A Fair Like No Other: Guide to the State Fair of Texas 2025

Hayden Wilcox
Jun 16
2 min read

The Texas State Fair is just 102 days away, spanning from September 26 – October 19, 2025.

TICKETS: https://bigtex.com/

1. Iconic Moments & Spectacles

Big Tex: This 55‑foot talking cowboy towers over the grounds. First introduced in 1952, his 2025 “Texas Shines Bright” artwork celebrates both urban and rural Texas.
Texas Star Ferris Wheel: Standing 216 feet tall, this iconic wheel has been a Fair staple since 1985.
Cotton Bowl Football: Watch college classics like the Red River Rivalry (Texas vs. Oklahoma on Oct. 12) and State Fair Classic during the event.

2. Family & Free Attractions

Included with admission, these activities are perfect for families:

Live shows: Billy Kidd magic, Bryan Berg card stacking, Cirque du Soleil “Songblazers” (ticketed), and Chainsaw Carving demos.
Zoo, petting areas, puppet shows, dino meet‑ups, and creative arts showcases.
The nightly Starlight parade and Illumination Sensation light show give a magical evening vibe.

3. Foodie Paradise

Home of Fletcher’s Corny Dogs (rumored origin in 1942), the fair features the famous Big Tex Choice Awards honoring the most creative fried treats.
Expect indulgent specialties: deep‑fried Twinkies, fried butter, fried avocado, even fried Coke.

✅ Tips for First-Time Families

Tickets & Money

Admission: $10–$25/day; $50 season pass (unlimited visits).
Use the Green Line DART to Fair Park to avoid parking fees ($20–$40/day).
Bring fair coupons (each equals $1); save unused ones for next year—they retain full value .

Must-Do First

Snap a photo at Big Tex Circle—a rite of passage.
Head early for free attractions: magic shows, petting zoo, card stacking, live music.

Bring Smart

Bags over 12"x12" are screened; no outside glass or alcohol .
Sun safety: hats, sunscreen, water bottles.
Wear comfy shoes—expect lots of walking.

Pacing the Day

Kids: pick one ride + one game each to avoid overspending.
Alternate rides with free shows—many are indoors and air‑conditioned.
Mid-afternoon lull? Perfect for a relax in the Biergarten (adult option) or shady areas.

Evening Fun

Don’t miss the Starlight Parade nightly and the Illumination Sensation light display.

🗓 Sample One-Day Itinerary

Time	Activity
10 a m	Arrive via DART, photo at Big Tex
10:30 a—12 p	Free shows: magic, card stacking
12 p—1 p	Lunch: corny dogs + fun treat
1 p—2 p	Petting zoo or puppet show
2 p—3 p	Ride the Texas Star
3 p—4 p	Explore Creative Arts cooking demo
4 p—5 p	Rest & snack
5 p—6 p	Kid ride + game
6 p—7 p	Dinner: award‑winning deep‑fried treat
7 p—8 p	Starlight Parade
8 p—8:30 p	Illumination Sensation light display
8:30 p onward	Concerts or evening stroll

🧡 Why It’s Worth It

Truly Texan tradition—steeped in history since 1886, the country’s longest continuous state fair.
Over 2 million attendees per year, blending local pride with vibrant energy.
With free attractions galore, smart planning lets families enjoy the spirit without overspending.

🎯 Final Thoughts

The State Fair of Texas offers a perfect mix of food, culture, entertainment, and family fun. Plan ahead—use DART, grab coupons, and pick a few can’t-miss shows. With thoughtful pacing and comfy planning, even fair newcomers will walk away saying, “Y’all, that was worth it!”

Personal Training in Irving, TX: https://www.aqilfitnesstrainingsolutions.com/sign-up