Sweetwater is a town situated in the picturesque and historic Panhandle Plains in the Nolan County of Texas. Boasting of an average of 327 days of beautiful sunshine, the town is the perfect destination for outdoor travel seekers. With plenty of lakes perfect for boating and fishing, camping sites, golf courses, and more, you'll never run out of things to do while you're in the city.

If Sweetwater is a destination you are considering, make sure you choose Stay Express Inn & Suites as your preferred accommodation and you'll never regret your decision. With 120 guest rooms, Stay Express Inn & Suites is the largest of its kind in the city. Each room is equipped with the usual features you would expect to make your stay a comfortable one. Also known as a pet friendly inn, your furry friend will be sure to make the most of his stay while you explore the town. Here are some of the destinations and events that will make your trip worthwhile:

Rattlesnake Roundup Sweetwater, Texas

Not exactly a destination, the Rattlesnake Roundup is an annual event common not only in Sweetwater but in other parts of the country. Also called as Rattlesnake Rodeos, the event primarily highlights captured wild rattlesnakes. The largest roundup, however, is held in Sweetwater, Texas; wherein these rattlesnakes are sold, displayed, and may also be killed for food or as an animal product. But apart from just the display of these wild creatures, the event also features other trade stalls that often take part in fairs. Having started in 1958, the event brings in a number of visitors every year and as such, is named as one of the top attractions in the city.

The very nature of the event makes it a highly controversial issue, especially among animal welfare groups. But because the event is a huge one, it draws in plenty of people to enjoy in this local Sweetwater festivity. Sprawling over several acres and occupying plenty of buildings, the Rattlesnake Roundup is never a boring celebration. True enough, the rattlesnakes are the ones that are considered as the star of the event. However, the number of visitors that take part in the event make it a highly interesting one.

Usually held in the Nolan County Coliseum, the fun doesn't just end in the corners of the facility. As a matter of fact, outside the Coliseum is where most of the fun takes place. Buildings upon buildings are filled with different vendors and booths, each selling a delicacy of their own and offering free samples to guests. You might even get to try Fried Rattlesnake in one of the booths.

When to Visit Sweetwater for the Rattlesnake Roundup

Sponsored by the Sweetwater Jaycees, the Sweetwater Rattlesnake Roundup is a 3-day event usually held on the second weekend of March. Its event hours differ according to the events planned by the organizer. If you would like to see the live snakes inside the Nolan County Coliseum, admission costs $6 for every adult. The money raised during the event is then collected and donated to charity supported by the organizers.

Activities during the Rattlesnake Roundup

While the main highlight of the event remains to be the captured rattlesnakes, there are plenty of other activities that await those who may have a faint heart. For one thing, the event serves as host to the largest Barbecue Cook-off in the whole of Texas. Other than that, here are some of the activities that you may take part in during the event:

   
• Round-Up Parade
   
• Chili and Brisket Cook-off
   
• Miss Snake Charmer Pageant
   
• Sweetwater Gun, Knife and Coin Show
   
• Rattlesnake Sighting Bus Tour
   
• Guided Snake Hunt
   
• Rattlesnake Weigh-in
   
• Rattlesnake Handling Demonstrations
 

The participants in the event may receive cash prizes and trophies for their efforts in upkeeping this Sweetwater tradition.

Location from Stay Express Inn & Suites

Situated just 3.6 miles or an 8-minute drive from the Nolan County Colisuem, the location of Stay Express Inn & Suites makes it a perfect choice if you plan to visit the town during this popular event. Whether or not you're a snake afficionado, there's plenty of reason to visit Sweetwater during this 3-day event. Have your thrill during the Sweetwater Rattlesnake Roundup and you'll never go wrong with your decision!