The Texas State Fair is a beloved annual tradition that brings together Texan pride, excitement, and an array of mouthwatering fried delicacies. For 24 days each fall, Fair Park in Dallas transforms into a bustling hub of entertainment, attractions, and culinary adventures. The 2023 Texas State Fair runs from September 29 to October 22, offering visitors ample time to indulge in the festivities and sample an extensive menu of creative fried foods.
At the heart of the fair stands Big Tex, the iconic 55-foot tall cowboy who has been welcoming guests since 1952. This towering figure serves as a symbol of Texas hospitality and sets the stage for the grand experience that awaits fairgoers. From carnival rides to livestock shows, the fair offers something for everyone, but it’s the unique fried creations that truly capture the imagination of food enthusiasts.
The State Fair of Texas is renowned for its innovative approach to deep-fried cuisine. Each year, vendors compete to create the most inventive and delicious fried concoctions, pushing the boundaries of what can be battered and dunked in hot oil. Visitors can expect to find everything from classic corn dogs to more adventurous offerings like fried butter, fried ice cream, and even fried Coca-Cola. These culinary creations are not just food; they’re a quintessential part of the State Fair experience.
The Rich History of the Texas State Fair
The Texas State Fair has been a beloved tradition since 1886, showcasing the best of Texan culture, agriculture, and innovation. Held annually in Dallas, it has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the largest state fairs in the United States.
In its early years, the fair focused primarily on agricultural exhibitions and livestock shows. Farmers and ranchers from across Texas would gather to display their prized animals and crops.
Over time, the fair expanded to include carnival rides, musical performances, and unique food offerings. The iconic Fletcher’s Corny Dogs made their debut in 1942, quickly becoming a fair staple.
1952 marked a significant milestone with the introduction of Big Tex, the 55-foot tall cowboy mascot. His booming “Howdy, Folks!” greeting has welcomed visitors for decades.
The fair faced challenges throughout its history, including a temporary closure during World War II. It persevered, adapting to changing times and continuing to draw millions of visitors each year.
In recent years, the State Fair of Texas has embraced culinary innovation. The Big Tex Choice Awards, established in 2005, celebrate creative fried food concoctions that push the boundaries of fair cuisine.
Today, the Texas State Fair remains a cornerstone of Texan culture, blending time-honored traditions with modern attractions. It continues to evolve while preserving its rich heritage.
Exploring Big Tex
Big Tex stands as the iconic symbol of the Texas State Fair. This towering cowboy figure has captivated visitors for decades, becoming an integral part of Texas culture and folklore.
Origin and Significance
Big Tex first appeared at the State Fair of Texas in 1952. Originally a 49-foot-tall Santa Claus statue from Kerens, Texas, he was transformed into a cowboy and given the name “Big Tex.” The figure underwent several changes over the years, growing taller and more sophisticated.
In 2012, a fire destroyed the original Big Tex. The incident shocked fairgoers and Texans alike. A new, improved version debuted in 2013, standing 55 feet tall and weighing 25,000 pounds.
Big Tex greets visitors with his signature “Howdy, folks!” His booming voice can be heard throughout the fairgrounds. The colossal cowboy wears a 95-gallon hat and size 96 boots, embodying the larger-than-life spirit of Texas.
Cultural Impact and Iconography
Big Tex has become a cultural touchstone for Texans and visitors alike. His image appears on merchandise, postcards, and social media posts, serving as a popular backdrop for photos.
The figure represents Texas pride and hospitality. His friendly demeanor and massive size make him an unforgettable part of the fair experience. Big Tex has been featured in films, TV shows, and documentaries about Texas culture.
Annual rituals surround Big Tex. His installation marks the beginning of fair preparations, while his removal signals the end of the festivities. These events often draw crowds and media attention.
Big Tex’s cultural significance extends beyond the fairgrounds. He symbolizes Texas’s unique blend of rural heritage and modern ambition, resonating with people from all walks of life.
Delving into Fried Delights
The Texas State Fair is renowned for its mouthwatering array of fried foods. From classic favorites to innovative creations, the fair offers a culinary adventure for every palate.
Traditional Favorites
Corn dogs reign supreme as a staple of the Texas State Fair. These golden-brown treats feature juicy hot dogs encased in crispy cornmeal batter.
