What makes Texas “Texas”?
The Texas State Fair
A Mega-Event Celebrating Texas Culture
In 1886, a group of Dallas businessmen “planted the seed” and organized the first state fair on a North Dallas farm, attracting 100,000 visitors in its first season.
Today the fair has reaped the bounty with more than two million visitors annually. The longest-running fair in the nation—24 consecutive days—features more than 100 daily attractions in the world’s largest collection of art deco exhibit buildings at the Fair Park in Dallas, designated a National Historic Landmark. Along the way, their ride safety program is considered an amusement industry model.
Savoir-Faire of the Fair
After a visit to the livestock exhibits and birthing barn, which are almost mandatory at any state fair, the fair takes on a personality all its own and promotes its “Texas-size” bold culture.
Since 1952, Big Tex, a 55’ tall icon, has been the fair’s official greeter, welcoming visitors in his heavy Texas twang. Claimed to be the world’s tallest cowboy, he has a hinged jaw so that he appears to be “speaking” as he announces the daily events.
Towering 65 feet above the Midway, the $5-million Texas Skyway is a gondola ride which transports visitors around the fairgrounds.
With a cost of over $2 million to build, the famous 212-foot Texas Star Ferris Wheel guarantees you the best 20-story view of the fair and the Dallas skyline in a 12-minute ride. More than 70 carnival games, rides, and attractions are also featured on the State Fair of Texas Midway.
Take the advice of experienced fair attendees and visit the Midway before eating too much of the rich, unique foods that all seem to begin with the words “deep fried.” Though everything from butter, alligator, Twinkies, cheesecake, pork ribs, banana splits, and a batter-based fried Coke compete to steal the spotlight from Fletcher’s brand corny dogs, the famous food invented at the fair in 1942 remains the “top dog,” though turkey legs, hot roasted corn, and funnel cakes are still fan favorites.
“Well, thank y’all kindly for noticing my new size 96 Lucchese boots.”
Big Tex discussing his giant custom footwear
Tucked Away Attractions
Watch for signs at concession stands featuring the Big Choice Award Winners, the best tasting and creative food winners from a record 77 entries this year.
Bring your favorite prepared dish from home and enter various contests at The Competition Kitchen.
The Swifty Swine Pigs, a fair favorite, dress for success and compete in races held multiple times daily.
There is nothing unusual about a local Texas artist paying homage to the fair’s 140th anniversary and America’s 250th birthday, except that this quirky and marvelous, yet to be unveiled sculpture is made entirely of butter.
For a quiet respite, visit the Texas Discovery Gardens. In addition to over seven acres of garden, there’s a Snakes of Texas exhibit and a daily noon butterfly release.
Visit the African American Museum featuring a special Nelson Mandela exhibit or the Hall of State that celebrates Texas culture.
Scan the code to visit the official State Fair website.
Deep-Fried History: How State Fairs Became an American Staple
The nation’s first official state fair was held in Syracuse, New York, in 1841 and drew thousands of visitors. Its primary purpose was to promote farming and livestock breeding and share vital information. As the United States transitioned to an industrial nation, the fair organizers adapted by introducing carnival rides, entertainment, and specialty foods, but always kept a focus on their traditional farming and livestock themes.
