March 8-10, 2012

Zapata County Fair, best fair yet

Every spring, excitement fills the South Texas brush country as the Zapata County Fair rolls into town.   County Fairs stand as the hallmark of Texana culture, and here in South Texas, the Zapata County Fair breathes life into the community’s soul.

Basking in its unique bicultural and binational ambiance, the Zapata County Fair showcases the very best that is Zapata County.  From its spectacularly regal Queen Pageant to its exciting livestock competition, from the feasting up and down the midway to the thrilling carnival rides, the Zapata County Fair has something for everyone.

Last year, the ZCF introduced new and enticing activities, designed to attract every member of the family.  These included the electrifying Battle of the Bands, where three local and regional favorites vie for the chance to be crowned the top musical act in the area.  This maiden event is sure to join the pantheon of beloved traditions held sacred by fair-goer.  There are also some events that endure, such as the venerable trail ride, where participants channel their inner cowboy (or, if the case may be, cowgirl) in homage to that rich Texas tradition.

Of course, what county fair would be complete without the music?  The Zapata County Fair boasts an impressive line of boot-scooting Tejano favorites designed to keep everyone on the dance floor until the wee hours.  

Along with combining the best of the traditional county fair genre with new, innovative features, the Zapata County Fair also serves as the venue of choice for family reunions.  Relatives and friends make the annual trek to Zapata to visit loved ones, often planning their trips around the dates of the fair.  In fact, it’s been said that most family reunions happen while the fair is in town.  It’s common to run into old friends and classmates while meandering through the midway.  Friendships are renewed and relationships reconnected.  No wonder the Zapata County Fair maintains a solid reputation as Texas’ unofficial family reunion capitol!

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE.