FAQs

The 2024 State Fair of Texas will run September 27 – October 20, 2024. Gates will open Friday, September 27, at 10 a.m.

Hours of Operation

Sundays – Thursdays: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Fridays – Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Last entry time is 9 p.m.

Parking Gates & Ticket Booths

Open daily at 9 a.m. 

State Fair of Texas Midway and Fair Park Museum hours vary

La Feria Estatal de Texas de 2024 se celebrará del 27 de Septiembre al 20 de Octubre del 2024. Las puertas se abrirán el viernes 27 de Septiembre a las 10 de la mañana.    

Horario de apertura   

De domingo a jueves 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.   

Viernes y sábados: 10.00 a.m. – 10 p.m. Última hora de entrada: 9 p.m.  

Puertas de estacionamiento y taquillas   

Abiertas todos los días a las 9 a.m.   

El horario del State Fair of Texas Midway y de los Museos del Fair Park varían 

To get to the Fair easily, navigate to the State Fair of Texas parking lot located at Gate 2 at 925 S. Haskell, Dallas, Texas 75223. Insert that address into your maps app or follow one of the directions below. 

Directions by car: 

From Sherman-Plano-Richardson 

Take U.S. 75 (North Central Expressway) South toward downtown Dallas. Take exit 284A to connect to Interstate 30 East (toward Texarkana), then take exit 48A, towards Haskell Avenue. Turn left on Haskell, go straight through the light at Parry Avenue, and enter at Gate 2. 

From Austin-Waco 

Take Interstate 35E North to downtown Dallas. Take exit 428B to connect to Interstate 30 East (toward Texarkana), then take exit 48A, towards Haskell Avenue. Turn left on Haskell, go straight through the light at Parry Avenue, and enter at Gate 2. 

From Fort Worth-Abilene-Weatherford 

Take Interstate 30 East to Dallas. Follow signs for Interstate 30 East toward Texarkana. After passing downtown Dallas, take exit 48A, towards Haskell Avenue. Turn left on Haskell, go straight through the light at Parry Avenue, and enter at Gate 2. 

From Denton-Lewisville-Gainesville 

Take Interstate 35E South to downtown Dallas and exit 427E. Immediately after taking the exit, move to one of the left two lanes and enter Interstate 30, Eastbound. Follow signs for Interstate 30 East toward Texarkana. After passing Downtown Dallas, take exit 48A, towards Haskell Avenue. Turn left on Haskell, go straight through the light at Parry Avenue, and enter at Gate 2. 

From Houston-Huntsville-Corsicana 

Take Interstate 45 North to exit 284A. Move to the right lane and follow signs for Interstate 30 East. Take exit 48A, towards Haskell Avenue. Turn left on Haskell, go straight through the light at Parry Avenue, and enter at Gate 2. 

From Texarkana-Greenville-Rockwall 

Take Interstate 30 West toward downtown Dallas. Take exit 48A, towards Haskell Avenue. Turn left on Haskell, go straight through the light at Parry Avenue, and enter at Gate 2. 

Directions by train: 

Using the DART Rail Green Line, visitors can arrive at the State Fair of Texas from two stations – Fair Park Station, located on Parry Avenue at the entrance of the fairgrounds or MLK, Jr. Station, located south of R.B. Cullum Blvd. and convenient to the MLK fairground entrance (Gate 6). 

Ticket prices vary depending on discounts available and day of the week. 

General admission: $25-$15
Child (ages 3 to 12): $18-$5
Child two and younger: FREE
Senior (ages 60 and older): $10-$18
Seniors ½ price every Thursday: $5

State Fair Season Pass & Packages
The State Fair Season Pass is only $60 and allows you attend the State Fair every day of the season. It also includes FREE State Fair gear, discounts, a bring-a-friend ticket, and much more! We also offer a variety of State Fair Combo packages. For more information check out our tickets page.

Group Discount
If you are attending the Fair with a group of more than 25 people, advance group discount tickets are available. The earlier you buy, the more you save!

For additional discounts offered during the State Fair, visit our discounts page.

While there are several parking options at the State Fair of Texas, the easiest and most convenient parking lot can be reached by entering at Gate 2 which is located at 925 S. Haskell, Dallas, Texas 75223. Click here to find your way to this gate.  State Fair parking is $30 per space at official Fair lots. All State Fair parking is well lit and conveniently located near pedestrian gates. Bicycle racks are located inside Gates 5, 6, and 11, but they are on a first come first served basis.  

PARKING SPACES FOR THE DISABLED REQUIRE A DESIGNATED LICENSE PLATE OR HANG TAG.  

