By Ashley Hughes.
After 53 years of being held in San Marcos, the 54th Annual Hays County Livestock Show will kickoff for the first time in Dripping Springs. The event helps stress the importance of the agriculture community and gives support to the 4-H Club and FFA members.
This longstanding tradition benefits Hays County youth, according to Roger Mikeska, livestock show board member.
“This impacts a lot of kids in Dripping Springs,” he said. “We’re not just out here raising animals, we’re raising kids. It teaches them responsibility, compassion and hard work with results.”
Terry Polk, the Cattle Division Superintendent, has participated in the Hays County Livestock shows for the past 15 years. Over time, he noticed an increase in both the quality and competitiveness of the steer show.
“I think it’s a positive move,” Polk said. “The facility is new with new amenities and more room as far as the show arena.”
The event officially begins with the Kick-off Gala at 7 p.m. Jan. 18 to honor Hays County Livestock supporters. The show closes with a live auction at 11 a.m. Jan. 25.
Although the venue is different, organizers say the schedule of events will be similar to previous years.
“Bring the kids,” Mikeska says. “It’s a really interactive deal.”
HAYS COUNTY LIVESTOCK SHOW EVENT SCHEDULE:
Presentation of Queen, Scholarship Awards Jan. 11 at 8 a.m.
Horse Show Jan. 11
Kick-off Gala Jan. 18 at 7 p.m.
Breeding and Market Goat Show Jan. 23 at 9 a.m.
Breeding and Market Rabbit Show Jan. 23 at 1 p.m.
Sheep and Lamb Show Jan. 23 at 6 p.m.
Breeding and Market Swine Show Jan. 24 at 9 a.m.
Poultry Show Jan. 24 at 9 a.m.
Home Skills and Ag Mechanics Show Jan. 24 at 2 p.m.
Breeding Cattle and Market Steer Show Jan. 24 at 4 p.m.
Live Auction Jan. 25 at 11 a.m.
