Turtle‑race takeover: A Quirky Fourth in the Texas Panhandle

All over the Texas Panhandle, towns and cities are celebrating the Fourth of July in style. Massive celebrations are held, filling the day and night with parades, live music, food, and fireworks.

One spot in the Texas Panhandle does something different. It's the only spot you can go to on the Fourth of July to watch the turtles run.

The Lake Meredith Aquatic & Wildlife Museum is hosting its 4th annual Fourth of July celebration in Fritch, Texas. There is a parade, live music, a golf cart and ATV show, a fish fry meal, and a very special race.

Turtle Races To Celebrate America In Fritch, Texas

One of the big highlights of the celebration in Fritch is the turtle races. There are multiple categories with three winners in each category.

They have races for 0 - 5 years old, 6 - 12 years old, 13 - 18 years old, and adults. One of the most interesting aspects of the race is where the turtles come from.

READ MORE: Where To Celebrate The Fourth In The Texas Panhandle

If you're hoping to claim turtle race glory for your own, you will need to go out and find the fastest, most determined turtle you can. Once you find one, scoop it up and hope it brings home the gold.

Turtle Race Rules & Registration Info

The turtle races aren't a free-for-all. There are rules you'll need to follow.

• Only box turtles are allowed.
• Return your turtle to where you found it or let the Lake Meredith Aquatic and Wildlife Museum release it into the wild.
• Don't paint on your turtle. You'll be provided with a sticker.
• Taking a turtle from National Parks (Lake Meredith National Recreation Area) is prohibited. It's unlawful to remove wildlife from National Parks.

You can find out more by checking the event info for the entire celebration. There is a registration fee, and you can register before the races or day of.