Overnight parking is prohibited. The only exception is TX vs. OU weekend only in designated RV parking lots. Space is allocated on a first come first served basis. Adjacent spaces may not be reserved. Cash or credit card payment is due at the gate upon entry unless you have already pre-paid for your space.  

Click here for RV overnight parking information specific to each weekend.

The Dallas-area is filled with places for visitors to stay. Our friends at Visit Dallas have compiled a list here.

The State Fair of Texas uses coupons as its main form of currency. Each coupon is valued at $1. For example, a ride that costs 6 coupons is equal to $6.   

As of 2023, fairgoers may now use coupons for food, rides, AND games! Don’t forget, coupons from previous Fairs are valid any year that you visit the State Fair of Texas. Coupons can be purchased online in advance or at booths inside the Fair. 

Yes! Food and Midway coupons do not expire and can be used for future Fairs.

Small businesses from across the state sell State Fair food like corny dogs, turkey legs, cotton candy, Frito Pies, Sausage-on-a-Stick, and much more! Every year, these loyal food vendors create new Fair foods by putting a spin on gourmet, regional, national, and even international dishes. Check out our New Foods page to see this year’s lineup, learn more about each dish, and where you can find them on the fairgrounds. We also sell a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks. Be sure to purchase your coupons once you get inside the gate or order them online in advance at BigTex.com/Tickets. 

Additionally, the State Fair of Texas offers several vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free food and beverage items. Visit any hospitality center or guest relations location for more information. 

The State Fair of Texas is a casual, family-friendly environment. We suggest you dress comfortably, wear walking shoes – or cowboy boots if you prefer – and check the local weather report before you leave for the Fair. 

Proper attire, including shoes and shirts, must always be worn. Texas themed shirts and hats are acceptable and encouraged. 

The State Fair of Texas reserves the right to deny admission to or remove any person wearing attire that is considered inappropriate or could detract from the experience of other guests. 

Ensuring the State Fair is family-friendly is an important part of the Fair experience. In that spirit, we ask you to use your discretion and common sense. 

Attire that is not appropriate for the Fair — and may result in refusal of admittance — includes but is not limited to: 

• Clothing with objectionable material, including obscene language or graphics.
• Clothing which, by nature, exposes excessive portions of the skin that may be viewed as inappropriate for a family environment.
• Clothing with multiple layers are subject to search upon entry.
• Offensive tattoos
• Costumes or masks (unless they are for medical purposes) may not be worn by guests 12 years of age or older.
• Costumes may not contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
• Masks may not cover the head and face entirely.  Eyes must be visible.
• Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry and/or removed from the State Fair of Texas, unless attire can be modified to meet the above standards. 

Food, drinks, rides, and games, are all paid for using State Fair Food & Midway Coupons. State Fair Food & Midway Coupons can be purchased at the numerous coupon booths around the grounds or in advance online at BigTex.com/Tickets.   

No, coupons are used to purchase food and beverages, ride rides, or play games; however, you will need cash or a credit card to purchase items from our shopping exhibitors. Several ATMs are available throughout the fairgrounds. See their locations on the map.

Unused Food and Midway coupons cannot be exchanged for money, as they are good year after year and never expire. 

The State Fair of Texas offers more than 100 FREE, daily activities that are included in the price of your admission ticket. Whether it be our weekend rodeos, 90-plus musical acts, or street performers, there’s something for fairgoers of all ages! Read more about our FREE attractions at BigTex.com/Attractions.

Most rides at the State Fair of Texas range from 5-12 coupons. The majority of kiddie rides located on the Kidway, are less than 6 coupons. Games at the State Fair range from 3-20 coupons. The State Fair Midway is made up of a collection of small businesses that set their own prices. And don’t forget that every child wins a prize when they play select games on the State Fair of Texas Midway!

Pets are NOT allowed; however, a service animal is permitted for individuals with a disability. Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person’s disability. All service animals must remain on a leash or harness and may not be left unattended. Service animal behavior is the responsibility of the owner, and you will be asked to leave the Fair if their behavior becomes a threat to the safety of another guest or employee. We do not have accommodations for pets at the fairgrounds. 

For more information about service animals and the ADA, please visit their website. 

Bull horns, air horns, megaphones, and similar items are NOT allowed. Please leave these items at home or in your vehicle prior to entering the fairgrounds. Use of these items on the fairgrounds is strictly prohibited and will result in the item being confiscated and could result in you being removed from the Fair.

Large signs or props are NOT allowed. Please leave them at home or in your vehicle prior to entering the fairgrounds. Use of these items on the fairgrounds will result in confiscation of related materials and could result in you being removed from the Fair.

