A LEGACY OF TRADITION, COMMUNITY, and FAMILY FUN

by Ann Marie Kennon

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR & RODEO • OCTOBER 22-25

When the gates swing open at the Williamson County Fair & Rodeo, families from across Central Texas are welcomed into more than just a weekend of rodeo, music, and carnival rides. They’re stepping into a living tradition—one rooted in Williamson County’s heritage and built for the generations to come.

Now celebrating its fifth anniversary, the Fair & Rodeo has cemented its place as the premier fall event in the county.

“We’re not just putting on a fair...” Executive Director Kelley Hernandez-Host

“We’re bringing together tradition, family fun, and quality entertainment while spotlighting our youth, agriculture, and history. It’s everything that makes Williamson County special.”

Building A Legacy

The story of this event is one of vision, persistence, and community support. Early champions—including Kelley, Board President Nathan Winstead, Scott Heselmeyer, and former County Judge Dan A. Gattis—saw the potential of a countywide fair and rodeo. Together with the leadership of Clint Chitsey, then executive director of the Expo Center, they navigated the red tape, secured county support, and laid the foundation for what would become a legacy event.

Nathan, who has worked in farm credit for over a decade, sees the event as a means of preserving rural America and passing on heritage. “Being part of this from the beginning has been a privilege,” he says. “We wanted to create something that not only entertains but also preserves our agricultural roots and showcases the best of Williamson County.”

Judge Gattis is known across Texas for his leadership at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo before serving as county judge. He was instrumental in paving the way for the Fair & Rodeo’s launch and his legacy continues to shape its growth. Kelley adds, "This event would not be possible without the help and support from the very beginning from Judge Gattis and the Commissioners Court who provided the initial seed money."

YOUTH AT THE CENTER

From the start, the Fair & Rodeo has been about more than broncs and bulls. Each year organizers ask, “How can we involve more kids?” The answer has led to scholarships, hands-on exhibits, and new traditions that help prepare the next generation.

Over just five years, the association has awarded $50,000 in scholarships to local students. The addition of the Children’s Business Fair, coordinated by Stephanie Tyler of Round the Rock, gives young entrepreneurs a platform to test their ideas and practice old-fashioned business skills—shaking hands, making eye contact, and pitching products face to face. Some participants have already turned their projects into thriving businesses.

“Watching those kids light up as they introduce themselves and share their work— it gives me hope,” Kelley says. “These aren’t kids hiding behind screens. They’re engaging, confident, and ready to build something lasting.”

GENERATIONAL IMPACT

For Kelley, Nathan, and their team, the Fair & Rodeo is about creating something that will endure. “We’re already planning next year before this year's event even begins,” Kelley admits. “We want this to be a 125-year tradition for Williamson County, the kind of event families grow up with and pass on.”

Sponsors and volunteers play a critical role in sustaining that vision. From local businesses that invest in scholarships to headline sponsor Nyle Maxwell, whose contributions help attract top rodeo talent, the event thrives because the community rallies around it.

A WEEKEND FOR EVERYONE

The rodeo itself is October 22-25 at the Williamson County Expo Center, drawing competitors and families alike. Thursday is Veterans Night, with free admission and special recognition of service members. Friday and Saturday bring live music with local acts like Suede, All Hat No Cadillac, and rising Georgetown artist El Townley, recently nominated as Texas Young Artist of the Year. Family favorites like mutton bustin’, pig races, and the petting zoo return, while new features like the Bill Pickett Barbecue Cookoff and Adventureland’s hands-on Ag experiences broaden the fun.

And then there are the traditions in the making—like “Old Blue,” a vintage pickup decorated as a photo stop. Families pose year after year, creating mile-marker memories that echo what the fair is all about: continuity, connection, and community.

As Williamson County grows, the Fair & Rodeo stands as a reminder of what makes this place unique: a blend of history, hard work, and heart. It’s a weekend of fried food and carnival lights, yes—but more importantly, it’s an investment in the future, in the kids, and in the spirit of Texas itself.

Founders’ Legacy

The Williamson County Fair & Rodeo was built on vision and persistence. Early champions who helped Judge Gattis bring the dream to life:

 Scott Heselmeyer was instrumental in the organizational groundwork and early planning.

 Clint Chitsey, former executive director of the Expo Center, who provided leadership in the venue’s launch and support for the rodeo’s start.

 Nathan Winstead, founding board member and now president, committed to preserving rural heritage and youth involvement.

 Kelley Hernandez-Host, executive director of the association, has shepherded the event into its fifth anniversary and beyond.

Together, these leaders laid the foundation for a generational celebration of community, tradition, and Texas spirit.