Introduction
The State Fair of Texas is a spectacle of Midwestern culture. The fairgrounds are home to rides, games and food from around the region—plus shopping, art displays, live music and other entertainment. It’s like a carnival for adults! Here’s everything you need to know before visiting this year:
What’s to Love
It’s easy to get swept up in the energy of this Midwestern celebration. The State Fair of Texas is one of the largest fairs in the world, with more than 2 million visitors annually. It’s also home to some pretty incredible food (deep-fried anything), shopping options that span from handmade crafts to designer labels and even a Ferris wheel that lights up at night like a Christmas tree!
If you’re looking for something other than cotton candy or corn dogs, there are plenty of activities for adults as well: wine tastings at Grapevine Winery; concerts featuring country legends like Willie Nelson & Family; live music performances by local artists like Grupo Fantasma–the list goes on!
But what really makes this festival special? Well…
When to Go
The State Fair of Texas is an annual celebration of Midwestern culture and cuisine that takes place every fall in Dallas. The exact dates vary from year to year, but last year’s were September 28 to October 21.
The best time to visit is during the last few days before the fair closes for the year–this is when most people attend because they want to make sure they get their fill of fried food and rides before it all comes to an end!
Where to Stay
The Fair is in Dallas, which means that there are plenty of hotels to choose from. If you’re looking for something close to the fairgrounds, there are several options within walking distance or a short drive away. If you want something more centrally located in downtown Dallas or another part of town with more restaurants and entertainment options than just State Fair food stands, then those hotels will be ideal as well.
There are also hotels outside of the city limits if you want something more secluded but still close enough for convenience sake; these tend to be pricier than those within city limits because they tend to offer nicer amenities such as pools and fitness centers (and sometimes even spas).
Head to the Fairgrounds
- The State Fair of Texas is located in the heart of Dallas at Fair Park.
- The fairgrounds are open from September 28 to October 21. Hours are 10am to 10pm on weekdays and 11am-11pm on weekends.
- Admission is free!
Plan Your Trip Around Food, Shopping and Music
The State Fair of Texas is a celebration of food, shopping and music. There are so many options to choose from that you could easily spend an entire day exploring the fairgrounds without ever running out of things to do.
- Food: There are more than 200 different food vendors at this year’s State Fair of Texas offering everything from fried Twinkies and funnel cake fries to chicken-on-a-stick and deep-fried Oreos (which were recently named one of America’s best new foods). Some popular favorites include Fried Jell-O shots, Chicken Fried Bacon Tacos and grilled cheese sandwiches made with queso instead of bread! If you’re feeling adventurous or just want something sweet then try out one (or all) these wacky concoctions: Cotton Candy Shake & Fries Combo; Deep Fried Nutella Sandwich; Deep Fried Pickle Chips With Ranch Dressing Dip (this last one may sound gross but trust me–it’s delicious!).
If you’re not sure where to start your culinary journey then check out our guide below for some suggestions based on what kind of experience you’re looking for!
The State Fair of Texas is a spectacle of Midwestern culture.
The State Fair of Texas is a spectacle of Midwestern culture. It’s a celebration of food, shopping, and music that has been held in Dallas since 1886.
The fair is family-friendly; there are many activities for children to enjoy while their parents shop or enjoy the carnival rides. There are also concerts featuring country music artists like Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood performing at this year’s event–something for everyone!
If you’re looking for an excuse to get out of the house this summer but don’t want to deal with crowds at Disneyland or Six Flags Over Texas (or if those places aren’t available), then consider checking out the State Fair of Texas!
Conclusion
The State Fair of Texas is a spectacle of Midwestern culture. It’s a place where you can savor the flavors of Texas and experience the sights, sounds and tastes of the American Midwest.
More Stories
American Dream: An Inside Look at The American Lifestyle
An Inside Look At The Culture Of America
These Are The Most Creative Cities In America: 2014 Edition