Unless credentialed through the State Fair of Texas’ PR office, selfie sticks, tripods, monopods, and similar items are NOT allowed. We ask that you leave your selfie sticks, tripods, monopods, and/or similar items at home or in your vehicle in the interest of the overall safety of our visitors. The use of these items on the fairgrounds is strictly prohibited and will result in the item being confiscated and could result in you being removed from the Fair. If you are a photographer interested in taking photographs with professional or extensive camera equipment, you must first visit BigTex.com/Media and fill out the State Fair of Texas Media Credentials Request Form.

The State Fair of Texas is—and has always been—a private entity. The Fair leases the Fair Park property from the City of Dallas but is not part of the City or controlled by a government body.

The State Fair of Texas prohibits the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, within the 277 acres of Fair Park without prior written approval of State Fair’s Public Relations Department. This process safeguards that the remote pilot complies with current FAA rules, provisions, and guidance by taking a responsible, risk-based approach to ensure the safety of the thousands of “non-participants” within the dynamic “open-air assembly” nature of the Fair event. Law enforcement will respond to all unauthorized UAS to identify the pilot and document the aircraft in use. The State Fair of Texas prohibits the use of all remote controlled devices of any type, including, but not limited to, aircraft, drones, quad-copters, cars or trucks, on or above property owned, leased or controlled by the Fair. Individuals violating State Fair rules are subject to ejection from the grounds and/or criminal enforcement of applicable statutes.

In the interest of the overall safety for our guests, bicycles, skateboards, scooters, roller skates, and/or other wheeled forms of transportation are prohibited inside the gates (wagons to transport small children are approved.) 

Yes, you may bring a wagon.

Tasting “Fair food” is a big reason why people visit the State Fair of Texas, but if you have any dietary restrictions or other reasons for wanting to bring your own food or beverages, please do. Fairgoers may only bring softshell coolers that meet the new bag policy sizing standard. Please note, loose ice is not permitted.  Re-usable ice packs are recommended. Please note: Alcohol, glass containers, and metal knives and forks are prohibited, and your cooler will be searched as you enter the grounds. 

State Fair of Texas Guest Code of Conduct 

The State Fair of Texas is a nonprofit organization that’s mission is to celebrate all things Texan by promoting agriculture, education, and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment. We want to make sure the Fair is a fun – and safe – place for all our fairgoers, vendors, and Tex Team members.   

When you join us on the fairgrounds and attend the Fair, all fairgoers are expected to respect and abide by the following rules:   

• We expect all fairgoers to be Fair-friendly and respectful of your fellow fairgoers.  

• Behavior that is unruly, disruptive, offensive, or illegal is not allowed on the fairgrounds.  

• Disruptive running is not allowed on the fairgrounds.  

• Improper or illegal use of motorized scooters or similar items will not be allowed. Dangerous behavior or failure to abide by scooter rules will result in loss of privilege to operate a scooter and subject the offender to possible eviction from the fairgrounds.   

• After 5 p.m. Minors Policy: Starting at 5:00 p.m. daily, all minors, age 17 and under, must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or chaperone (21+) when they enter the Fair. Parents, guardians, or chaperones may accompany no more than six minors 17 years of age and under.  

• In addition to our safety measures on the fairgrounds, we also encourage guests to lock their vehicles and ensure they have properly stowed away any personal items or valuables.  

• Entry to the fairgrounds is contingent on a security screening process. All guests will be screened for weapons either by a walk-through or hand-held detection device. Bags, purses, coolers, and similar containers will be searched to determine if any illegal, prohibited, or suspicious items are present that may pose a safety or security concern within the property. For a full list of prohibited items, visit: BigTex.com/FAQ.  

• We ask that everyone remain “Fair Aware.” If you see something that doesn’t look right on the fairgrounds, please say something to a uniformed police officer or State Fair Safety Team member. Let’s all do our part to keep the State Fair safe.   

• Dress appropriately for a family-oriented and mostly outdoor event. Clothing must adequately cover the body. Visible undergarments are not permitted. Guests may be asked to remove masks, hoods, or other clothing that obscures the entire face of the person. Clothing likely to provoke a disturbance or involve other guests in open conflict is not permitted. Shoes must be worn at all times.  

• Not staging any form of public event or protest, soliciting, or distributing information of any kind without the prior written approval of State Fair of Texas management or security personnel.  

• Not leaving bags or baggage unattended. Any unattended bags are subject to search and possible seizure.   

• Only registered service animals that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements are allowed. No pets are allowed. Dogs and other animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. The State Fair of Texas reserves the right to deny access or require removal of any service animal that is disruptive or poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others.  

