Tag Archive for: East Texas State Fair

Enjoy Delicious Treats At Fair Food Drive-In Days In Tyler

Do you love fair food? Well, you don’t have to wait until September to sink your teeth into a turkey leg, funnel cake, corn dog, or any other delicious treats. The East Texas State Fair is hosting Fair Food Drive-In Days from June 4-7 behind Harvey Convention Center in Tyler.

John Sykes, President and CEO of the East Texas State Fair, called this event “one of the most exciting things that we’ve ever tried to do, especially non-fair time.” Pick up food and enjoy it wherever you please. Eat in the car. Bring it back home. Tailgate in your front yard. The choice is all yours.

East Texas State Fair's Fair Food Drive-In Days

Grab some delicious treats at the East Texas State Fair’s Fair Food Drive-In Days.

Stonewater Roofing is at the event, handing out free bags and telling visitors how a new roof can provide peace of mind. Be sure to look for us when you’re there!

The idea for this new event came directly as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. “As things began to open up, we thought, what is a better way to make people happy than to have some fair food available, just even for a few days,” Sykes explained. But it was not just about those craving fair food. This event helps the hard-working vendors as well.

“The concessionaires have been completely frozen out,” Sykes said. “All the events around the United States, if they haven’t been canceled, they’ve been delayed or postponed, and they’re literally starving. They needed a chance to work and to have a chance to make an extra dollar.”

The early results have pleased fair officials. “We have been completely surprised,” said Sykes. He had no idea what to expect from this event. In fact, he is already thinking about plans for next year. “It’s just unbelievable how many folks have come out and enjoyed everything from turkey legs to french fries.”

“We would deem it highly successful,” Sykes added.

However, the focus will soon shift to the East Texas State Fair. Officials are keeping a close eye on government guidelines, hoping that the fair can still open on September 25 as planned. “Right now,” Sykes said, “this is a prelude into the East Texas State Fair in September.”

Academic Rodeo Recognizes Brightest Students In East Texas

Some of the brightest young minds in East Texas received awards and scholarships on Friday during the annual Academic Rodeo, organized by the East Texas State Fair and sponsored in part by Stonewater Roofing. The competition recognizes more than 300 students across all grade levels.

The Academic Rodeo began in 2013 and has awarded $11,000 each year.

Elementary school winners walk away with a cash prize, while middle school and high school winners are able to apply for various college scholarships. Participating students may also receive trophies, medallions, ribbons or certificates. In addition to the lucky kids, outstanding educators are also named for each level and given cash awards of their own.

The contests started late last year, however, winners and prizes were not announced until this month.

Students were able to compete in 14 different categories: Academic Challenge, Agriculture Identification, Art, Computer Science, Drama, Engineering, Fashion, Kinder Critters (Crafting), Math, Mindset Breaking, Science, Spelling, Writing and the Pentathlon which combines basic subjects.

Stonewater Roofing is proud of the students for delivering another outstanding competition this year, and congratulates all of the winners.

Click here to see the full list of winners.

East Texas State Fair Brings Family Fun To Tyler

Summer has come to an end, but that does not mean that the outdoor fun is over. It is time again for the East Texas State Fair, happening September 20-29 at The Park of East Texas in Tyler (2112 West Front Street). This year’s festivities promise to deliver some of the area’s best entertainment for family members of all ages.

The top musical acts include country star Aaron Watson on September 21 and classic rock legend Bret Michaels on September 28. Both artists will be hitting the Stonewater Roofing Stage along with La Invasora Conjunto Fest on September 29. (Note: A separate ticket is required for admission to Watson and Michaels.)

East Texas State Fair Music

In addition to these highlighted artists, fairgoers can also check out Mike & The Moonpies, Holly Tucker, Sabrina Toole, Duelly Noted, David Beck’s Tejano Weekend, The Bluez Boyz, The Tuxedo Cats, The Rock Bottom Boys, Billie Jo, The Darrin Morris Band, and jazz performances from UT Tyler and TJC bands.

But the East Texas State Fair features much more than great live music. Attendees can check out a farm-to-table cooking show, livestock shows, a sea lion show, magic from illusionist Kardenni, and a stunt performance by The Nerveless Nocks. There will also be a petting zoo for kids.

All of this comes free with the price of admission.

Of course, this is accompanied by the standard fair staples such as carnival rides and games, art booths, and a mouthwatering array of foods and craft beers. The event attracts more than 250,000 visitors each year and brings an estimated $9.8 million to the City of Tyler and Smith County.

Visit the East Texas State Fair’s official website to purchase tickets in advance and see complete details including times, the full schedule of events, and parking information. Stonewater Roofing is a proud sponsor of this event.