Up the Chisholm Trail Event and Chuckwagon Cook-off
Georgetown, Texas

When: late September

Where: The cattle drive begins at San Gabriel Park and continues to Main Street in Georgetown.

Perched atop the copper dome of the Williamson County courthouse, a statue of Themis, goddess of justice, presides over a crowd who find themselves in the presence of the past as cowboy re-enactors, conjuring up the spirit of the trail drivers who tread the Chisholm Trail in the 1800's, wrangle a herd of longhorns down Main Street during a day-long tribute to this unique Lone Star legacy.

Launched in 2006, the event kicks off with a chuckwagon cook-off. At the clang of the dinner triangle, sidle up to the chow line in San Gabriel Park for some authentic cowboy culinary concoctions created over a wood fire by brave buckaroos in period costume who battled to win first place.

From Gene Autry to the Sons of the Pioneers, cowboy songs performed by a variety of acts provide a soundtrack as attendees listen to talks by western authors, witness a flag presentation by the Williamson County Sheriff's Posse and enjoy a roundup of rope tricks from a cowboy lariat artist. Before heading home, souvenir seekers can find a western-themed trinket to remember the day by among the many vendor booths.

Children's Activities: Lone Star little ones can come face to face with a symbol of Texas pride as they pet the longhorns who make the trek downtown, and every child's cowboy fantasy comes true when they saddle up for a pony ride.

For more information:

• visit www.wchm-tx.org

Photo courtesy Georgetown CVB