State Fair of Texas – Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

The State Fair of Texas is a celebrated annual event that embodies the rich culture and traditions of the Lone Star State.

Held at the historic Fair Park in Dallas, the fair has been a staple since its inception in 1886, offering a diverse array of attractions, entertainment, and culinary delights.​

Let us see what you can expect while visiting the State Fair of Texas.

Planning Your Visit

Attending the 2025 State Fair of Texas can be both exciting and smooth with a bit of preparation.

Scheduled to run from September 26 to October 19, the event offers over three weeks of food, rides, exhibits, and entertainment.

Gates open each day at 9 a.m., allowing early visitors a head start on the festivities.

Exhibit buildings and outdoor attractions follow shortly after, opening at 10 a.m. and closing at 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, the fun stretches an extra hour, with closing at 10 p.m.

Ticket prices vary depending on age and time of entry. Adults can expect to pay between $15 and $25, while children and seniors will see reduced rates ranging from $5 to $18.

Several options are in place for those looking to save money or visit with a group.

Public transportation is strongly encouraged during busy weekends. DART’s Green Line stops directly at Fair Park Station, putting visitors right at the doorstep of the action. For those driving, parking is widely available, and trams are provided to shuttle guests from lots to entrance gates.

Arriving early in the day, dressing comfortably, and checking daily schedules in advance can make a major difference. With so much to do and see, a well-timed arrival means less waiting, more fun, and better access to popular events and exhibits.

Historical Significance

Established in 1886, the State Fair of Texas carries a legacy built on decades of evolution, tradition, and community gathering. What began as a modest event focused on livestock and agricultural showcases quickly expanded into one of the most anticipated annual events in the state.

Its ability to adapt has played a major role in its longevity, as organizers consistently responded to cultural shifts, economic changes, and historical events with fresh programming and broader attractions.

Operations came to a halt during World War I and World War II, pausing for the sake of national efforts and safety. In more recent history, the 2020 pandemic also forced a break, marking a rare moment of silence for an event that had otherwise run with remarkable consistency.

Each return after a hiatus has been marked by renewed public enthusiasm and increased participation, a sign of its deep roots in Texas culture.

Generations of families have walked its fairgrounds, ridden the Texas Star Ferris wheel, and indulged in foods that have become local legends.

Location and Accessibility

Fair Park, found just a couple of miles east of downtown Dallas at 3809 Grand Avenue, plays host to the State Fair of Texas.

Visitors traveling by car can expect straightforward access via Interstate 30, making it an ideal destination for locals and out-of-town guests alike.

The towering Texas Star Ferris wheel, visible from a great distance, acts as a natural guidepost for those trying to locate the entrance.

Navigating to the fair is made easier thanks to a wide range of transport options and clear signage throughout the area.

Traffic congestion can build up around the exits near Fair Park, especially during peak fair hours, but early arrivals and alternate routes can help avoid delays.

For convenience, public and private transportation services provide multiple ways to reach the grounds.

Proximity to downtown means visitors can easily pair a fair visit with other nearby attractions or restaurants.

Attractions and Entertainment

Visitors to the State Fair of Texas will find no shortage of thrilling experiences and engaging entertainment options throughout Fair Park.

A wide selection of attractions has been designed to cater to guests of all ages, ensuring everyone leaves with something to remember.

High-energy rides, live performances, interactive shows, and games fill every corner of the fairgrounds, creating an atmosphere packed with excitement.

The Midway continues to be one of the most vibrant sections of the fair, offering more than 70 rides. Two standout experiences include the Texas Star Ferris wheel, which reaches 212 feet into the sky and delivers stunning panoramic views, and the towering Top o’ Texas Tower, rising 500 feet for an unmatched perspective of Dallas.

Concerts and musical performances play a central role in the fair’s entertainment offerings. Multiple stages host artists across genres, from country and rock to Tejano, gospel, and hip-hop. Performances often run throughout the day, creating a soundtrack for the fair’s buzzing energy.

Crowds gather year after year not just for the rides but also for the atmosphere created by entertainers, roaming performers, and spontaneous events that surprise guests at every turn. With something happening around every corner, each visit offers something new to experience.

Educational and Cultural Exhibits

Education and cultural appreciation play a major role at the State Fair of Texas, which offers more than just entertainment.

Several on-site institutions open their doors to fairgoers, offering meaningful insights into Texas’s complex past and dynamic present.

Fair Park becomes a living classroom during the fair. Agricultural exhibits connect modern visitors with traditional farming practices and innovations that still shape the industry today.

Livestock shows not only entertain but also serve as interactive experiences, particularly for children and students. Families often walk away with a new respect for the hard work behind the food on their tables.

All of these exhibits encourage fairgoers to engage with material that informs and inspires.

The blend of history, tradition, and hands-on activity creates an experience that extends far past rides and food stands, giving visitors of all ages something to think about long after they’ve left Fair Park.

The Bottom Line

The State Fair of Texas offers a vibrant celebration of Texan culture, cuisine, and community.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fairgoer, the event promises an unforgettable experience filled with entertainment, education, and, of course, plenty of delicious food.​