Big Tex. Fried foods. And a lineup of Texas music artists. All this can only mean one thing: The State Fair of Texas returns to Fair Park on Friday, Sept. 26.
The first state fair was proposed in 1886, and because local leaders couldn’t decide on a location, two fairs were held. The Dallas State Fair took place on 80 acres in Fair Park, and the Texas State Fair & Exposition opened just north of town near North Dallas High School. The two sides eventually came together in 1887 and by 1916, the annual event welcomed one million people for the first time.
With three days until the fair kicks off, we’re giving you the rundown of what’s happening this year at Fair Park. So, come along for the ride.
Hours, tickets, parking
- The fair runs 24 days from Friday, Sept. 26 -Sunday, Oct. 19 and the gates will open at 9 a.m.
- Tickets + parking passes are available online. Admission costs $5-$25.
- Parking is available on-site — it’s $30 at official fair lots. Check out directions to get to the gates.
- Pro tip: If you arrive after 5 p.m., all guests will pay the price of a child’s ticket.
The concerts
Some big names are headlining this year’s concert series on the Chevrolet Main Stage, Bud Light Stage, and Bank of Texas Stage. More than 100 performers will take the stages this year. BTW: A fair ticket will give you free admission to all concerts.
The lineup:
- Wade Brown | Fri., Sept. 26 | 7:45 p.m. | Chevrolet Main Stage
- Walker Lukens | Sat., Oct. 4 | 7:30 p.m. | Bud Light Stage
- Billy Law | Sat., Oct. 11 | 6 p.m. + 8 p.m. | Bank of Texas Stage
Check out the full list of performers.
The fried fair fare
As always, expect a lot of fried food along the midway, as well as the winners of this year’s Big Tex Choice Awards. Since 2005, the Big Tex Choice Awards has welcomed new chefs into the exclusive club of fried food creations. This year, don’t forget to stop by and try new additions like the Meat Lovers Crunchwrap Calzone, Rousso’s Bacon Jam Cannoli, and What on Earth is This? No really, that’s the name.
So many things to see at the State Fair of Texas.
Photo courtesy of Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas
The attractions
The fair is known for its exhibits spanning all kinds of interests. Here are a few that we’re excited about:
Rodeo | Fair Park Coliseum | From high-energy bull riding to wild cow milking, you won’t want to miss the action.
In the Barns | Livestock Barns| Enjoy rich agricultural heritage every day through activities and demonstrations like Farm and Fork University and the Livestock Birthing Barn.
World of Magic | This captivating magic show showcases a display of neon lighting, lasers, and even a floating robot.
Dino Time with Professor T. Rex | Join Professor T. Rex and his dino-wrangler as they bring their favorite dinosaurs through his time machine to meet fairgoers.
USA Breakdancers | Combining traditional high-energy breakdancing with their signature comedic stylings, you’ll witness an unforgettable fusion of slick moves and laugh-out-loud moments.
For a full roundup of daily events, check out this year’s attractions.
Make a game plan
Of course, no fair is complete without rides + games, and the State Fair of Texas will have plenty of those, too. This daily calendar of events will also help you map out your visit. Whatever you do, give yourself plenty of time to explore, bring sunscreen + wear your stretchy pants and comfy shoes.