• Observing the hours of operation of the State Fair of Texas and its vendors, and promptly leaving at the close of business hours or as otherwise directed by State Fair of Texas management or security personnel.  

By attending the State Fair of Texas, you agree to abide by all the Fair’s rules, including all health and safety rules. Violation of these rules may cause forfeiture of your admission ticket and removal from the premises. For additional rules and legal disclosures, please refer to the back of your State Fair of Texas admission ticket or visit BigTex.com/FAQ. State Fair of Texas management and public safety personnel reserve the right at any time to disperse crowds or remove any person or groups of people from any area of the property when necessary or otherwise deemed appropriate. Any person engaged in any unlawful activity may face criminal prosecution.   

The State Fair of Texas respects the rights of all individuals and pledges the equitable enforcement of these rules, reserving the right to define and interpret conduct that may be unacceptable and to modify the terms of the Guest Code of Conduct at any time. The State Fair of Texas appreciates your cooperation in adhering to the Guest Code of Conduct.

During the 2024 State Fair of Texas, starting at 5 p.m. daily, all minors, age 17 and under, must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or chaperone (21+) when entering the Fair. Parents, guardians, or chaperones may accompany no more than six minors 17 years of age and under.  

You may purchase Food and Midway coupons online in advance, or inside the fairgrounds. Cash and credit cards are accepted. We also accept Apple Pay on our automated coupon kiosks. 

If you choose to purchase your coupons in advance online, please know the following criteria MUST be met in order to redeem your online coupon pickup order: 

• Coupon vouchers must be presented by the original purchaser only. 

• Original purchaser must present a valid state issued photo ID & physical credit card used for purchase. No temporary IDs accepted. 

• Name & address on ID and credit card information must match billing address on order. 

• Coupon vouchers CAN NOT be transferred or gifted to another individual for use. i.e. cannot be purchased by a parent for pick-up by a child. 

• No PO Box billing addresses allowed for digital pick-up. 

• No Corporate Credit Cards allowed for digital pick-up. 

• No Virtual Credit Cards allowed for digital pick-up. 

All sales are final sales and not eligible for refunds, exchanges, reschedule, or transfer. 

All sales are final and are not eligible for refunds, exchanges, reschedules, or transfers. 

When entering the fairgrounds during the annual State Fair of Texas, you hereby grant permission to SFT, its affiliates, and licensees, without compensation, to capture, film, video, photograph, publish, transmit, stream, display, reproduce, and otherwise use your image or likeness captured while attending the Fair or on the fairgrounds with or without your knowledge.

The State Fair of Texas prohibits fairgoers from carrying all firearms, knives with blades over 5.5 inches long, clubs, explosive devices, ammunition, chemical dispensing devices, replicas or hoaxes, or weapons of any kind. This includes concealed carry and open carry of firearms anywhere on the fairgrounds including Cotton Bowl Stadium. This policy does not include elected, appointed, or employed peace officers.   

How will the State Fair enforce this new policy? 

• The State Fair is working diligently with its security partners to plan for the implementation of this policy.   

• Security team members will receive ample training to enforce this new policy. In addition, the State Fair has made significant financial investments in the security technology OPENGATE ® – a innovative Weapons Detection System designed for screening people as well as their bags. OPENGATE is one piece of the overall security screening process at every entry gate. 

How is the weapons policy different from last year? 

• Previously, our weapons policy allowed licensed concealed carry. Now it does not. 

Why did the Fair change its weapons policy? 

• Every year, the State Fair of Texas has an ongoing safety and security assessment, adding and adjusting security measures to ensure a safe environment for all fairgoers, employees, and vendors. For us to continue offering a safe event for all, we feel this is an important measure to implement.   

• Other events like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, and Rodeo Austin follow similar weapons policies as well.

No. 

 How can I stay safe if I can’t use my License to Carry (LTC)? 

The State Fair of Texas works with DPD, DFR, DART Police, DISD Police, regional, state, and federal partners as well as private security partners to help keep fairgoers, employees, and vendors safe. While each of the entities focuses on ensuring a safe and family-friendly environment at the State Fair of Texas, we also ask that everyone remain “Fair Aware.” If you see something that doesn’t look right on the fairgrounds, please say something to a uniformed police officer or State Fair Safety Team member. Let’s all do our part to keep the State Fair safe.   

Yes. Whether on or off duty, peace officers from any jurisdiction must provide the appropriate credentials to the Dallas Police Officer posted at the entry gate for verification. 

