Things to Do

Pari-Mutuel Horse Racing Spells Fun in Fredericksburg

By  | 
Tony Maples Photography

 

The Gillespie County Fair & Festivals Association is bringing live pari-mutuel horse racing back to Fredericksburg Downs, in the Texas Hill Country. For four weekends this upcoming season, the track will host some fantastic racing action, not to mention a professional bull-riding event, as well as the “Oldest Continuous County Fair in Texas”!

Kick-Off Weekend

mysanantoniodotcom300

Photo: mysanantonio.com

Exciting live horse racing at the Fairgrounds’ Class 3 track will kick off July 2 and 3 with quarter horse and thoroughbred racing as well as special races, trials, and futurities. Fans of the sport won’t want to miss a moment of fun at Fredericksburg Downs as the sound of hoofs beating around the track marries with the cheering, good times, and of course the wagers!

‘Sommerzeit’ and Some Are Great!

gillespiefairdotnet

Photo: gillespiefair.net

July 16 and 17 will see the second of these events taking place, coupled with ‘Sommerzeit’, presented by Night in Old Fredericksburg on July 16 only. This event is labeled as “a new celebration of Hill Country Cultures” and promises to be a very worthwhile, good time. More information on this cultural celebration can be found on the Fairgrounds’ website at www.gillespiefair.net.

Third Time’s a Charm

texasluxurydotcom

Photo: texasluxury.com

Returning August 13 and 14, the pari-mutuel horse racing will continue with concurrent local livestock shows! Post time is 1:00 pm each day and gates open at 11 a.m., with races being run until approximately 6 p.m.

Oldest Continuous County Fair in Texas!

gillespiefairdotnet2

Photo: gillespiefair.net

Not to be missed is the great Gillespie County Fair weekend, held August 25-28 in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. The whole family will enjoy four fun-filled days of carnival and midway rides, delicious fair food, agricultural and household exhibits, livestock judging, antique tractor shows, arts and crafts, and live pari-mutuel horse racing! On Friday, August 26, Jeff Woolsey & The Dancehall Kings will be the evening’s entertainment, while Saturday, August 27 features Granger Smith (with Earl Dibbles, Jr.) and special guest star Gene Watson!

Final Pari-Mutuel & PBR

bccourierdotcom

Photo: bccourier.com

The final pari-mutuel horse racing event will take place at the track August 27 & 28, with a follow-up 7th Annual PBR (Professional Bull Riding) event happening September 10. Interested fans are asked to visit the fairgrounds’ website at www.gillespiefair.net for more information, including start times, gate opening as well as race times.

Sign Me Up Son!

pinterestdotcom100

Photo: pinterest.com

Tickets to all events are available online and further information can be had by calling (830) 997-2359 or via email at [email protected]. If you’re coming from out-of-town, be sure and review accommodation and local eatery information at www.visitfredericksburgtx.com.