Fort Bend County Fair to open Friday, with focus on inclusivity, youth – Houston Public Media

Photo Courtesy of Barbara Magana Robertson

The Fort Bend County Fair opens this weekend, with Sugar Land Olympian Simone Manuel leading the parade on Friday. It is expected to draw more than 100,000 visitors this year.

The fair’s spokesperson, Barbara Magana Robertson, said this year’s theme is “Defying Challenges, Raising Champions” – a name chosen by the fair’s president as a way to focus on inclusivity.

“Our fair is really inclusive to all, especially kids who are living on the spectrum and she wanted to make sure that everyone knew that they were inclusive,” Magana said.

The fair will have a new area for children with sensory issues. It will also include a rodeo for children with disabilities, a horse show featuring disabled participants and a day for special needs adults.

Organizers also focus on benefiting local students. Last year, the fair’s livestock and art show auctions generated $1.5 million. The money went directly to students who were selling their animals and exhibits.

This year, the fair’s scholarship also awarded more than $250,000 to students.

Magana Robertson grew up attending the Fort Bend County Fair, and recalls watching family members compete in the rodeo throughout the years.

“It’s the fabric of who my family is, but I’m speaking for one family,” she said. “The Fort Bend County Fair has been an absolute foundation for so many families.”