The State Fair of Texas is one of the biggest and popular annual events in Texas. It has been around for more than 125 years. Every year, thousands of people flock to it from far and wide.

What is it that makes the State Fair of Texas so popular? What types of fun can people have there? Why should you go?

Let me tell you why this is one event you don’t want to miss if you are anywhere near Dallas around October.

Where & When Is The State Fair Of Texas?

The State Fair of Texas is held in Dallas. It lasts for 24 days and starts on the last Friday of September.

The fair is held at Fair Park, which is only a few miles east of downtown Dallas. It is also right next to Cotton Bowl stadium, where the fair’s signature football matches are played.

Why Should I Go To The State Fair Of Texas?

In a nutshell, there is a lot to do and see at the State Fair of Texas. Here are just a few of them…

Big Tex

Big Tex is one of the most recognizable mascots in Texas! He has been the State Fair’s mascot for more than 50 years. His primary job is to welcome visitors to the fair, and to make announcement during the fair.

It hasn’t always been happy times for Big Tex. He burned down in 2012, but was rebuilt and ready to go in 2013.

Football

Two college football games are a main part of the State Fair. The famous “Red River Rivalry” or “Texas – OU” game between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma is the centerpiece.

The State Fair Classic is the other big game, and is played between Prairie View A&M University and  Grambling State University.

These games are both played at the Cotton Bowl at Fair Park.

Auto Show

If you like cars, you must go the State Fair Auto Show. It is a huge auto show with more than 400,000 sq ft of exhibit space. Car manufacturers often use this show to unveil new models to the public, so you are likely to see cars that few others have seen before.

Livestock Competitions & Exhibits

If you like animals, there is plenty to see at the Texas State Fair.

There are various livestock shows, including one where the young ‘uns show the animals that they have raised and cared for, and an open show for all ages.

One of my favorites are the equestrian events where cowboys and cowgirls on horses show their incredible skills with barrel racing, roping, and ranch sorting. Also, don’t miss the Donkey & Mule show!

Deep Fried…

Let’s face it, “deep fried” is a southern thing and it’s very much part of Texas! It’s also a part of the State Fair!

Here you will find all kinds of deep fried food… deep fried Twinkies, deep fried Oreos, deep fried peanut butter, deep fried pork ribs, deep fried butter (the cardiologist’s favorite), and much more.

Ferris Wheel

The Texas Star Ferris wheel is 212 ft high, and is the biggest in the USA!

The Ferris wheel has 44 gondolas and can take up to 264 people. The incredible view you get when your gondola gets to the top of the Ferris wheel makes it the most popular ride at the fair.

Be sure to take at least one ride on the Texas Star Ferris wheel. 

Live Music Shows

The live music shows are another big attraction to the Texas State Fair.

There are more than 80 live music shows during the fair, including more than 10 well-known bands and artists. In 2014, for example, The Swon Brothers and Kool & The Gang, among others, will be playing at the fair.

These music performances all take place on the Chevy Main Stage.

It doesn’t end here. I have only touched on some of the things you can do at the fair. There is more… like a Chili cook-off and Dutch Oven cook-off, among many others.

It is now up to you to go to the fair and have all the fun you possibly can!

PS. Have you been to the State Fair of Texas before? Tell us all about it in the comments below…