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8 things to do at the 2024 State Fair of Texas

The Texas city editors hit the highlights at Fair Park, thanks to these reader recommendations.

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Take a stroll through the Midway after dark for a neon wonderland.

Photo by @FTWtoday

The State Fair of Texas kicked off last Friday and the FTWtoday, DALtoday, and ATXtoday teams headed to Fair Park for opening day to eat, ride, and try things chosen by our readers. Here’s our review of everything y’all recommended plus, a few editor’s picks.

ICYMI: The fair runs until Sunday, Oct. 20. Bookmark our guide to the fair + these dos and don’ts.

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We went for a classic corny dogs but there are lots of flavors to try.

Photo by @FTWtoday

Eat

Reader’s rec: Fletcher’s Corny Dogs
Stop by multiple Fletcher’s stands spread throughout the park for a can’t-miss classic. We won’t tell you what condiment to top it with. The editor’s still can’t agree.

Editor’s pick: Milton’s Amish Doughnuts
While not on the list of Big Tex Choice Awards, this new concession item is definitely one to taste on Grand Avenue. We ranked the giant sweet treat — fluffy fried sourdough coated in a warm sugar glaze — a nine out of 10.

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The city editors took to the skies on the Texas Star Ferris Wheel at the State Fair of Texas.

Photo by ATXtoday

Ride

Reader’s rec: Texas Star Ferris Wheel
We cruised 212 ft above the Dallas skyline for a 360-degree view of Fair Park. Bonus: Riding twice around the Ferris Wheel gives you a few minutes to sit down and cool off in the breeze.

Editor’s pick: Dentzel Carousel
The 1914 ride is a staple for those who need slower-paced fun — or for editors who needed a chill moment after they thought they could ride the spinning Techno Power, but really shouldn’t have.

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ATXtoday City Editor Morgan won skeeball and earned a plush rose — that she hoped to give to “Bachelor” alum Matt James, who she supposedly saw at the fair.

Photo by FTWtoday

Play

Reader’s rec: Skeeball
Step right up for this classic carnival game located in the Midway. ATXtoday City Editor Morgan turned out to be quite the skeeball sportsman.

Editor’s pick: Midway Barker
The man who “ain’t got no body” guards the entrance to the Midway and pokes a little fun at fairgoers on their way to the games.

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    Pro tip: Head straight to the Esplanade after the Starlight Parade to claim a seat on the grass for the Illumination Sensation.

    Photo by FTWtoday

    See

    Reader’s rec: Mattress Firm Illumination Sensation
    Don’t miss the nightly show with dancers, lights, pyrotechnics, and popular music all reflected in the Esplanade.

    Editor’s Pick: Pint-sized Parade
    There was nothing pint-sized about the larger-than-life armadillo and giant cow floats in this new parade that takes place four times daily in front of the Hall of State.