If you know Texas, you know that they do everything big, and their state fair is no exception! This is fair season, and the State Fair of Texas is being held from September 27 to October 20 this year. Just like any state fair, it will feature entertainment, agriculture, food and lots of fun, but when you do things Texas-style, everything is bigger. If you’re in the Dallas area, or will be traveling that way within the next couple of weeks, here’s what you need to know so that you can join in on all of the fall fair fun!
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The Basics The State Fair of Texas is being held at Fair Park in Dallas. Hours are 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, but the exhibit halls are open until 10:00 pm on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the event. General admission is $17. Kids under four feet tall and senior citizens age 60 and up get in for $13, and kids under three are free. Parking is available on the property for a fee of $15. If you don’t want to deal with the car at all, pull up close to the entrance and pay $30 for valet service. There’s a free tram available in the outermost parking lot, so don’t worry about having to walk far!
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Special Events While you are visiting the State Fair, you will have ample opportunity to see some great shows! On the Silverado Main Stage, you’ll be able to see Asleep at the Wheel, Elvis impersonator Kraig Parker, Casting Crowns, Emblem 3 and more. These shows are free with park admission. In the Maytag Celebrity Kitchen, you’ll learn from the best as you watch demonstrations by popular restaurant chefs. Some of the special tours taking place include the Cupcake Truck Tour, the Michaels Crafts Tour, the Wolf Brand Chili Texas Tour and Seattle’s Best Coffee Tour. Anyone who has been to the State Fair of Texas before will be excited to find out that the fair’s 52-foot icon, Big Tex, is back. The structure was damaged last year in a fire, but he is repaired and will make it back in time for the unveiling on September 27 at 2:00 pm.
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College Football The historic Cotton Bowl football stadium on the grounds will be the spot to be on Saturdays during the fair, as there will be free tickets to college football games. On Saturday, September 28, you can see the Army Black Knights of the United States Military play the Bulldogs of Louisiana Tech. On October 5, see the Southwest Airlines State Fair Classic game between the Grambling State and the Prairie View A&M. Finally, on October 12, don’t miss the Red River Rivalry between Texas and Oklahoma.
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Of course, just like at any state fair, you will get your fill of equestrian events, rides, games, kid’s attractions and, perhaps best of all, fair food! You won’t want to miss the State Fair of Texas this year, so if you find yourself in the Dallas area, be sure to make time for this event.
