The State Fair of Texas is an annual celebration of all things Texan, with big trucks, barbecue food, bull-riding, and fried foods galore. This year, fairgoers can expect a little something extra, with shows, attractions, and food that honor a very special holiday: Hispanic Heritage Month! This Sunday, October 1, offers a full day of activities with concerts on two stages and even a rodeo—all of which are included with your admission to the Fair.
Special Attractions on Sunday, October 1
This Sunday, fairgoers can flock to the Bud Light Stage at Cotton Bowl Plaza to see Mariachi Rosas Divinas, an all-female Mariachi under the direction of Tabitha Barrientos. Founded in Dallas, Texas in 2004, this talented troupe is excited to bring the sounds of Mexico to Fair Park. Performances will take place throughout the day, with shows at 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, and 7:30 p.m.
Over at the historic Fair Park Coliseum, rodeo enthusiasts can find a unique display of equestrian talent that originated in the haciendas of Mexico. The Mexican Rodeo Fiesta will showcase Charro-style rodeo performances starting at 2:00 p.m.
Looking to boogie? Follow the sounds of Norteño music to the Chevrolet Main Stage, where legendary group La Zenda Norteña will be performing their greatest hits starting at 8:30 p.m.
24-Day Attractions
There are also several attractions that run all 24 days of the Fair!
At the Women’s Museum, fairgoers can find Mundo Latino: “Dia de los Muertos”, a celebration of the rich history and significance of the Day of the Dead. Featuring art installations, live music, and face painting, this experience will both entertain visitors and explore the cultural significance of the holiday. This year, the exhibition is open from 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day of the Fair.
Surrounded by lights and beautiful landscaping, ¡Fiestas de Marionetas! features a small village of more than 85 handmade marionettes that come to life to celebrate a fiesta of color, culture, and creativity. Be sure to stick around for a backstage tour and selfies with the puppets! With daily performances at the McDonald’s Amphitheater on First Avenue, it’s a must-see at this year’s Fair! Come by at 11:00 a.m., 1:00, 3:00, and 5:00 p.m. every day, with 6:00 p.m. shows on Friday and Saturday.
At Leonhardt Lagoon, fairgoers can travel back in time with Dinosaurs at the Lagoon: a self-guided dinosaur exhibit in both English and Spanish. It’s a fun and educational exhibit for all ages about dinosaurs in Texas, highlighting the t-rex, brachiosaurus, velociraptor, triceratops, and pterodactyl.
With so many things to choose from, fairgoers of all ages can celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month at this year’s Fair. For more information and to find a complete list of shows, attractions, and more, visit BigTex.com/schedule.