Attention, young ladies of Austin County! Prepare yourselves for an exciting opportunity as we invite you to participate in the esteemed Austin County Fair Queen Pageant. This remarkable event offers a chance to showcase your grace, poise, and talent while vying for the titles of Austin County Fair Queen and Ticket Queen. Let us provide you with all the details, requirements, and rewards that await the deserving winners.
Honoring Tradition and Community:
The Austin County Fair Queen Pageant holds a special place in our hearts as it celebrates the rich traditions and close-knit community of Austin County. This prestigious competition not only crowns the Austin County Fair Queen and Ticket Queen but also serves as a platform to raise funds for the Austin County Fair Association. By participating, you have the opportunity to represent our cherished fair at various events and become an ambassador for our community.
Participation Guidelines:
To be a part of this exciting journey, aspiring contestants must meet a few simple guidelines. The pageant is open to all high school girls in Austin County, aged 15 years or older at the start of the current school year. Candidates should either be residents of Austin County or attending school here for a minimum of six months. They must exhibit good conduct, not be married, have children, or be on probation with the State of Texas. While previous Austin County Fair Queens are not eligible to participate, Ticket Queens have the chance to showcase their talents once more based on their ticket sales achievements.
Orientation Meeting:
Mark your calendars for the mandatory Orientation Meeting, where all candidates and their parent(s) or guardian(s) must be present. This meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, July 19th at 6:00 P.M., will take place at the Austin County Fair Expo Center. It’s an important gathering where you’ll receive valuable information about the pageant’s rules, dates, and ticket sales. Should you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Shannon Hanath, the esteemed Chairman, at 832-715-1639.
Academic Eligibility:
Education is of utmost importance, and we believe in recognizing academic achievements. Candidates’ grades will be reviewed in line with the standards set by the University Interscholastic League (UIL). We’ll consider the grades from the first grading period to ensure that participants maintain academic eligibility. It’s essential to pass all classes with a minimum score of 70 or higher. Please note that the Fair Board upholds this rule strictly and does not make exceptions.
Gathering Support:
In this pageant, candidates have the opportunity to represent a cause or organization close to their hearts. Whether it’s a 4-H Club, FFA Chapter, Non-Profit Organization, Business, or an individual supporter, it’s your responsibility to secure your own supporter(s). Each supporter will be assessed a fee of $300, and it’s your aim to collect a total of $300 to participate (you can have one supporter/sponsor for $150 and another for $150. It just has to total $300). Supporter forms must be submitted at the Mandatory Orientation Meeting on July 19, 2023. Additionally, supporters’ names will be acknowledged on your ticket posters, symbolizing their unwavering support.
Consent and Code of Conduct:
Obtaining consent from your parent(s) or guardian(s) is crucial for participation in the pageant. Both you and your parent(s) or guardian(s) must sign the consent form and acknowledge the code of conduct. Failure to secure both signatures will result in disqualification. We want to ensure that all candidates meet the necessary requirements. If you decide to withdraw from the pageant, please inform the Fair office as soon as possible.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Becoming the Austin County Fair Queen or Ticket Queen comes with great responsibilities. As the crowned ambassadors, you’ll be expected to attend and assist with various events, including the 2023 Austin County Fair Livestock Shows, Auctions, and other key functions. During the fair, you’ll proudly wear your sash and crown, representing the fair with elegance and charm. In the event of your absence, kindly notify the Fair Office or Shannon Hanath, so that the runner-up can fulfill the duties. Moreover, attending other pageants and parades is an integral part of your role. Ticket Queens, runners-up, and high sales achievers may be requested to participate in the grand entry during the rodeo and assist with major events. A detailed schedule will be provided to outline your commitments outside the pageant.
It is important to note that during the fair, as representatives of the Austin County Fair, you are expected to abstain from consuming alcohol or smoking. Failure to comply will result in the runner-up assuming the position of Austin County Fair Queen. All winners, runners-up, and anyone wearing a sash representing their participation must exhibit good morals and appropriate behavior. Dressing in a manner that befits the fair’s atmosphere is required, with guidelines that exclude short skirts, short shorts, or midriff-baring shirts. If, for any reason, the Fair Queen is unable to fulfill her duties, the runner-up will be offered the position. The winner of the Fair Queen pageant will not be eligible to participate in future entries or receive the Queen Scholarship.
