Tarkington Round-Up returns for 21st Annual Celebration on Oct. 5

At the Tarkington Roundup in 2023, Dr. Elna Davis, superintendent of Tarkington ISD, enjoyed sinking her husband in the dunking tank. (Photo courtesy of Tarkington ISD)

The Tarkington Community invites everyone to join in celebrating the 21st Annual Tarkington Round-Up on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in front of Tarkington Middle School on FM 163 in Liberty County. The family-friendly event begins at 10 a.m. and will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including live performances, contests, and plenty of opportunities to support local students through fundraising.

This year’s Round-Up is sponsored by the Tarkington Student Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides funding for all graduating Tarkington students pursuing post-secondary education.

The Round-Up kicks off at 10 a.m. with the “Tarkington Showcase of Talent,” a lively display of local talent ranging from the Tarkington Elementary School Choir and Middle School Band to the High School Thundering Horns and Jazz Bands. This event is open to everyone in the community, and anyone with a unique talent is encouraged to take the stage, whether they’re singers, dancers, musicians, gymnasts, or church choirs wanting to spread the gospel through music. To participate, contact Mollie Lambert at 713-446-3442 to reserve a performance slot. With spots filling up quickly, it’s best to sign up soon!

Following the talent showcase, participants can warm up their vocal cords for the always-popular Karaoke Competition, hosted by karaoke masters Pete and Stephanie Vandver, along with Ethan Vandver. Sing your favorite tunes for just $5 per song and compete for trophies awarded to the top performers, based on audience votes, which will be sold for $1 each.

The Round-Up also features its third annual Halloween Costume Contest, inviting participants of all ages to show off their creativity. Trophies will be awarded for Winner and Runner-Up in the following categories: Early Childhood (ages 0-5), Elementary School, Middle School, and High School, as well as a special trophy for the “Most Entertaining” adult costume. The entry fee is $5 per participant, and all proceeds benefit the Tarkington Student Foundation’s scholarship fund. It’s time to get those costumes ready and let your imagination run wild!

Project Graduation will be on-site, serving delicious food and drinks while also hosting a variety of carnival games for the family to enjoy. Test your aim at the dunking booth, try your luck at prize-winning booths, and enjoy a variety of fun-filled activities that are sure to keep the whole family entertained throughout the day.

The Tarkington Community Library will host a Scholastic Book Fair, offering great deals on books and featuring a silent auction. The Library is also organizing a Craft Vendor Fair, with booths available for $30 each. Interested vendors can secure their spot by contacting the Library at info@tarkingtonlib.org or calling 281-592-5136 during business hours.

The Cleveland Rotary Club will be selling raffle tickets throughout the event, giving attendees a chance to win a four-wheeler and other fantastic prizes. As a non-profit organization, the Rotary Club plays an essential role in providing scholarships to local students, making this an excellent opportunity for the community to show their support.

During the Round-Up, Tarkington ISD will honor the 2024 recipients of the Commitment to Education Community Award and the TISD Employee Award, recognizing their dedication to the students and community. Join us as we applaud these individuals for their contributions and celebrate the impact they have made.

For sports enthusiasts, the Tarkington Middle School will be hosting a volleyball tournament, showcasing the next generation of athletes as they compete in both the Middle School and High School gyms. Come cheer on these young talents as they display their hard work and sportsmanship!

Tarkington Middle School is located seven miles south of Cleveland, Texas. Take SH 321/105 south from Cleveland for five miles, then go a half-mile past the S.H. 105 split with SH 321. Turn left onto FM 163, and the school will be located two miles down the road on the left.

For more information or to participate in the day’s events, contact:

Follow the Tarkington Student Foundation on Facebook for the latest updates and to share this event with your friends and family.

To become a sponsor for this year’s Round-Up, please contact Charlie Rice at 281-608-9730.

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