Other prohibited items include firearms and/or ammunition; air guns, BB guns, pellet guns, paintball guns, slingshots; firearm replicas, including non-firing imitations, toys, and their components. Other weapons of any kind. Any items deemed inappropriate or hazardous by the State Fair of Texas. 

To continue providing a safe environment for the public and significantly expedite fairgoers’ entry into the park, the State Fair has implemented a policy that limits the size of bags that may be brought into the State Fair. Exceptions to this policy will be made for medical bags and parenting bags after proper inspection.  

• Approved Bags | The following outlines bags that are permitted: 

• Bags and soft-shell coolers that are 9 inches x 10 inches x 12 inches (9” x 10” x 12”) or smaller. 

• Medical bags and parenting/childcare bags. 

• These medical and parenting/childcare bags do not have to be 9” x 10” x 12” or smaller but will be searched at all entry gates. 

• All permitted bags are subject to search. 

How will the State Fair enforce this new policy? 

• The State Fair is working diligently with its security partners to plan for the implementation of this policy.   

• Security team members will receive ample training to enforce this new policy. In addition, the State Fair has made significant financial investments in the security technology OPENGATE ® – a Weapons Detection System designed for screening people as well as their bags. OPENGATE is one piece of the overall security screening process at every entry gate. 

What about bags for the football games in the Cotton Bowl? 

The Cotton Bowl has followed a clear-bag policy for several years and will continue to. Please note the Cotton Bowl does not allow childcare/diaper bags, but items normally carried in a diaper bag may be put into a clear plastic bag for venue entry. For specific details prior to attending a football game in the Cotton Bowl we encourage fans to visit BigTex.com/Football.  

Prohibited Bags | Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:  

• All bags larger than 9” x 10” x 12.” 

• Hardshell coolers (Unless medically necessary.) 

• Medical bags are subject to search. 

Yes. Medical bags may be brought into the Fair and do not have to be under 9” x 10” x 12” but will be searched at all entry gates. 

What is considered an approved “medical bag?”
Medical bags contain medically necessary items, including but not limited to insulin, medication, portable oxygen, small soft pack coolers, and breast pumps. 

How does a fairgoer ensure they can bring their medical bag in?
Upon entry, fairgoers should inform the security member who checks their bags that they or someone in their party has a bag containing medically necessary items. 

Yes. Parenting, childcare, or diaper bags may be brought into the Fair and do not have to be 9” x 10” x 12” or smaller but they will be searched at all entry gates.  

What is considered an approved “Parenting, childcare, or diaper bag”?
Parenting, childcare, or diaper bags contain necessary items for childcare including but not limited to diapers, wipes, baby formula, and small snacks.   

No. There are no lockers or bag checks at the State Fair. Guests with a prohibited bag or item must return it to their vehicle or discard it properly. Prohibited items can NOT be held by security, staff, or volunteers. 

• No bags or soft shell coolers larger than 9″ x 10″ x 12″ inches.
• No weapons or ammunition of any kind, including guns, tasers, or pepper spray.
• Hard-sided coolers, including loose or dry ice (reusable ice packs recommended.)
• Hydration packs larger than 9” x 10” x 12”.
• Firearms, ammunition, a knife with a blade over five and one-half inches, lasers, and weapons of any kind, including replicas, facsimiles, toys, and likenesses.
• Fireworks, sparklers, or explosives.
• Smoke or fog machines.
• Aerosol can (except sunscreen.)
• Illegal drug, substance, enriched product, or paraphernalia.
• Drones
• Horns, whistles, megaphones, or artificial noise makers.
• Costume, mask, or face covering not for medical reasons (exceptions for children 10 and under on a case-by-case basis.)
• Alcoholic beverages or glass containers (excluding baby food jars or similar.)
• Pets (ADA-certified service animals are exempt.)
• Skateboards, Hoverboards, roller and inline skates, and shoes installed with wheels.
• Foot or electrically powered scooters, bicycles, tricycles, and unicycles.
• Flags, signs, banners, and balloons.
• Selfie sticks or camera extensions of any kind.
• Audio, video, or camera equipment for commercial use (holders of State Fair Media Credentials are exempt.)
• Collapsible and folding chairs.

• The sale of goods or services, or the display of goods or services, unless prior written approval has been obtained. 

• The distribution or posting of printed or recorded materials of any kind unless prior written approval has been obtained. 

• Engaging with other guests or impeding operations while posing as or portraying any character in costume. 

• Engaging in any unsafe act or other act that may impede the operation of the State Fair of Texas or any part thereof. 

• Unauthorized access or entry into backstage areas or areas designated only for State Fair of Texas personnel. 

• Unauthorized events, speeches, or use of any flag, banner, sign or other material for commercial purposes, or as part of a demonstration. 

