Get Ready for the Sweetest Time of the Year: The East Texas Yamboree Returns!
The sweetest time of the year is fast approaching as Gilmer, Texas, prepares to host the 88th Annual East Texas Yamboree, running from Wednesday, October 15th to Saturday, October 18th. This four-day festival, one of the oldest and most celebrated in Texas, is a tribute to the humble sweet potato (or “yam,” as it’s often called in the South) and a massive celebration of East Texas culture, drawing crowds of around 100,000 visitors to Upshur County.
What started in 1935 as a way to celebrate the sweet potato as a former cash crop has blossomed into a cherished tradition packed with events for the entire family. The Yamboree blends agricultural heritage, dazzling pageantry, thrilling entertainment, and a lively carnival atmosphere that takes over the courthouse square.
The festivities officially kick off on Wednesday with the traditional Queen’s Coronation at the Gilmer Civic Center, a highlight of the year where a new Yamboree Queen is crowned following the annual Queen’s Race competition. The atmosphere builds as the carnival opens, offering half-price rides for “Youth Night.”
Thursday and Friday keep the energy high with the opening of exhibits, including the meticulous Quilt Show and the Agricultural Exhibits, showcasing the region’s talent. A major component of the Yamboree is its commitment to local youth, featured prominently in the extensive Livestock and Ag Mechanics Shows, where FFA and 4-H students display their projects. Friday brings the exciting School/Youth Parade and marching contest, featuring colorful floats and bands from across East Texas.
Saturday is the grand finale. The downtown square comes alive for the spectacular Queen’s Parade, featuring the newly crowned Queen, her court, and the winning school floats. Other Saturday highlights include the Antique/Classic Car Show, the Yamboree Barbecue, and the highly anticipated Fiddler’s Contest on the courthouse square Bandstand, showcasing local musical talent. The entire festival wraps up Saturday evening with the famous Barn Dance at the Yamboree Event Center, often featuring a headline country music artist like this year’s Casey Donahew, providing a perfect country send-off to the event.
While the “yam” may no longer be the dominant cash crop it once was, the spirit and tradition of the Yamboree remain strong. It is a fantastic opportunity to experience genuine East Texas hospitality, enjoy a variety of free entertainment, and support local students through the livestock sales and scholarships provided by the Yamboree Association. Don’t miss your chance to join the fun—make plans now to be in Gilmer for the 88th East Texas Yamboree!