State Fair of Texas

Big Tex is back. 24 days of the State Fair at Fair Park: the midway, the auto show, livestock barns the kids love, the famous fried food, and free entertainment all day once you are inside.

Mom tips: buy tickets online ahead (discounts are usually available), take the DART Green Line straight to Fair Park instead of fighting parking, and go on a weekday if you can. Bring a stroller with storage, refillable water bottles, and sunscreen: shade is scarce on the midway.