Another beloved classic is funnel cake. This sweet confection consists of fried dough topped with powdered sugar, often accompanied by fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.
Fried pickles have also become a fair staple. Tangy pickle slices are coated in seasoned batter and deep-fried to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Innovative Creations
The fair constantly pushes culinary boundaries with unique fried concoctions. Recent years have seen the introduction of fried butter, a decadent treat that combines sweet and savory flavors.
Fried ice cream has gained popularity, featuring scoops of ice cream coated in crispy batter and quickly fried. This creates a contrast between the warm, crunchy exterior and the cold, creamy interior.
Fried Matcha Ice Cream emerged as a new offering in 2024. This fusion dish combines the earthy flavors of matcha with the chewy texture of mochi and the crispiness of fried batter.
Tasting the Classics
Fletcher’s Corny Dogs, a Texas State Fair institution since 1942, remains a must-try item. These hand-dipped corn dogs are made fresh daily using a closely guarded family recipe.
Fried Oreos have become a modern classic. These cookies are dipped in batter, deep-fried, and dusted with powdered sugar, creating a warm, gooey center.
Funnel cake fries offer a twist on the traditional funnel cake. These portable treats are easier to eat while exploring the fair grounds, yet still deliver the same sweet, crispy satisfaction.
Navigating the Fairgrounds
The Texas State Fair spans 277 acres of Fair Park, offering a vast array of attractions and activities. Efficient navigation is key to maximizing your fair experience and enjoying all the sights, sounds, and flavors.
Map and Key Locations
The fairgrounds map is an essential tool for visitors. Key locations include the main entrance, Big Tex Circle, and the Midway. Food courts are scattered throughout, with popular areas near the Cotton Bowl and Coliseum. Major exhibit buildings house agricultural displays, arts and crafts, and commercial booths.
The Automobile Building and Centennial Building host many indoor exhibits. The Children’s Aquarium and African American Museum are located on the southern edge. Live music venues like the Chevrolet Main Stage and Band Shell offer entertainment options.
Restrooms and first aid stations are marked on the map. Information kiosks provide guidance and free maps to visitors.
Transportation and Parking
DART rail service offers convenient access to Fair Park, with two dedicated stations. The Green Line stops directly at the fairgrounds entrance. Rideshare drop-off points are located near Gates 5 and 6.
On-site parking is available, but fills up quickly on weekends. Lots are priced between $15-$20. Shuttle services run from remote parking areas to the fairgrounds. These lots offer cheaper rates and less congestion.
Trams circulate within the fairgrounds, providing free transportation between major areas. Stops are clearly marked on the fairgrounds map.
Accessibility and Accommodations
The State Fair of Texas prioritizes accessibility for all visitors. Wheelchair rentals are available at multiple locations throughout the grounds. Motorized scooters can be rented near the main entrance.
All major buildings and most attractions are wheelchair accessible. Accessible restrooms are located in every area of the fairgrounds. Service animals are welcome, with relief areas provided.
Sign language interpreters are available for select shows and events. Assistive listening devices can be borrowed at the Guest Relations office. Braille and large-print guides are offered at information kiosks.
Event Highlights and Entertainment
The Texas State Fair offers a diverse array of attractions and activities. Visitors can enjoy live music, thrilling competitions, captivating displays, and exciting midway rides and games.
Music and Performances
The fair features multiple stages with daily live music performances. Local and regional artists showcase Texas’s rich musical heritage across genres like country, rock, and blues. The Yuengling Flight Stage hosts popular acts and emerging talent. On Friday nights, the Deep Fried Comedy show brings stand-up comedians to entertain fairgoers.
State Fair Records curates a lineup of top Texas musicians. Performances run throughout the day, giving visitors ample opportunities to catch their favorite acts. The fair’s iconic mascot, Big Tex, greets guests with his booming “Howdy, folks!” Several times daily.
Competitions and Displays
Agricultural competitions are a cornerstone of the fair. Livestock shows feature prize-winning cattle, pigs, sheep, and poultry. Cooking contests highlight Texas culinary traditions, with categories for pies, jams, and barbecue.