• Photography, videotaping or recording of any kind, or otherwise engaging in any activity, for unapproved commercial purposes. 

• Unauthorized solicitations of any kind, whether commercial, religious, educational or otherwise, or conducting any unauthorized commercial activities, including solicitations of money or other contributions or donations. 

• Obstructing sidewalks, entrances, driveways, patios, vestibules, stairways, corridors, halls or landings. 

 We reserve the right to prohibit the use or storage of any other item not listed above that we determine may be harmful or disruptive, in our sole and absolute discretion. 

Rides

The State Fair Midway features more than 70 rides including the iconic 212 ft. Texas Star® Ferris wheel, the Kidway, the 500 ft. Top o’ Texas Tower and the 1914 Dentzel Carousel. In addition, we have the Kidway area, featuring rides suitable for children 2 years of age and older. The State Fair Midway also has a variety of fun games for you to play! Learn more about the Midway. 

Yes! The State Fair of Texas provides a FREE Texas-sized music festival each year with three stages and nearly 100 artists. The Chevrolet Main Stage is an outdoor venue with a huge festival-type stage and experience, as well as an ADA-compliant area for guests needing special assistance. Featuring headlining and regional acts, the Chevrolet Main Stage is located next to the Craft Pavilion, near the Hall of State.    

In addition to the Chevrolet Main Stage, live music can be found across the grounds. The Bud Light Stage, located in the heart of Cotton Bowl Plaza, will showcase local and regional talent all 24 days of the Fair, just steps away from all your fried food favorites. The Yuengling Flight Stage, located outside the GO TEXAN Pavilion, will feature a Friday night comedy series titled “Deep Fried Comedy,” along with live music throughout the week where you can sit back and unwind with a glass of wine or beer. Learn more at BigTex.com/LiveMusic.  

Visit one of our ten Hospitality Centers spread throughout the fairgrounds. View the map for your nearest location.

Hay diez centros de información repartidos por todo el parque. Los amables miembros del Equipo Tex están a su disposición para responder a sus preguntas y ayudarle con mapas y direcciones.

The State Fair of Texas has two guest relations locations. Our first location is located on the Midway, near the Top o’ Texas Tower and Neon Big Tex. The second location is on the far end of the Centennial Building, closest to the Hall of State. See the map for the exact locations.

Los visitantes que tengan preguntas o dudas pueden acudir a una de las dos oficinas de Guest Relations (Servicios para visitantes) del recinto ferial. Guest Relations Centennial está situada en el edificio Centennial, cerca de Big Tex, y cierra a las 9 p.m. Guest Relations Midway está situada cerca de la Top o’ Texas Tower en el Midway, y está abierta hasta el cierre del Midway. Guest Relations Midway también alberga los siguientes servicios: Centro de Seguridad Infantil, Centro de Cuidado del Bebé, y Objetos perdidos.

The Safe Kids Program ensures your little cowboys and cowgirls are safe if they ever get separated from you or the rest of your party at the Fair. Upon arrival, fill out your FREE child’s wristband at any Hospitality Center or guest relations location. We use a wristband system that allows fairgoers, Tex Team members, DPD, and our Safety Team to identify a lost child. Once a child is found and authorities are notified, they are taken to our Safe Kids Corral, located in the Guest Relations Midway Complex across from the Top o’ Texas Tower and Neon Big Tex.  

Los niños que se han separados de sus padres son escoltados por agentes de la policía o miembros del Equipo de Seguridad hasta este centro. Safe Kids Corral (Centro de Seguridad Infantil) tiene miembros del Tex Team que cuidan los niños hasta que los padres los reclaman. Las pulseras de identificación Safe Kids están disponibles en las Casetas de Información de la Feria Estatal.

Yes! If you lose an item you may stop by our Lost and Found, located in the Guest Relations Midway Complex across from the Top O’ Texas Tower and Neon Big Tex. Lost and Found can be contacted by calling (214) 565-2975 or emailing lostandfound@bigtex.com. Due to the seasonal nature of our event, our Lost and Found operates for one additional week after closing day of the State Fair of Texas. We do not retain any of the items past that additional week.

Situado en el área de Guest Relations (Servicio para Visitantes) en el Midway, los asistentes a la feria pueden localizar sus objetos perdidos o entregar los que encuentren en el recinto ferial. Por favor, espere a que los objetos lleguen a la oficina de objetos perdidos.

Yes! Both the Children’s Aquarium and Texas Discovery Gardens are open during the State Fair of Texas. Visit the web pages below for more information.  

