Welcome to the Texas State Fair - What’s New in 2025

Y’all, the gates have swung open again at Fair Park, and the 2025 State Fair of Texas is in full swing. The run is from September 26 through October 19.

This year brings fresh excitement: two brand new Midway rides (the Thunderbird, billed as the tallest portable swing tower in North America, and Defender, a high-impact propeller ride with LED lights) are making their debut. You can also catch performances by USA Breakdancers - 80s music meets high energy movement.

Food lovers rejoice - 2025’s lineup is wild (in the best way). Some of the new offerings include:

• Birria Ramen Bowl: a twist combining slow-braised beef in consommé with ramen.

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• Cajun Stuffed Seashells: jumbo pasta shells filled with shrimp, sausage, cornbread stuffing, all drenched in sauce.

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• Chocolate Covered Strawberries: simple, sweet, and perfect when you want something lighter.

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And of course, there are over-the-top creations pushing the boundaries of fair food. Things like a mashup “Meat Lovers Crunch Wrap Calzone” or “Deep Fried Carbonara” are drawing buzz (and likely a few food comas).

Don’t forget: there are deals to help your wallet last as long as your appetite. Tuesdays and Thursdays are Dr Pepper Value Days (get in for $12 with a promo code). Wednesdays, if you bring five canned goods, admission is just $7 until 5 p.m. Also, after 5 p.m. every day, everyone qualifies for the child admission price.

A Bit of Backstory: The Fair Through Time

Photo Courtesy: State Fair of Texas (BigTex)

It’s hard to believe, but the roots of the State Fair of Texas go back nearly 140 years. Here’s how we got here:

• The fair’s origin lies in the Dallas State Fair & Exposition, chartered on January 30, 1886 by Dallas businessmen including W.H. Gaston, John S. Armstrong, and Thomas L. Marsalis.

• Early on, there was a split disagreement about where to locate the fairgrounds. A rival “Texas State Fair & Exposition” was launched, but soon the two merged in 1887, forming what we know now as the State Fair of Texas.

• The grounds in East Dallas (now Fair Park) were gradually expanded, infrastructure and exhibit buildings were added, and over time the fair became a Texas institution.

• Through the 20th century, the fair evolved. In 1936, in conjunction with the Texas Centennial, a major exposition transformed Fair Park and many of its iconic Art Deco structures.

• Big Tex, the cowboy icon, made his first appearance in 1952, and began “speaking” to fairgoers in 1953.

• Over the years, the fair has grown, paused during the World War II years of 1942–45, and expanded its season and offerings.

• In 1986, Fair Park was designated a National Historic Landmark, and that year’s fair pulled in a record 3,959,058 visitors.

  
  

So when you stroll the grounds today, from the livestock barns to the grand exhibit halls to the Midway, you’re walking through more than just fun and food - you’re walking through layers of Texas history.

Enjoy the Indulgence (But Don’t Let It Undo You)

Let’s talk about something real: yes, the fair is a paradise for food adventurers. It’s tempting to go all in - fried this, sugar that, deep-fried everything. But if you're on a diet or trying to lose weight, you can still savor the fun without derailing your goals. Here are some friendly tips to stay balanced:

1. Pick your “splurge” carefully

   1. Choose one or two standout, feel-good items (think the Birria Ramen Bowl or a creative dessert). Make those your special treats. Let the rest of your meals be lighter.

2. Share with others

   1. Many fair foods are huge. Split one dish with a buddy or family member so you get a taste without overdoing it.

3. Mix in fresh or lighter items

   1. Balance a rich dish with something lighter - like a side salad, fruit, or a fresh taco. Some new items (like the chocolate covered strawberries) offer a sweet but simpler option.

4. Drink water (lots of it)

   1. Between all the walking, heat, and salty food, your body will thank you for hydration. Alternate each indulgent drink or soda with water.

5. Use portion control tricks

   1. Eat slower, savor each bite, pause mid-meal to check in with your hunger level. If half your plate is fried, you don’t have to finish every bite just because it’s there.

6. Get moving between treats

   1. Walk between fair sections, take extra laps, visit attractions on foot. You’ll burn a little energy and help your digestion.

7. Be kind to yourself

   1. One day (or even one meal) of indulgence doesn’t erase progress. Enjoy it, and then get back to your plan the next day.

Why You Should Go (and How to Make it Better)

If you’ve never been, or haven’t been in a while, 2025 is a great year to visit. New rides, new foods, cultural performances, new vendors, plus that timeless Texas fair atmosphere. (Oh, and Big Tex? He’s back in his spot greeting visitors.)

But here’s my personal nudge to you: experience the fair with joy and a little strategy. Go for the food that excites you, but don’t turn it into a guilt trip. Balance is not only possible - it’s smart.

If you like, I can help you map out a “fair food plan” (choosing must-try items, estimating calories, etc.) so you enjoy the fair and stay aligned with your goals. Want me to put something like that together?

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