Can I bring any weapons into the Fair?
The State Fair of Texas prohibits fairgoers from carrying all firearms, knives (other than small pocketknives), 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.
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.
Can someone with a License to Carry (LTC) bring a firearm to the Fair?
No. Firearms are prohibited for fairgoers, including individuals with a License to Carry (LTC). This policy applies to both concealed and open carry anywhere on the fairgrounds, including Cotton Bowl Stadium.
Can a licensed peace officer bring a firearm to the Fair?
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.
How is the weapons policy enforced?
The State Fair works closely with its law enforcement and private security partners to enforce its weapons policy. Security team members receive training on Fair policies, and OPENGATE®, a weapons detection system designed to screen guests and their belongings, is used as part of the overall security screening process at every entry gate.
All guests are subject to security screening upon entry. Visit the Screening section for additional information about what to expect when entering the Fair.
Why does the State Fair prohibit weapons?
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.
How can I stay safe while visiting the Fair?
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.