Texas Discovery Gardens: https://txdg.org/ 

Children’s Aquarium: https://www.childrensaquarium.com/ 

Additionally, the African American Museum and Hall of State are open to public and FREE with your admission ticket!  Read about each location below and learn more about the featured exhibits during the 2024 State Fair of Texas.  

African American Museum: https://aamdallas.org/ 

Hall of State: https://www.dallashistory.org/about/hall-of-state/ 

The State Fair of Texas is a collection of small businesses. The prices for concessions and rides are determined by the operators and concessionaires without input from the State Fair. Only the prices for parking and admission are set by the Fair.

First Aid Stations are located in the Coliseum and on First Avenue, adjacent to the Children’s Aquarium. If in need of assistance, locate a State Fair employee or call the State Fair Command Center 214-421-8888.  

Los puestos de primeros auxilios se encuentran en el Coliseo y en la Primera Avenida, junto al Acuario de los Niños. Si necesita ayuda, localice a un empleado de la Feria Estatal o llame al 214-421-8818. La policía puede llamar a los paramédicos para que acudan a otras zonas del parque. 

Three Baby Care Centers are available for the convenience of guests. One next to the Children’s Aquarium, one in the Guest Relations Midway Complex near the Top o’ Texas Tower, and one near the Swine Barn and Backyard Steak-Out & Pizzeria. Please see map for exact location. Changing stations are located in all of the women’s restrooms and in the men’s restrooms located in Cattle Barn #1, both sides of the Coliseum, Embarcadero, the Midway, the Perot Museum, east of the Aquarium, 1st & MLK, and MLK & Coliseum. An area is also available in the Oak Farms Children’s Activity Center. Electrical outlets are available in the Baby Care Centers. 

Estos centros de cuidado del bebé de la Feria ofrecen privacidad y un ambiente tranquilo tanto para la madre como para el bebé. Las instalaciones tienen aire acondicionado y están situadas en el centro, en United Ag & Turf Plaza, frente a la Laguna, y en el área de Guest Relations (Servicio para visitantes), en el Midway.

ATMs are located throughout the grounds. Please pick up a Visitor’s Guide as you enter the Fair or from one of our many Hospitality Centers, you can also visit: BigTex.com/Map. Personal checks cannot be cashed on the fairgrounds.

The State Fair of Texas offers sign Interpretation for the hearing impaired. Available Friday through Sunday at select shows. Check the online schedule for more details. 

Weekend/Holiday Show Schedule: Location Sensory-Friendly Mornings Show Schedule: Location 

11 a.m. – Fiestas de Marionetas McDonald’s Amphitheater 11 a.m. – Fiestas de Marionetas McDonald’s Amphitheater  

1:30 p.m. – Creative Arts Cooking Demonstrations: In the Kitchen with Cutco

1 p.m. – Fiestas de Marionetas McDonald’s Amphitheater – Fiestas de Marionetas McDonald’s Amphitheater   

4:30 p.m. – All-Star Stunt Dog Show Marine Corps Square

Se ofrece interpretación en lenguaje de señas para determinados espectáculos. Para más información, visite BigTex.com/schedule.

The State Fair of Texas offers wagons, strollers, wheelchairs and mobility scooters for rent through HomeTown Mobility. Reservations can be made in advance at www.htmia.com or by calling 1-712-938-2029 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, as well as on weekends during the State Fair. A valid driver’s license or state ID is required for all rentals. Per the State Fair of Texas Guest Code of Conduct, Improper or illegal use of motorized scooters or similar items will not be allowed. Dangerous behavior or failure to abide by scooter rules will result in loss of privilege to operate a scooter and subject the offender to possible eviction from the fairgrounds.   

Reservations need to be made at least 24 hours in advance, and cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance to receive a refund, minus a $5 cancellation fee per rental unit. Rental locations are at the Front Gate (Parry Ave.), Grand Ave. (Gate 5), Pennsylvania Pedestrian Entrance (Gate 11), and Pan Am Gate (North side of the fairgrounds). Utilize BigTex.com/Map for more information. 

Rental Prices: 

Scooters $75 per day (8 a.m. – 10 p.m.)
Wheelchairs $30 per day
Single Strollers $20 per day
Double Stroller $25 per day
Wagons $20 per day
Personal Storage Cubical $5 

Wheeled mobility devices with less than 3 wheels or devices that cannot maintain stability and balance when stopped, unpowered, and/or unoccupied are prohibited. Training wheels and/or modifications are not permitted. Devices must be manually or electrically powered and operated at a walking pace. Devices should be single rider and not exceed 36″ (92 cm) in width and 52″ (132 cm) in length.

