When Big Tex says howdy, you know it’s time. The State Fair of Texas is back at Fair Park in Dallas, bringing fried everything, rides, livestock shows, and that unmistakable fall-in-Texas feeling.
The 2026 fair opened on September 25 and runs through October 18. Here’s everything you need to make the most of your visit.
Say Howdy to Big Tex
No trip to the fair is complete without a photo with Big Tex, the giant cowboy who has greeted fairgoers for generations. This year, he’s sporting a fresh look, including new boots decorated with Texas touches like bluebonnets and a longhorn, Levi’s 501 jeans, and a red Cavender’s pearl-snap shirt.
Big Tex welcoming fairgoers to the State Fair of Texas at Fair Park. Photo: Photo: Andreas Praefcke via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0
2026 Big Tex Choice Award Winners
The Big Tex Choice Awards celebrate the fair’s most creative new foods. Here are this year’s winners:
- Best Taste, Savory: Burger Chop Tater Tacos
- Best Taste, Sweet: Fletcher’s Chocolate Corny Dog
- Best Taste, Sipper: Tropical Coco Fresca, a layered pineapple-watermelon agua fresca
- Most Creative: Berry Me In Matcha, a matcha cheesecake on a stick
And of course, you can’t skip a classic Fletcher’s Corny Dog. It’s practically a Texas law.
Good News for Your Wallet
The fair announced lower prices for 2026, including cheaper adult tickets, lower parking costs, and lower ride prices. Kids 12 and under can get in for $10 daily, and there’s $10 admission after 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Check the official State Fair of Texas website for the full list of deals.
What to See and Do
- Ride the Texas Star. The fair’s giant Ferris wheel offers views across Fair Park.
- Visit the livestock barns. Kids love seeing the animals up close.
- Catch a show. The fair has free entertainment throughout the grounds, including new acts this year.
- Explore the exhibit halls. Browse everything from cars to quirky gadgets.
- Find the new attractions. This year includes a “Texas in the Saddle” horse show and new mascots joining Little Big Tex.
The Texas Star Ferris wheel at Fair Park. Photo: Photo: Andreas Praefcke via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0
Tips for a Great Fair Day
- Buy tickets online. You’ll skip the line at the gate.
- Go on a weekday. Crowds are usually lighter than on weekends.
- Wear comfy shoes. Fair Park is big, and you’ll be walking a lot.
- Know the bag policy. Clear bags are recommended, and all guests go through security screening.
- Share your food. Splitting dishes lets you try more of the fun stuff.
- Stay hydrated. October in Dallas can still be warm.
Where to Stay in Dallas
Making a weekend of it? Stay in Dallas and take advantage of everything the city has to offer, from museums to parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the State Fair of Texas 2026?
The 2026 State Fair of Texas runs from September 25 through October 18 at Fair Park in Dallas.
What won the 2026 Big Tex Choice Awards?
Burger Chop Tater Tacos won Best Taste Savory, Fletcher’s Chocolate Corny Dog won Best Taste Sweet, Tropical Coco Fresca won Best Taste Sipper, and Berry Me In Matcha won Most Creative.
How much are kids’ tickets?
For 2026, kids 12 and under can get in for $10 daily. Check the fair’s website for current pricing.
See You at the Fair, Y’all
The State Fair of Texas is one of those traditions that never gets old. Grab your crew, bring your appetite, and go make some memories under the watchful eye of Big Tex.
Keep Exploring Texas
- Best Fairs in Texas: A Celebration of Food, Fun, and Everything Bigger
- Urban Adventures for Modern Families: The Best of Uptown Dallas + Splash-Worthy Escapes Nearby
- Unmissable Dallas: A Teen’s Guide to the City’s Most Powerful History Lessons
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