The Creative Arts Building houses impressive displays of handcrafted items. Visitors can admire quilts, woodworking, and fine art entries. Horticulture exhibits showcase prize-winning flowers, fruits, and vegetables grown by Texas gardeners.
Midway Games and Rides
The Midway buzzes with excitement, offering classic carnival games and thrilling rides. Test your skills at ring toss or balloon pop games to win stuffed animals and other prizes.
Adrenaline seekers can enjoy a variety of rides, from gentle options for young children to heart-pounding experiences for thrill-seekers. The Texas Star Ferris wheel provides panoramic views of the fairgrounds and Dallas skyline.
New attractions are added each year to keep the Midway fresh and exciting. Ride wristbands offer unlimited access to most attractions, making them a popular choice for families and ride enthusiasts.
Texas State Fair for Foodies
The Texas State Fair offers a culinary paradise for food enthusiasts. Visitors can explore diverse flavors, watch expert chefs in action, and discover unique food and drink pairings.
Culinary Tours
Guided food tours take fairgoers on a gastronomic journey through the fairgrounds. These tours highlight award-winning dishes and hidden gems.
Experienced guides share insider tips on must-try foods and lesser-known stalls. Participants sample a variety of fair specialties, from classic corn dogs to innovative fried creations.
Tours often include stops at Big Tex Choice Awards winners, showcasing the fair’s most creative culinary offerings. Some tours focus on specific themes like Texas barbecue or international flavors.
Cooking Demonstrations
Live cooking shows feature local chefs and celebrity cooks preparing signature dishes. Demonstrations take place throughout the day at dedicated culinary stages around the fairgrounds.
Attendees learn techniques for recreating fair favorites at home. Chefs share tips on working with unique ingredients and mastering deep-frying methods.
Interactive sessions allow audience members to participate in cooking challenges. Some demonstrations focus on healthy twists on traditional fair foods or using locally-sourced Texas ingredients.
Food and Drink Pairings
The fair offers curated food and beverage pairings to enhance the dining experience. Local craft breweries and wineries collaborate with food vendors to create perfect matches.
Tasting events showcase how different drinks complement fair foods. Examples include pairing fried Oreos with chocolate stout or matching smoked brisket with Texas red wine.
Specialty cocktails designed to complement specific dishes are available at select locations. Some pairings focus on non-alcoholic options, like artisanal sodas or flavored lemonades.
Planning Your Visit
Preparing for your Texas State Fair adventure requires some strategic thinking. Smart ticketing choices, seasonal considerations, and careful scheduling will ensure you make the most of your fair experience.
Ticketing and Passes
The Texas State Fair offers various ticketing options to suit different needs. General admission tickets grant access to most attractions, while season passes provide unlimited entry throughout the fair’s duration. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance. Special discount days are available for seniors, children, and military personnel. Some rides and shows may require separate tickets or wristbands.
For groups of 20 or more, discounted rates are often available. Check the official fair website for current pricing and promotions. Parking passes can also be purchased ahead of time to secure a spot close to the fairgrounds.
Seasonal Tips
Weather in Texas can be unpredictable during fair season. Check the forecast and dress accordingly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the expansive fairgrounds. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sunny days.
Weekdays typically see smaller crowds, making them ideal for a more relaxed visit. Weekends offer a livelier atmosphere but expect longer wait times for popular attractions. Early mornings and late evenings tend to be less crowded.
Stay hydrated, especially on warm days. Water fountains are available throughout the grounds, and bringing a refillable water bottle is recommended.
Schedule Planning
The Texas State Fair hosts a wide array of events and performances. Review the daily schedule on the fair’s website or mobile app to plan your visit around must-see attractions. Popular events like livestock shows, cooking demonstrations, and musical performances often have set times.
Allocate time for iconic fair experiences such as greeting Big Tex and sampling award-winning food creations. Plan meal times strategically to avoid peak dining hours at food stands.
Consider creating a rough itinerary, but remain flexible to accommodate unexpected discoveries or crowd fluctuations. Some exhibits may have timed entry, so factor this into your planning.
Merchandise and Souvenirs
The Texas State Fair offers an array of official merchandise and local artisanal goods for visitors to take home as mementos. From Big Tex-themed items to unique handcrafted products, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Official Merchandise
The State Fair of Texas Store provides a wide selection of branded souvenirs. Popular items include Big Tex apparel, such as t-shirts, hats, and youth clothing. Fans can purchase plush toys of Little Big Tex, perfect for young fairgoers or collectors.
