State Fair of Texas 2024 Guide
The 2024 Texas State Fair kicks off September 25th in Dallas, Texas. The Texas State Fair has a rich history and for the past 5 years has been the biggest state fair in North America with a 2019 general attendance of 2.8 million people. The 2024 State Fair of Texas offers a very wide variety of rides, shows, games, and activities so if you’re just going for just one day it may be difficult to see every attraction. So we put together a top 10 list to help you out!
10. Takes photos in front of the Big Tex statue
Almost impossible to miss, the new and improved Big Tex statue was revealed in 2013 after the previous statue of 60 years burnt down in an accident. Now standing 55 feet tall and looking bigger and brighter then ever the new Big Tex definitely offers up some Instagram worthy photo opportunities (selfie stick ban in effect).
9. Test your luck and bravery on the midway
The 2024 State Fair of Texas Midway will offer over 70 rides for both adults and children. The 212 ft. Ferris wheel towers over the grounds and is a great way to see a beautiful night view of the grounds at night or just conquer your fear of heights.
There are also dozens of midway games you can test your luck on with a variety of prizes. Although, it may cost you more than expected to get your date that prize teddy bear!
8. Walk with the starlight parade through the park
Every evening at 7:15 pm, over 15 glowing floats parade through the park showcases scenes of Texas State Fair history. The parade also features the Shriner’s band, historic wagons, stilt walkers, and a variety of characters.
The parade begins near the Children’s Aquarium and makes it’s way down Big & Bright Boulevard, turns right on Grand Avenue passing Big Tex, continues onto International Boulevard, and makes a final right turn onto Nimitz Drive.
7. Enjoy the Illumination Sensation show
After your down walking with the starlight parade make your way over to the 700ft long reflecting pool that is the Fair Park Esplanade for 8 pm. The Mattress Firm has sponsored an amazing display of light, pyrotechnic and water show set to the music of Texas heritage and American Pride. The closest thing to the fountains of the Bellagio hotel without going all the way to Vegas!
6. Watch Celebrity Chef’s cook their favorite dishes
Want to eat free gourmet food and impress your significant other next time you prepare a home-cooked meal? Participate and take notes as you watch local celebrity chefs prepare their favorite dishes while answering questions from the audience. The best part is that when a dish is ready everyone in the audience gets to sample the creation. There are 4 Celebrity Kitchen shows daily located in the Creative Arts building.
5. Grab a few pints in the beer garden
The Magnolia Beer Garden located in the courtyard of the historic Magnolia Lounge is a hidden gem of the grounds and a great place to relax and enjoy a variety of pints of ice-cold beer. A selection of local Texas, American Craft, and International beers are available on tap. Get out of the sun for a bit and build up enough liquid courage to conquer that midway rides your nervous about getting on.
4. Drive one of the new 2024 Chevrolet vehicles
Chevrolet has setup a driving course on the grounds where you can test-drive all their 2024 vehicles. Test drive their 2024 Corvette and Camaro sports cars or test your driving skills over the rugged terrain course in a 2024 Silverado. We recommend you check this out before you hit the beer gardens!
3. Shop till you drop
The Texas State fairgrounds has 15 dedicated shopping locations dispersed around the park. Hundreds of vendors will be showcasing their art, cookware, apparel, tools, and gadgets. Retailers and exhibitors are all offering up some sort of discount or promotion during the state fair so take advantage of the savings. Pro tip: make your purchases later in the day so you don’t have to carry bags around with you.
2. Check out the huge Auto Show
The 2015 Texas State Fair will hold host to the largest new car auto show in the southwest. In the market for a new car in the near future? This is the perfect opportunity to check out over 400 of the latest car, truck, and SUV models from leading brands in a fun, family-friendly setting. The auto show is split up into 3 buildings; Domestic brands, import brands, and a truck zone. Sit in some of your favorite cars and take in the interactive entertainment booths.
1. Nightly Main Stage Musical Performances
Free nightly concerts on the Chevrolet main stage are included in the price of admission. The Texas State Fair 2015 mainstage concert lineup features a number of talented country, pop and rock musicians such as Craig Wayne Boyd, Lecrae, Lyfe Jennings, and Emilio to name a few. All the main stage shows are included in the price of admission. View the Full 2024 Concert Lineup