Introduction
The State Fair of Texas is back and better than ever! With countless attractions, delicious food, and exciting entertainment, there's something for everyone to enjoy. To help you make the most of your visit, we've compiled a list of the must-see attractions, must-eat foods, must-see event and tips for planning your trip.
Must-See Attractions
World of Birds Show at the State Fair of Texas
- World of Birds Show: After a six-year hiatus, the World of Birds Show is back with a spectacular display of flying birds.
Kinsey African American Art & History Collection at the State Fair of Texas
- Kinsey African American Art & History Collection: This groundbreaking exhibit showcases over 150 art and historical pieces collected over five decades.
Texas Discovery Garden's Butterfly House at the State Fair of Texas
- Texas Discovery Garden’s Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House: Enjoy a daily butterfly release and learn about these beautiful creatures.
Must-Eat Foods
Fletcher's Corny Dog at the State Fair of Texas
- Fletcher's Corny Dog: A classic fair food that never disappoints.
Ruth's Stuffed Fried Taco Cone at the State Fair of Texas
- Ruth's Stuffed Fried Taco Cone: This year's winner for Best Taste-Savory, it's a must-try.
Texas Fried Frito Pie at the State Fair of Texas
- Texas Fried Frito Pie: A classic fair food that's always a crowd-pleaser.
Fla'Mango Tango at the State Fair of Texas
- Fla'Mango Tango: A creative and delicious fried mango pastry with a citrus glaze and whipped cream.
Fried Oreos at the State Fair of Texas
- Fried Oreos: A classic fair food that's always a sweet treat.
While the classic fair foods like Fletcher's Corny Dogs, Ruth's Stuffed Fried Taco Cones, and Texas Fried Frito Pies are always crowd favorites, this year's fair also features some winning creations.
Winner "Best Taste - Savory"
DOMINICAN FRITURA DOG
by Justin Martinez
- Dominican Fritura Dog by Justin Martinez: This savory dish combines the best of Dominican and classic fair food with fritura cheese, Dominican salami, and a double-deep fried corn dog batter. It's topped with garlic plantain chips, a secret Dominican sauce, and cilantro for an explosion of flavor.
Winner "Best Taste - Sweet"
ROUSSO’S COTTON CANDY BACON ON A STICK
by Isaac Rousso
- Rousso’s Cotton Candy Bacon on a Stick by Isaac Rousso: This unique treat combines the sweetness of cotton candy with the savory goodness of bacon. The bacon is cooked to perfection and coated in a cotton candy glaze, then torched for a caramelized finish.
Don't miss these award-winning dishes and experience the latest culinary innovations at the State Fair of Texas!
Must-See Event
The State Fair of Texas is not only about food and fun, but also about thrilling rodeo events! This year, the fair is hosting a series of rodeos at the historic Fair Park Coliseum. From professional bull riding to exciting ranch rodeo competitions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Here's a quick overview of the rodeo events at the State Fair of Texas:
- State Fair of Texas Presents Pro Rodeo Rough Stock Kickoff: Friday, October 11 - Saturday, October 12
- Cowboys of Color Rodeo: Sunday, October 13
- United Professional Rodeo Association (UPRA) World Finals: October 17 - October 20
All rodeo events are included with your admission to the fair. Don't miss this exciting opportunity to witness the thrill of rodeo action!
Planning Your Visit
- Buy tickets in advance: Save time and avoid lines by purchasing your tickets online before you arrive.
- Use the fair's mobile app: The app provides real-time updates on ride wait times, show schedules, and more.
- Arrive early: Beat the crowds and enjoy the fair at a more leisurely pace.
- Pack light: Bring essentials like a water bottle, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
- Consider parking options: Fair Park parking lots can fill up quickly, so plan ahead for parking or use public transportation.
Discounts: The State Fair of Texas wants everyone to experience the fun, no matter your budget. Here's a breakdown of the many ways you can save:
Feed the Need Wednesdays: Give back to the community and save! Bring five canned food items on Wednesdays to receive admission for just $5. All donations go to the North Texas Food Bank. (Donation program ends at 5 PM on Wednesdays.)
Senior Day Thursdays: Every Thursday, seniors 60 and over can enjoy the fair for only $5.
Opening Day Peanut Butter Drive: Donate two jars of peanut butter to the North Texas Food Bank on opening day and get $10 admission at the gate (available only at the gate).
Value Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays offer a special online discount code for Big Tex Insiders. Sign up to be an Insider and save $10 on admission
Kids at Night: After 5 PM every day, everyone pays the child admission price! Enjoy discounted general admission for the whole family.
Kroger Discount: Purchase Premium One-Day admission tickets at your local Kroger for $3 off (valid from September 1st to the last day of the Fair).
McDonald's Coupon: Participating McDonald's locations offer $5 off coupons in their tray liners and meal bags.
Military & First Responder Discounts: Active/retired military, veterans, first responders, and their families (with valid ID) save $5 on admission every day.
4-Coupon Midway Rides on Tuesdays: Thrill-seekers can save on Tuesdays with most Midway rides available for 4 coupons (Kiddie rides are 3 coupons). Excludes Thrillway and Texas Star Ferris Wheel.
Thrifty Thursdays Discount Fair Food: Indulge your taste buds every Thursday (October 3, 10, and 17)! From classic corny dogs to sweet cotton candy and funnel cakes, there's something for everyone. Participating food vendors will also offer discounted signature dishes, so be sure to explore the fairgrounds and find your new favorite treat.
For Out-of-Town Visitors
- Book your hotel early: Popular hotels near Fair Park fill up quickly during the fair.
- Take advantage of shuttle services: Many hotels offer shuttle services to and from the fairgrounds.
- Explore Dallas: Consider extending your trip to explore the city and its many attractions.
The State Fair of Texas is a must-visit event for anyone looking for fun, food, and entertainment. By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit and create lasting memories.
