Every year, the State Fair’s Livestock department hosts several free pre-Fair horse shows on weekends leading up to the State Fair of Texas. This year’s event lineup begins the first weekend of August and runs through the first weekend of September. We invite you and your family to come out and watch some of the pros race around the Fair Park Coliseum. Parking and admission are FREE, so just head over to Gate 11 to enter and enjoy the show.
2019 PRE-FAIR HORSE EVENTS
BARREL RACE: AUGUST 2-4 AT 9 A.M.
Rounds the first barrel, heads towards the second, clears the third and races home! Barrel racing is an exhilarating sport. Come out and see for yourself, watch these folks sprint as fast as they can.
TEAM ROPING: AUGUST 9 AT 7:30 A.M. AND AUGUST 10 AT 9 A.M.
A dynamic duo is key: two folks, two horses, and one fast steer! See which team will prevail and score the fastest time.
RANCH SORTING: AUGUST 16-18 AT 9 A.M.
Ranch sorting is an event that includes two talented teammates working against the clock and in harmony to sort cattle. Quick thinking, even faster reactions, and horses at work! Head out to catch true horsemen in their natural environment.
ARABIANS: AUGUST 23-25 AT 9 A.M.
An Arabian is a breed of horse known for its unique characteristics, high spirits, and alertness. Come see these beautiful animals compete amongst their peers in the Fair Park Coliseum on this weekend!
APPALOOSAS: SEPTEMBER 6-8 AT 9 A.M.
Appaloosa horses have a unique, spotted pattern all over their bodies — much like a Dalmatian! And just like snowflakes, no two patterns are the same. See these horses for yourself September 6-8.
DONKEY AND MULES: SEPTEMBER 7 AT 9 A.M.
Sweet faces, big ears, and even bigger personalities! Donkeys and mules are known for their willing, but sometimes stubborn personality. Come check them out, one day only.
Looking for more livestock events? Check out our Special Events page for more information on our State Fair Rodeo over Labor Day weekend, August 30 and 31. Awarded UPRA “New Rodeo of the Year” in 2018, this old State Fair tradition is an event you don’t want to miss.