Home decor enthusiasts can find Big Tex clocks, super-sized mugs, and decorative statues to add a touch of fair spirit to their living spaces. For those seeking smaller keepsakes, Big Tex decals are available.
The store often runs sales and promotions, making it easier for visitors to pick up multiple items. Many products feature the iconic Big Tex image or State Fair of Texas branding, serving as lasting reminders of the fair experience.
Local Art and Goods
Beyond official merchandise, the fair showcases a variety of local artisans and their creations. Visitors can browse handmade jewelry, paintings, and sculptures crafted by Texas artists.
Food enthusiasts can purchase locally produced goods like jams, sauces, and spice blends. These products often reflect Texas flavors and culinary traditions.
Textile arts are well-represented, with handwoven blankets, quilts, and clothing items on display and for sale. Many artisans demonstrate their crafts, allowing fairgoers to watch the creative process firsthand.
Leather goods, including belts, wallets, and custom boots, are popular among those seeking authentic Texas-style accessories. These items often feature intricate tooling and designs unique to the Lone Star State.
Fair Safety and Regulations
The State Fair of Texas prioritizes visitor safety through various measures and regulations. A dedicated State Fair Safety Team, comprised of retired police officers, works closely with the Dallas Police Department to maintain a secure environment.
In recent years, the fair has implemented new safety protocols. One notable change is the ban on firearms within the fairgrounds, a decision that has sparked debate among stakeholders.
Security checkpoints are set up at fair entrances to screen visitors. Attendees should be prepared for bag checks and metal detector screenings upon arrival.
The fair’s safety team conducts regular patrols throughout the 277-acre grounds. Their presence helps deter potential incidents and provides quick response to any emergencies.
Fair organizers continuously evaluate and update safety measures. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed about current regulations by checking the official State Fair of Texas website before attending.
Compliance with posted rules and regulations is essential for all fairgoers. This includes following guidelines on prohibited items, ride safety instructions, and any specific COVID-19 protocols that may be in place.
Sustainability Efforts at the Fair
The State Fair of Texas has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. Recycling stations are strategically placed throughout the fairgrounds, encouraging visitors to dispose of waste responsibly.
The fair has also introduced biodegradable food containers and utensils at many concession stands. This move aims to decrease the amount of non-recyclable waste generated during the event.
Energy conservation efforts include the use of LED lighting in displays and attractions. Solar panels have been installed on some buildings to harness renewable energy and offset electricity consumption.
Water-saving measures have been adopted in landscaping and maintenance practices. Drought-resistant plants are featured in garden displays, showcasing sustainable gardening techniques to fairgoers.
The fair partners with local organizations to compost food waste from vendors. This initiative helps divert organic matter from landfills and creates nutrient-rich soil for gardening projects.
Educational exhibits highlight environmental issues and sustainable practices. These displays inform visitors about conservation efforts and inspire them to adopt eco-friendly habits in their daily lives.
Transportation options to the fair have been expanded to include bike racks and improved public transit access. These alternatives help reduce traffic congestion and lower the event’s carbon footprint.
Participation and Volunteering Opportunities
The State Fair of Texas offers various ways for visitors to get involved beyond simply attending. Volunteers play a crucial role in the fair’s success and community impact.
One notable opportunity is joining the Big Tex Golf Classic Committee. This all-volunteer group organizes an annual charity golf tournament in June, raising over $95,000 for the State Fair of Texas Scholarship Program.
The State Fair Cares initiative allows food and beverage concessionaires to donate unused items to local food pantries and shelters after the fair ends. This program has been a tradition since 2015, partnering with more than 80 concessionaires.
Visitors can support Big Tex and the fair’s mission through four main avenues:
- Attending the fair
- Donating to scholarship funds
- Participating in year-round events
- Volunteering for various programs
The fair’s nonprofit status means that proceeds go back into the community, supporting agriculture, education, and community involvement initiatives throughout the year.
Potential volunteers can explore opportunities on the State Fair of Texas website, where they can find information about different committees and programs seeking assistance.
