Big Tex answers FAQs

Where is the State Fair of Texas?

Well, that's an important question. The State Fair takes place in Fair Park. It is a 277-acre city park just two miles east of downtown Dallas (Maps & Directions).

When is the State Fair?

Please join us September 28 through October 21, 2012. Gates will open at 10 a.m.

What about places to stay in Dallas?

Click here for lodging information from our partners.

What airport should I use to attend the State Fair in Dallas?

Visitors to Dallas have access to more than 15 airports from award winning international and national airports (DFW and Love Field) to regional and private jet facilities. Love Field is located 13 miles from the Fair while DFW is located 24 miles away (midway between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth). Click here for details regarding the two airports.

When is Senior Citizen Day?
Senior Citizen Day is every Thursday during the Fair. Seniors (age 60+) are admitted free on Thursdays.

How much is admission?

Ticket prices will be announced in mid-April.

What about parking?

Parking is available on official Fair lots. Parking fees will be announced in mid-April.

What about RV overnight parking?

Overnight RV parking is not available.

Is parking available for the disabled?

Yes. Vehicles must have designated license plates or a hangtag to park in these spaces. There's extra demand for these spots on Senior Citizen Days, Saturdays and Sundays. I suggest you arrive early.

Are wheelchairs and strollers available for rental?

Yes. Wheelchairs, electric carts and baby strollers can be rented from an independent concessionaire at two locations in Fair Park - the Pennsylvania pedestrian gate and the corner of Grand and First.  All of the rentals are on a first-come basis, and no advance reservations are accepted. 

Sign interpretation:

Our thanks to Merritt Interpreting Services, LLC. for their support of the State Fair of Texas. 

May I bring...

Thanks for asking. Click here for a convenient list of "bring 'em on" and "must stay home" answers to frequently asked questions.

What are State Fair coupons?

Food, rides, and drinks are purchased with coupons, which are sold for 50 cents each at coupon booths located throughout the grounds. American Express, Visa, Discover, and MasterCard are accepted.

Can I get cash on the fairgrounds?

Yes. ATMs are located throughout the grounds. There is a service charge. Check the map in the State Fair Visitor Guide for locations. You can pick up a Visitor Guide as you enter the Fair or from any of our six Information Booths. Personal checks cannot be cashed on the fairgrounds.

What about the concerts at the Chevrolet Main Stage?

All concerts on the Chevrolet Main Stage are presented free to State Fair patrons. It is standing room only, so come early for a chance to be up-front and close to your favorite stars. The Chevrolet Main Stage is located at the end of International Boulevard (Grand Avenue) near the Hans Mueller Tent. The concerts are designed for "standing" only. A designated area for persons with disabilities is located at the left front stage area.

Are lockers available?

You must plan on winning some of those big stuffed animals on the Midway! Just check and store your items in the Checkroom located in the front of Grand Place. All items must be picked up no later than 9:00 p.m. Cost per item applies.

Are bicycle racks available?

During the Fair, bicycle racks are located inside Gates 5, 6 and 11. First come, first serve basis while supplies last.  Throughout the year, DART offers bike racks at each of the two stations servicing Fair Park (Fair Park at Parry Ave. and Martin Luther King Station).

What about concealed handguns?

A person holding a valid Texas Concealed Handgun License (or valid CHL from a reciprocating state) is permitted to enter onto State Fair property with his/her concealed handgun; provided, however, that CHL holders will not be permitted to carry their concealed handgun inside the Cotton Bowl Stadium, a facility defined under Texas Penal Code 46.035 as "the premises where a high school, collegiate or professional sporting event or interscholastic event is taking place." Note that the Fair does not provide lockers for the storage or checking of weapons for CHL holders, so if you plan to attend a game or event in the Cotton Bowl, please secure your weapon at home or in your vehicle prior to entering the fairgrounds. We want the Fair to be a fun and safe experience.

What about an evening light show?
The State Fair offers a spectacular light shows: Illumination Sensation. Illumination Sensation uses high tech visual effects, fire and pyrotechnics. The show is presented each night at 8 p.m. along the renovated 700-ft. Esplanade reflecting pool and sponsored by our friends at Mattress Firm. Please join us on Friday, September 28, 2012, for the return of Illumination Sensation.

Is there a parade?

Yes, top off your visit with the Reliant Energy Starlight Parade that winds its way through the park each night at 7:15 p.m. Colorful floats, glittering costumes, and giant puppets are featured.

Still need help? Call 214.565.9931 for even more information.