest weekends of the year in Fredericksburg — and accommodations fill up fast. Lock in your Hill Country home base with Fredericksburg Stays and make a full weekend out of the rides, racing, live music, and small-town tradition.