State Fair of Texas 2025: Dates, Events and Food Highlights, in Texas State Fair
The State Fair of Texas 2025 is set to return to Dallas with bigger attractions, dazzling entertainment, and food innovations that embody the spirit of the Lone Star State. Running from September 26 through October 19 at Fair Park, the event promises unforgettable experiences that blend tradition with fresh excitement. Visitors can expect live concerts, rodeo thrills, innovative food creations, auto showcases, and family fun spanning more than three weeks.
State Fair of Texas 2025 Dates, Hours, and Theme
The Texas State Fair will open its gates on Friday, September 26, 2025, and run until Sunday, October 19, 2025. Fair hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The chosen theme for this year, “Texas Shines Bright,” highlights the culture, innovation, and traditions that make the fair a unique celebration.
Quick Reference Table – State Fair of Texas 2025
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Fair Park, Dallas, Texas |
| Dates | September 26 – October 19, 2025 |
| Theme | Texas Shines Bright |
| Hours | 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Sun–Thu), 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Fri–Sat) |
Ticketing, Discounts, and Admission
General admission tickets range from $19 to $29 for adults, while children and seniors can attend for $14 to $24. Season passes and FLEX ticket bundles are available, often including ride and food coupons.
Special Discounts Available
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Opening Day: $10 admission with donation of two peanut butter jars.
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Military, veterans, and first responders: $5 discount with valid ID.
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Wednesdays before 5 p.m.: $7 admission with donation of five canned goods.
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Senior Thursdays: $7 at the gate, $9 online for ages 60+.
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After 5 p.m. daily: Adult tickets available at children’s prices.
Parking costs about $30 per vehicle and gates open at 9:30 a.m. A clear bag policy remains in place for security.
Big Tex, Traditions, and Iconic Attractions
No Texas State Fair is complete without Big Tex, the towering cowboy figure that has welcomed visitors since 1952. Ahead of the 2025 fair, Big Tex was reinstalled at Fair Park, serving as the fair’s most recognizable symbol.
Among the attractions are carnival rides including the legendary Texas Star Ferris Wheel, livestock exhibits, arts and crafts, and cultural showcases. Strict safety measures, including a no-firearms policy, are in place to ensure a family-friendly experience.
Rodeo Highlights and Competitive Shows
Rodeo enthusiasts will find action-packed weekends throughout the fair. Events include:
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UPRA Big Tex Rodeo Series (Sept. 26–27)
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Youth Rodeo Finals (Sept. 28)
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Ranch Rodeo (Oct. 3–4)
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Mexican Fiesta Rodeo (Oct. 5)
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ProRodeo Rough Stock Kickoff (Oct. 10–11)
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Cowboys of Color Rodeo (Oct. 12)
Texas Auto Show and Innovations
The Texas Auto Show returns as a centerpiece event, showcasing the latest vehicles and innovations. Brands like Jeep, Dodge, Ram, FIAT, Chrysler, and Alfa Romeo will offer interactive displays and family attractions. Entry to the auto show is included with general fair admission.
Music and Entertainment at the Fair
Live music has always been a signature element of the State Fair. In 2025, the Chevrolet Main Stage, Bud Light Stage, and Bank of Texas Stage will host more than 100 performances.
Highlights include:
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Kaitlin Butts and Wade Bowen on opening day
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TLC headlining on September 27
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La Mafia, The Band Perry, Paul Wall, Cold War Kids, and more across the fair’s schedule
A new venue, Levi’s Denim Club @ Magnolia, will offer nightly entertainment and unique interactive experiences.
Food Highlights at State Fair of Texas 2025
Each year, the fair’s culinary creations make national headlines, and 2025 is no exception. Over 35 new food and drink options are being introduced, along with the annual Big Tex Choice Awards recognizing the most creative and best-tasting entries.
Notable New Dishes
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Birria Ramen Bowl – ramen paired with Mexican birria and cheese
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Meat Lovers Crunch Wrap Calzone – deep-fried fusion of calzone and wrap
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Deep-Fried Carbonara – pasta-inspired indulgence from Eataly
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El Cono Loco – Tex-Mex meets Italian in a garlic parmesan cone
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Churro Cheesecake Jalapeño Popper – jalapeño stuffed with cheesecake and fried in churro batter
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Decadent Dubai Chocolate Dream Sundae – luxury dessert with pistachios and gold accents
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Ox’cellent Cornbread Sliders – sliders made with oxtail and collard greens
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Yabba Dabba Doo Dirty Sprite – loaded sweet drink topped with candy and cream
State Fair Classic and Sports at the Fair
The State Fair Classic is a central sports event featuring Prairie View A&M vs. Grambling State at the Cotton Bowl. The 2025 game marks the 100th anniversary of this HBCU rivalry and will be followed by a live concert from TLC.
Other sports events include women’s soccer matches and programming around the Red River Rivalry between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma.
Planning Tips for Visitors
To make the most of the State Fair of Texas 2025, visitors should consider:
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Arriving early to enjoy popular rides and food stalls.
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Using the fair’s digital visitor guide and maps.
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Wearing comfortable shoes for walking across Fair Park.
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Buying coupons in advance for food and rides.
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Checking daily schedules for live shows, contests, and parades.
The Texas State Fair 2025 is set to be a showcase of Texas pride, bringing together the flavors, music, sports, and traditions that make it one of the most celebrated fairs in the nation. From the iconic Big Tex to the culinary surprises of the Big Tex Choice Awards, fairgoers will experience a uniquely Texan celebration.
