As you know everything is BIGGER in Texas, including the number of competitions we have in our Creative Arts department. This fairgoer favorite attraction is the perfect spot for folks of all ages to admire your Texas-sized creativity! Don’t let the lengthy category list fool you, participating in Arts & Crafts (pre-Fair) contests is as easy as eating a Corny Dog on Opening Day of the State Fair! All you have to do is choose your contest department, register online, and let the artistry begin
Choose your Contest
Arts & Crafts (pre-Fair) contests are categorized into departments as seen below. If you need more information about the numerous categories we have within each department, download the Creative Arts handbook.
Contest Departments
Dept. A: Fine Art
Dept. B: Ceramics and Hand-Painted China
Dept. C: Designer Craftsman
Dept. D: Dolls
Dept. E: Canning
Dept. F: Hobby Collections
Dept. G: Holiday Corner
Dept. H: Needlepoint, Crewel, and Counted Cross Stitch
Dept. I: Needlework and Sewing
Dept. J: Afghans, Rugs, Quilts, and Bedspreads
Dept. K: Photography
Dept. L: Scale Models
Dept. M: Glue-A-Shoe
Dept. N: The Great Pumpkin Challenge
Dept. O: Butter Sculpture
Download the Handbook
Once you’ve decided which department is the blue-ribbon fit for you, take a glance at the Creative Arts handbook online. The Handbook covers all the categories, rules, and guidelines you need to know about your Arts & Crafts (pre-Fair) contest. In your department, locate the specific category you want to enter then determine the class number, you’ll need this information when you register.
Register Online
Though you are not required to register online, getting it done early will ensure you don’t end up missing the deadline – not to mention it helps us get ready for entry take-in day. Online registration is not yet available, but it is right around the corner! Join our mailing list and we’ll notify you when it’s open.
Get Creative
It’s time to get creative and let those designs and ideas come to life. Have FUN, share your experience with us on social media @StateFairofTX or #BigTex, and be sure to send your entry in by Monday, July 26, or hand deliver your entry to the Creative Arts building on August 6, 7, or 8.
For more information on Creative Arts Contests or blogs on how to enter,
visit our Creative Arts 101 page or sign-up for our Creative Texans Newsletter.