The Austin County Fair’s Annual Shrimp Boil, also known as the Entertainment Launch Party Kickoff for the fair, took place on Friday, July 21, 2023. This beloved yearly tradition sets the stage for the upcoming Austin County Fair and is eagerly anticipated by locals and visitors alike. The theme for the 2023 fair was “Denim Jeans & Country Dreams,” capturing the essence of Texan country culture.
The doors to the event opened at 5:30 pm, with the shrimp boil being served from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. As attendees enjoyed a delightful feast of shrimp, the air was filled with excitement for the fair and the entertainment lineup.
Announcing the Fair Queen Candidates and Entertainment Lineup
One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of the 12 Fair Queen Candidates, each sponsored by local businesses that play an essential role in supporting the community. These young women are competing for the prestigious title of Austin County Fair Queen, and the winner will be announced on Saturday, October 7.
The 2023 Fair Queen Candidates
- Olivia Bagnall-Bolten – sponsored by Bolten’s Dozier Service
- Dominique Rae Castillo – sponsored by Steel Rain Construction
- Jessica DeBerry – sponsored by Branded H Roofing
- Lyla Durrett – sponsored by Brazos FFA
- Ryleigh Gilfoil – sponsored by American Ag
- Peyton Codi Havemann – sponsored by Cody Havemann Farrier Service/H5 Farm Service
- Tylin Jackson – sponsored by First National Bank of Bellville
- Keanah Lizotte – sponsored by Lizotte Yardworks
- Sophie Martinez – sponsored by the Bellville VFW
- Emmy McDaniel – sponsored by Fitness Athletic Center
- Jaylen Tesch – sponsored by Austin County 4-H
- Samantha Weems – sponsored by Bluebonnet Abstract and Tile
The night continued with the much-anticipated announcement of the fair’s entertainment lineup. Attendees were thrilled to learn about the artists who would be gracing the stage during the fair.
Entertainment Lineup for Austin County Fair 2023
On Saturday, October 7,
After the announcement of the Fair Queen, the entertainment festivities will commence with performances by Kevin Robinson at 8 pm, followed by the dynamic duo, Dos Borrachos, featuring Kevin Fowler and Roger Creager, at 10 pm. Dos Borrachos promises a unique collaboration and duets album, adding to the excitement of the night.
The remaining fair entertainment schedule includes:
October 12:
Kin Faux (a high-energy Texas/Red Dirt country group from San Antonio, Texas) at 8 pm.
Coffee Anderson (an acclaimed country artist with a soulful tenor and a passion for inspiring hope) at 10 pm.
October 13:
Wade Bowen (a native Texan and New Braunfels resident, known for his blend of country realism and rock showmanship) at 8 pm.
The Randy Rogers Band (a compelling country group bonded by a shared passion for making great music) at 10 pm.
October 14:
Mike Ryan (a talented country singer, songwriter, and guitarist from San Antonio, Texas) at 9 pm.
Easton Corbin (a country music star with a memorable baritone and a blend of traditional and modern country sounds) at 11 pm.
The video of the queen introductions and the fair lineup announcement is below: