Chambers County to Unveil Historical Marker for Texas Rice Festival; Court Approves Parade Road Closure

Chambers County Commissioners on Sept. 9 approved a resolution honoring the Texas Rice Festival and authorized a temporary closure of the northbound side of Highway 124 for the festival parade on Oct. 4, and they pledged to unveil a historical marker during this year’s event.

The court read and adopted a resolution recognizing the festival’s origins in 1968–1970, its role in promoting rice farming and local nonprofits, and the volunteer work that has sustained the event. "We are a nonprofit organization for promoting the civic, social, agricultural, and industrial welfare of Southeast Texas," said Melissa Hodges, a representative at large for the Texas Rice Festival, describing the festival’s history and volunteer contributions.

During public comment, Chuck Chandler, marker chairman for the Chambers County Historical Commission, introduced the marker project and turned the floor over to Hodges, who invited commissioners and residents to the unveiling at the festival on Saturday, Oct. 4. The court adopted the resolution by motion and voice vote.

Commissioner Tice presented a proclamation backing the festival and supporting a temporary road closure for the parade, stating the closure is coordinated with local law enforcement and emergency services to minimize disruption and protect attendees. The court moved and approved the proclamation by voice vote.

The marker will be unveiled during the festival on Oct. 4; organizers said a formal invitation with details will be issued closer to the date.