Every September, Washington County comes alive for one of the most beloved traditions in Texas: the Washington County Fair. Running September 11 through 19, 2026 at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Brenham, this nine-day celebration is the oldest county fair in the state — and it shows no signs of slowing down.
If you've never been, here's why you should mark your calendar right now.
Nine Days of Fair Fun
The Washington County Fair is a full-scale, carnival-rides-and-all county fair experience. Over nine days, the fairgrounds transform into a hub of live entertainment, rodeo action, livestock shows, and family-friendly attractions that draw visitors from across the region.
Expect carnival rides and games, live musical performances, food vendors serving up classic fair fare (think turkey legs, funnel cakes, and fresh-squeezed lemonade), commercial exhibits from local businesses, and the agricultural and livestock shows that give the fair its roots.
Don't Miss the Car Show — September 12
One of the most popular single-day events is the Car Show on September 12. Classic cars, hot rods, and custom builds line the fairgrounds as enthusiasts from around the area show off their prized vehicles. It's a crowd favorite whether you're a gearhead or just appreciate beautiful cars on a sunny Texas morning.
Rodeo and Livestock
True to its agricultural heritage, the fair features livestock shows and rodeo events that celebrate Washington County's ranching traditions. Local youth participate in 4-H and FFA livestock competitions, and the rodeo events bring the kind of authentic Texas excitement you can't find anywhere else.
A Washington County Tradition
What makes the Washington County Fair special isn't just the rides or the food — it's the feeling of community. Families who've been attending for generations share the fairgrounds with newcomers, and there's a genuine warmth to the whole experience. It's the kind of event where you bump into old friends, introduce your kids to small-town traditions, and remember why Washington County feels like home.
What: Washington County Fair
When: September 11 – 19, 2026
Where: Washington County Fairgrounds, Brenham, TX
Car Show: September 12
More Info: Visit Brenham Texas
The Washington County Fair is one of those events that captures everything people love about living in this part of Texas: tradition, community, and good old-fashioned fun. Put it on your calendar now — you'll be glad you did.
If you're thinking about calling Washington County home, the fair is just one of the many reasons people fall in love with this area. Schedule a time to chat with me about what it's really like to live in Brenham — I'd love to tell you more.
2026 Washington County Fair Queen Candidates
Five outstanding young women from Washington County are vying for the Fair Queen crown. The coronation takes place September 12 at 6:30 PM at the Washington County Expo. Get to know each candidate below.
Gentri Gutierrez
Gentri Gutierrez is a junior at Brenham High School, representing Washington County 4-H. She is the daughter of Savannah and Matt Gutierrez, granddaughter of Jody Schulz and the late Larry Schulz, and Terry and Matt Gutierrez.
Monnica Colanter
Monnica Colanter is a senior at Grace Lutheran School, representing Grace Lutheran High School Athletics. She is the daughter of Eddie N. and Brit Colanter, and granddaughter of Bonnie Lewis.
Brooke Mulder
Brooke Mulder is a junior at Brenham High School, representing Washington County 4-H. She is the daughter of Rheagan Mulder and granddaughter of Randy Gaskamp and the late Tina Gaskamp.
Lilly Baker
Lilly Baker is a senior at Brenham High School, representing Anchor Club. She is the daughter of Lacy and Raymund Sutton, granddaughter of Carolyn Baker, William Baker, Louie Sutton, and the late Ray Sutton.
Barnes Koehl
Barnes Koehl is a junior at Brenham High School, representing Brenham FFA. She is the daughter of Denise and Blaine Koehl, granddaughter of Patsy and Rayburn Kloeckner, and Deloris and Billie Koehl.
The Washington County Fair Queen will be crowned at the Expo on Saturday, September 12 at 6:30 PM during the Washington County Fair. For more information, visit the Washington County Fair website or read the candidate announcement on KWHI.
Discover What Makes Brenham Home
De Wayne Mortensen II, REALTOR® — Licensed in Texas and California — is a Sales Associate with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Hometown and the curator of The Brenham Buzz. He covers events, dining, and community life across Washington County. Got an event tip or community story? Email him at DeWayneSellsHomes@gmail.com.