Pioneer Day shows Frio’s colorful history
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Saturday festival in Pearsall includes games, food, fun
History comes to life this weekend as Frio County prepares for a day of smoke, spurs, and community spirit as the Frio Pioneer Jail Museum hosts its 27th Annual Pioneer Day.
The free family-friendly celebration is dedicated to honoring the rugged heritage of South Texas.
Festivities officially kick off with an opening ceremony at 9 a.m., leading into a full day of activities designed to transport visitors back to the frontier era.
At 10 a.m., on the courthouse lawn, the city of Pearsall and Frio County officials will unveil a monument featuring Colonel William B. Travis’ famous “Victory or Death” letter to commemorate the 190th anniversary of the Battle of the Alamo.
The ceremony also recognizes a local 7th grade student who won an essay contest about what the letter means today.
The air around the historic jail will be filled with the aroma of competition, featuring a packed culinary lineup for youths and adults.
Kids entering the barbecue cook-off receive a pork chop to prepare and cook, and there will be a children’s dessert contest.
New for 2026, the museum is inviting youngsters to showcase their spice with the inaugural salsa contest.
Pitmasters battle it out during the annual fajita cook-off; the Murray McKinley Bean Cook-off features fresh pinto beans cooked over an open flame from a hole dug in the ground.
For those looking for an authentic meal, Ben Briscoe’s Chuck Wagon will be on site, serving up traditional fare alongside Cowboy Doug and the Ole’ West Gunfighters, who bring the stories and style of the open range to life.
Beyond the food, the event serves as a vital fundraiser for the preservation of local history.
The Jack Reed Memorial Auction offers attendees a chance to bid on unique items, while the sheriff’s office is introducing a new way to contribute to the museum’s upkeep.
“Every year the sheriff’s office comes up with some kind of scheme to raise money for the Frio Pioneer Jail Museum and this year they have decided to let the public legally throw darts,” event organizers said.
The daylong celebration includes a variety of attractions for all ages, including a pet parade, tours of the historic jail museum, live entertainment, food and arts and crafts vendor booths.
For contest rules, turn-in times, and further information check the Frio Pioneer Jail Museum Facebook page.
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