Texas State Fair 2025: Your Complete Guide to The Most Texan Place on Earth

The State Fair of Texas 2025 is back bigger and better than ever, running from September 26 through October 19, 2025, at historic Fair Park in Dallas. As the longest-running state fair in the nation at 24 consecutive days, this iconic Texas tradition promises unforgettable experiences for families, food lovers, and thrill-seekers alike.

2025 State Fair Dates & Ticket Information

The State Fair of Texas 2025 operates from Thursday, September 26 through Sunday, October 19, 2025. With nearly a month of festivities, there's plenty of time to experience everything this massive celebration has to offer.

Ticket Prices and Options

• Daily Admission: $19-29 for adults, $14-24 for children/seniors (prices vary by day)
• Flex Tickets: Starting at $29 each (valid any day of the fair)
• Season Pass: $52 for unlimited visits throughout the entire fair
• Military & First Responder Discounts: $5 off regular admission every day

Must-See Attractions and Entertainment

Big Tex and Iconic Landmarks

No visit to the State Fair is complete without saying "Howdy!" to Big Tex, the 55-foot cowboy who has welcomed visitors since 1952. Don't miss the Texas Star Ferris Wheel, one of the tallest Ferris wheels in North America, offering breathtaking views of the Dallas skyline.

Live Music and Entertainment

The fair features multiple stages with free concerts throughout the run:

• Chevrolet Main Stage: Major headliners and country music stars
• Bud Light Stage: Local and regional acts
• Yuengling Flight Stage: Diverse musical performances

Sports and Special Events

College football fans can experience two major games at the Cotton Bowl:

• State Fair Classic: September 27, 2025 (Grambling State vs. Prairie View A&M)
• Red River Rivalry: October 11, 2025 (Texas Longhorns vs. Oklahoma Sooners)

Ultimate State Fair Food Guide

The State Fair of Texas is internationally renowned for its creative and outrageous food offerings. From classic fair foods to Instagram-worthy creations, there's something to satisfy every craving.

Classic Fair Foods

• Fletcher's Original Corny Dogs: The original corn dog, invented at the fair in 1942
• Funnel Cakes: Sweet, powdered sugar-dusted perfection
• Turkey Legs: Massive, smoky, and satisfying
• Cotton Candy: Spun sugar magic in multiple flavors

Big Tex Choice Awards Winners

Each year, the fair's Big Tex Choice Awards recognize the most creative new food and drink items. Past winners have included deep-fried butter, fried beer, and other wonderfully outrageous creations that embody the "everything's bigger in Texas" spirit.

Money-Saving Tips for State Fair 2025

While the State Fair can be expensive, there are numerous ways to enjoy the experience without breaking the bank:

Discount Days and Special Offers

• Thrifty Thursdays: Smaller portions of popular foods at discounted prices
• Student Discounts: Free weekday admission for students with valid ID (expanded to include some weekends in 2025)
• DART Transportation: Take the Green Line to Fair Park Station to avoid parking fees ($20-40)
• Season Pass Value: At $52, the season pass pays for itself after just two visits

Free Activities Inside the Fair

• Live music performances on multiple stages
• Creative Arts exhibits and demonstrations
• Petting zoos and farm animal displays
• Brand activations and interactive exhibits
• Art galleries and cultural displays

Getting There and Parking

The State Fair of Texas is located at 3809 Grand Avenue in Dallas's historic Fair Park. The venue is easily accessible by car or public transportation:

• By Car: Official parking lots range from $20-40 per vehicle
• By DART: Take the Green Line to Fair Park Station for convenient, affordable access
• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft drop-off zones are designated throughout Fair Park

Planning Your Perfect State Fair Day

To maximize your State Fair experience, consider these insider tips:

• Arrive Early: Gates typically open at 10 AM on weekdays, 9 AM on weekends
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing lots of walking on the 277-acre grounds
• Bring Cash: While many vendors accept cards, cash transactions are often faster
• Check the Weather: Texas weather can be unpredictable in fall
• Download the Official App: Get maps, schedules, and exclusive offers

Attendance and Crowd Expectations

The State Fair typically welcomes over 2.3 million visitors annually. Historically, attendance starts slower in the first week and builds to peak crowds during the final two weekends, especially around the Red River Rivalry football game. Weekdays generally offer a more relaxed experience with shorter lines and easier navigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 2025 State Fair of Texas dates?

The State Fair of Texas 2025 runs from September 26 through October 19, 2025, for 24 consecutive days.

How much does admission cost to the Texas State Fair?

Daily admission ranges from $19-29 for adults and $14-24 for children/seniors, with prices varying by day of the week. Season passes are available for $52.

What's the best day to visit the State Fair of Texas?

Weekdays typically offer smaller crowds and shorter lines. Thursdays feature "Thrifty Thursday" discounts on food. The busiest days are usually the final two weekends.

Is parking free at the State Fair of Texas?

No, parking ranges from $20-40 at official Fair Park lots. Consider taking DART's Green Line to Fair Park Station to avoid parking costs.

What food is the State Fair of Texas famous for?

The fair is famous for Fletcher's Original Corny Dogs (invented here in 1942), creative Big Tex Choice Award winners, and over-the-top fried foods that embody Texas's "bigger is better" philosophy.

The State Fair of Texas 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Texan culture, cuisine, and community. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned fair-goer, this year's event offers something special for everyone. From the iconic Big Tex greeting to the last bite of a Fletcher's Corny Dog, every moment contributes to what makes this truly "The Most Texan Place on Earth."