Social Media Guidelines:
In this digital age, social media plays a significant role. As candidates, it is essential to represent yourselves in an appropriate and positive manner across all social media platforms. We kindly request that you refrain from engaging in inappropriate activities or making negative comments about fellow candidates, organizations, or fair affiliates. Violations of these guidelines will result in disqualification. Winning the Fair Queen pageant also forfeits the right to participate in future pageants and receive the Queen Scholarship.
Ticket Sales:
Get ready to showcase your persuasive skills, as selling tickets is a mandatory part of the pageant. To be eligible for judgment, you must sell a minimum of $4,500 worth of advance gate season tickets. Please note that pre-sales of advance tickets are strictly prohibited. Ticket sales can only commence after receiving them at the Orientation Meeting. Prior approval of pictures used for ticket posters is necessary, ensuring they align with the fair’s standards. Your creativity and marketing savvy will shine as you promote the event to support your candidacy.
Parade Participation:
Mark this date on your calendar with pride! On Thursday, October 12, 2023, all candidates are expected to participate in the grand parade. You’ll have the honor of riding on the Queen’s and candidates’ float, showcasing the spirit of camaraderie and celebration. Attire should be appropriate, with options including dresses, jeans, or suitable shirts. Remember, no formal dresses or midriff shirts are permitted. Wear your Supporter(s) banner with pride, and if desired, carry flowers provided by supporters, family, or friends. While the fair does not provide bouquets, you may bring your own to enhance the float’s beauty. The parade’s theme this year is “Denim Jeans & Country Dreams,” so let your enthusiasm and country charm shine through!
Stay Informed, Stay Committed:
We understand the importance of keeping you informed and prepared for this remarkable journey. A full schedule of meetings, events, and deadlines will be provided to ensure you’re well equipped for each stage of the pageant. In the event of unavoidable absences, please notify Shannon Hanath, the Chairman, and the Fair Office. Each absence will be considered and evaluated for excusability. Candidates are allowed a maximum of two (2) excused absences to maintain eligibility. It is crucial to adhere to all deadlines as they will be strictly enforced. Failure to meet a deadline or unexcused absences may result in disqualification from the pageant.
Shrimp Boil and Kick-Off:
Before the pageant commences, we have a special pre-pageant commitment—the Austin County Fair Shrimp Boil and Kick-Off. Candidates will proudly wear their Supporter(s) sashes, contribute to the event’s success, and be introduced to the attendees. The attire for this occasion should embrace a Western theme, allowing you to showcase your style with jeans, suitable tops, Western dresses, boots, and hats. Press photographers will be present, capturing moments of joy and camaraderie.
Handwritten Thank You Notes:
In the spirit of genuine appreciation, candidates will have the opportunity to write handwritten thank you notes during the fair week. On a designated day, either Thursday or Friday, take time to express gratitude to those who have supported you along this journey. Submit your heartfelt notes to Shannon Hanath, ensuring they are accompanied by pre-stamped envelopes. She will assist in mailing these tokens of gratitude to the recipients.
New Addition:
We’re thrilled to introduce an exciting new element this year! Each candidate will have the opportunity to set up a small, personalized table to showcase their individuality. Let your creative spirit soar as you decorate your table with pictures that reflect your journey and aspirations. Additionally, these tables will serve as gift tables. Detailed discussions will take place at the Orientation Meeting, allowing you to exchange ideas and create something truly special.
In conclusion, dear young ladies, the Austin County Fair Queen Pageant awaits your arrival. Visit the official Austin County Fair website at https://austincountyfair.com/queens-contest to download entry forms and discover all the details you need to embark on this unforgettable journey of grace, elegance, and scholarship opportunities. It’s an extraordinary opportunity to grow, shine, and create lasting memories. As you step into the spotlight, may your dreams unfold and your country spirit shine through. We encourage you to embrace this journey with grace, determination, and a heart full of country dreams. Let the countdown begin!
