What happened to tradition?

Did you grow up in Fort Bend County? If yes, do you remember the day off from school called Fair Day. It was a tradition for students and parents to enjoy a day off from school and head to the county Fair. It was standard in our community.

This year Fort Bend ISD has eliminated the student holiday from this year’s school calendar. Budget cuts and a mandatory 180 day school year may have contributed to the end of the tradition. According to FBISD, staff and students that participate in the parade on Fair Day will still be able to do so. Participation in the parade will be considered a school activity/school business.

For years, Fair Day was a coming together for all the school districts and residents of the county to get together. An early morning parade with school marching bands, drill teams, ROTC members and student athletes came together as one. Politicians, elected officials, public safety members and every law and fire department in the county were represented at this small town event.

It was a tradition that was passed on for generations. There are many parents today that take their own children, who themselves as children attended or participated in the parade. Kids get to line the streets and see floats, antique cars and horses go by.

Many families would enjoy the day by attending the fair at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds. Kids would hit the midway rain or shine. The past two years Hurricanes Rita and Ike played havoc on the fair. But not enough to cancel Fair Day!

Recently I posted the disbelief of no more Fair Day on my facebook status. My thoughts of disappointment was shared by many. Some even shared their Fair Day memories.

While it is not exactly peace in the Middle East or quick fix to our economic worries it was our Fair Day. It will be missed.