By George Slaughter
One might say that the annual Katy Rice Harvest Festival, which began Saturday and concludes today, has something for everyone.
Attendees had plenty of attractions from which to choose. These included arts and crafts for sale, children’s attractions and rides, live performances on two stages, food, and well-placed beverage stations—no small issue Saturday, given the warm temperatures.
Booths were set up by local businesses, professional networking and social organizations, and churches, among other groups.
Festival attendees observed Saturday morning seemed to be enjoying themselves. Some attendees brought their pets, which organizers said are welcome provided that the pets are kept on a leash or are carried by their owners.
Ponies were a children’s attraction at the Katy Rice Harvest Festival (George Slaughter photo)
A view of 2nd Street, facing east, at the Katy Rice Heritage Festival (George Slaughter photo)
According to the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce, the festival draws between 45-50,000 visitors each year. Many attendees come from across Texas, and from other states.
The first such celebration, called a “Sellabration,” was held in 1978. Its purpose was to honor the local rice farmers and their contributions to the local economy.
The festival became known as the Rice Harvest Festival when it was held the second weekend of October, 1981. The festival takes place in downtown Katy, between 1st Street and 4th Street and Avenue A and Avenue D.
Tickets are $10. Children age 10 and under are admitted free. The festival concludes tomorrow. For more information, visit the web site.