The State Fair of Texas is the largest state fair in the United States — a 24-day celebration of Texas culture, food, music, agriculture, and spectacle that draws approximately 2 million visitors each year to Fair Park in Dallas. Consequently, the Texas State Fair is more than a fair — it is a Texas institution that combines the annual Oklahoma vs Texas football game, the Big Tex Choice Award fried food competition, live music, carnival rides, and the iconic Big Tex statue into an experience unlike any other in the state. This guide covers everything about the 2025 Texas State Fair.
Texas State Fair 2025 Dates and Location
The State Fair of Texas 2025 runs for approximately 24 days beginning in late September and continuing through late October. Furthermore, the fair is held at Fair Park — a 277-acre National Historic Landmark in Dallas with Art Deco buildings originally constructed for the 1936 Texas Centennial Exposition. The entire fairgrounds are dedicated to the State Fair during the run, with parking available in Fair Park lots and DART light rail service providing access from downtown Dallas and surrounding areas. As a result, visiting by DART avoids the significant parking challenges on busy weekends.
Big Tex — The Symbol of the Fair
Big Tex is the 55-foot-tall talking cowboy statue that has greeted State Fair of Texas visitors since 1952 — the most recognizable icon in Texas fair culture. Furthermore, Big Tex suffered significant fire damage in 2012 but was fully restored and returned to the fairgrounds the following year with an enhanced animatronic system. As a result, Big Tex remains the focal point of the fairgrounds and the most photographed subject at the fair each year.
Texas State Fair Food
- Fletcher’s Original Corny Dogs — The quintessential State Fair food since 1942, a must-eat on every visit
- Big Tex Choice Award entries — Annual competition for the most creative fried food — winners include fried butter, fried Oreos, and dozens of creative creations
- Funnel cakes — Classic fair staple available throughout the fairgrounds
- Turkey legs — Massive smoked turkey legs beloved by fair visitors of all ages
- Cotton candy and candy apples — Traditional midway sweets at every State Fair
- Craft beer and specialty beverages — Texas craft breweries and specialty drink vendors across the fairgrounds
The Red River Showdown at the State Fair
The State Fair of Texas hosts the annual Oklahoma vs Texas football game — the Red River Showdown — at the Cotton Bowl Stadium within Fair Park each October. Furthermore, the game brings approximately 92,000 fans in a 50-50 split between Oklahoma (crimson) and Texas (burnt orange) to the Cotton Bowl for one of college football’s most unique atmospheres. As a result, the Red River Showdown weekend is the most crowded and most expensive period to visit the State Fair.
Texas State Fair Visitor Tips
- Buy tickets online in advance at bigtex.com for savings over gate prices
- Take DART light rail to avoid parking congestion on busy weekends
- Arrive early on weekdays for shorter lines and less crowding than weekend afternoons
- Budget separately for rides, food coupons, and activities beyond admission
- The Big Tex Choice Award winning fried food is always worth trying
- Wear comfortable shoes — the Fair Park grounds require significant walking
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Texas State Fair 2025?
The State Fair of Texas 2025 runs from late September through late October in Dallas at Fair Park. The fair typically spans approximately 24 days. Check bigtex.com for the exact 2025 dates, hours, and ticket information.
Where is the Texas State Fair held?
The State Fair of Texas is held at Fair Park in Dallas, Texas — a 277-acre National Historic Landmark featuring Art Deco buildings constructed for the 1936 Texas Centennial Exposition. Fair Park is located about 2 miles east of downtown Dallas.
How much does it cost to attend the Texas State Fair?
Texas State Fair admission prices vary by age and day. General admission for adults is typically in the $20 to $25 range. Rides, food, and activities require additional coupons or wristbands purchased separately. Check bigtex.com for current 2025 pricing.
Who is Big Tex at the Texas State Fair?
Big Tex is the iconic 55-foot-tall talking cowboy statue that has welcomed visitors to the State Fair of Texas since 1952. Big Tex greets fairgoers with a booming voice saying ‘Howdy, folks!’ and has become the most recognizable symbol of the fair.
What are the most popular foods at the Texas State Fair?
The State Fair of Texas is famous for its fried food competitions. Popular fair foods include Fletcher’s corn dogs (a State Fair staple since 1942), fried butter, fried Oreos, funnel cakes, turkey legs, and the annual Big Tex Choice Award winning fried food creation announced each year.
Read more about Dallas and the Red River Showdown in our Texas Sports section. You can also check our Oklahoma vs Texas Red River Showdown guide for the football game context. Additionally, our Texas Guide covers more major Texas events and attractions.
