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 this year?

The State Fair will open daily, September 24 - October 17, 2010.

What about places to stay in Dallas?

Click here for lodging information from our partners.

When will the big games be played in the Cotton Bowl?

Grambling will meet Prairie View on Saturday, September 25, 2010. The date for the annual Red River Rivalry is Saturday, October 2. Texas Tech meets Baylor in the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, October 9. Kickoff times for all game to be announced. Ride DART's Green Line to the Fair and to the game. Please click on links below for the MUST KNOW ride information.

www.DART.org/StateFairClassic
www.DART.org/RedRiverRivalry
www.DART.org/BaylorTexasTech

What about tailgating prior to a game?

The State Fair of Texas does not have a specific parking area reserved for tailgating prior to a game. Tailgating will be allowed on official Fair lots (not in valet parking areas). Parking on official Fair lots are available on a first come, first serve basis. Parking is $15 per space. It is not possible to reserve adjacent spaces in advance or upon arrival. Open flames, tents and protective awnings are not allowed. Traffic flow and pedestrian traffic may not be impeded. Official State Fair lots open at 7a - but may open earlier depending on kickoff time. Overnight parking is not allowed. Information for RV parking.

When is Senior Citizen Day?

Senior Citizen Day is every Thursday during the Fair. Seniors (age 60+) will be admitted free on September 30, 7 & 14. Parking fee applies.

What time does the State Fair of Texas open each day?

Exhibit buildings open at 10 a.m. each day. Exhibit buildings close at 10 p.m. (Friday - Monday) and 9 p.m. (Tuesday - Thursday). Museum hours vary. A couple of gates open as early as 7 a.m. but only the livestock are up and about at that time.

How much is admission?

Admission fees will be announced in 2010 . Most of the shows and attractions are free once you get inside. Seniors (60 & over) and children ages 3 up to 48-inches-tall enter at the reduced price of $11. Admission tickets may be purchased online at bigtex.com. If you are near Kroger during September and October, just step up to a checkout and buy a discounted general admission ticket in advance. Kroger is also the only outlet for the DART/Fair Combo Ticket. Enjoy a day of fun and round trip transportation on DART. There's also a season pass! Oh, don't forget the milk and bread while you're there.

What about parking?

The parking fee on Official State Fair lots during the 2010 State Fair of Texas is $15 per space. All State Fair parking is well lighted and conveniently near pedestrian gates. Valet parking will be offered again this year. Enter the Grand Avenue Gate from Cullum Blvd. (daily) or Parry/Haskell (Saturdays and Sunday) entrances to use this service. Valet parking is $30. Over-the-road buses are charged $45.

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.

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 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.

I have a ticket to the Texas-OU game, Texas Tech-Baylor game, Grambling-Prairie View game and the soccer matches. Do I pay Fair admission when I attend these events?

Your admission to the Fair is included on the day of the game. The parking fee still applies or take the easy way to the game - ride DART.

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.

Is there a parade?

Yes, top off your visit with the 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. Sponsored by StarTex Power.

Still need help? Call 214.565.9931 for even more information.