On every Wednesday of the State Fair of Texas, fairgoers can enjoy Sensory-Friendly Mornings, where there will be adjustments made across the fairgrounds to better accommodate those with sensory-related concerns. In addition, fairgoers will be able to enjoy all the fun of the Midway without the usual lights and sounds from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Please note that the usual lights and sounds of the Midway will return at 1 p.m. There are also a few locations around the grounds designated if needed. Visit BigTex.com/Sensory closer to Opening Day of the Fair for more information.

The Fair invites individuals with autism, their families, and anyone else who may benefit from a sensory-friendly experience to come out and enjoy the great State Fair of Texas on Sensory-Friendly Mornings. See you at the Fair! 

P.S. Wednesday is also the best discount day! Each person who brings five canned food items to donate to North Texas Food Bank will receive $5 admission. 

Ride sharing, and taxi services are to be staged at Haskell to 4206 Gurley Ave Dallas, TX 75223 – drop off and pick up only. While you can use these services at any gate on the fairgrounds, we recommend using the above address, as we find this is the most efficient area to allow for less traffic.

There are two college football games scheduled on Saturdays during the State Fair of Texas: The State Fair Classic between Grambling State University and Prairie View A&M University, and the Allstate Red River Rivalry between University of Oklahoma and University of Texas. A game ticket includes Fair admission on game day. Visit BigTex.com/Football for details about the games or call (469) 945-3247 and press “0” for additional assistance.

Yes, the annual Texas vs. OU football game has been a State Fair of Texas tradition since 1929, and a weekend that people on both sides of the Red River enjoy and look forward to each year. The current agreement between the State Fair of Texas, the City of Dallas, the University of Texas, and the University of Oklahoma runs through 2036. 

Yes, the annual State Fair Classic has been a State Fair of Texas tradition since 1925, and a weekend that people enjoy and look forward to each year. The current agreement between the State Fair of Texas, the City of Dallas, Grambling State University, and Prairie View A&M University runs through 2025.

The State Fair Showdown was played in the historic Cotton Bowl during the 2018 and 2019 State Fair of Texas. The matchup was between Texas Southern University and Southern University.

All Bags, including backpacks. 

Purses that exceed 10” x 10”. 

Medical Bags will be inspected upon entry. 

All weapons of any kind.  

Outside alcoholic beverages of any kind. 

Artificial noisemakers (bells, horns, kazoos, whistles, etc.) 

Banners, flags, flag poles, signs, umbrellas, etc. 

Cameras with detachable lenses greater than 10”. Video cameras and tripods. 

Coolers 

Any explosive or flammable items. 

Outside food and beverages. 

Any items that are deemed a safety hazard or annoyance (balls, balloons, firearms, fireworks, frisbees, glass, hard plastic or metal water bottles, laser pointers, etc.) 

Pets (service dogs permitted). 

Strollers 

Tobacco products of any kind, including e-cigarettes. 

Any type of seat cushions or chair backs. 

Baby seats 

Yes, food and beverages are available for purchase inside Cotton Bowl Stadium on game days. 

Yes! If you have a football ticket for the State Fair Classic or Allstate Red River Rivalry, that ticket will also act as your admission to the Fair on game day. 

All patrons shall comply with sportsmanship principles outlined in NCAA Constitution, Article 1, C and SEC Bylaw, Article 10.

Guest conduct is expected to be of a respectful level prior to, during, and after each competition.

The following conduct is deemed inappropriate: 

• Using racist, sexist, threatening, or inflammatory language. 

• Displaying clothing, signage, or material with profane or abusive language, obscene graphics, or inflammatory reference. 

• Attempting to enter the competition area. 

• Throwing objects, including but not limited to associated paper or plastic concessions service items within the seating areas or onto the field of play.   

• Illegally possessing alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, or smoking. 

• Taking or posting inappropriate photos of student-athletes, cheerleaders, dance team members, band members, or fellow spectators. 

If ejected from the venue for any reason, the guest will not receive a refund, will not be readmitted, and attendance at future athletics events is subject to review.

Guests in violation of federal, state, or city ordinances will be subject to arrest and prosecution. 

Please visit BigTex.com/jobs or contact hr@bigtex.com

Please visit BigTex.com/livestock or contact livestock@bigtex.com.

Please visit BigTex.com/get-involved/commercial-exhibitors/ or contact exhibits@bigtex.com.

Please visit BigTex.com/get-involved/concessions/ or contact concessions@bigtex.com. 

Please visit BigTex.com/get-involved/corporate-sponsorship or contact Leslie Jefferson at ljefferson@bigtex.com.

Please contact lolmstead@bigtex.com