For generations of Texans, a trip to the State Fair of Texas has been a fall tradition like no other. Family photos with Big Tex, a first Fletcher’s Original Corny Dog, afternoons exploring the Midway, and favorite traditions passed from parents to children are all part of what brings families back to the annual 24-day exposition year after year.
For families planning their 2026 visit, there are more ways than ever to experience the Fair while keeping the family budget in mind. From new ticket options and daily discounts to more than 100 attractions included with admission, a little planning can go a long way toward creating a full day of Fair fun.
“Every year, we look for new ways to give families even more flexibility when planning their visit. Whether guests come for the food, the Midway, live entertainment, or Texas traditions, we want families to build the experience that works best for them,” said Karissa Condoianis, SVP of Public Relations.
New everyday kids admission pricing gives families more flexibility in choosing when to visit and makes planning a trip to the Fair easier. Children ages 3 to 12 can visit for just $10 any day of the Fair and children 2 and under are admitted free of charge, meaning families benefit from more flexibility without sacrificing the incredible value and traditions they expect from their visit to the most Texan place on Earth.
Families can find additional ways to save throughout the Fair’s 24-day run, including:
• Opening Day Peanut Butter Drive: Guests who donate two jars of peanut butter on Opening Day receive $10 admission while supporting the North Texas Food Bank.
• Feed the Need Wednesdays: Guests can receive $7 admission by donating five canned food items to the North Texas Food Bank.
• $10 After 5 p.m.: Monday through Thursday, fairgoers – 13 and above – can enjoy an evening at the Fair for $10 after 5 p.m.
• Thrilling Tuesdays: Families can save on select discounted Midway rides throughout the day.
• Thrifty Thursdays: Participating concessionaires offer discounted menu items and smaller portions, giving families an opportunity to sample more foods at lower price points.
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Many North Texas students and teachers also receive complimentary admission through participating school districts, helping introduce millions across the region to one of the state’s longest-running traditions.
(State Fair of Texas) A Full Day is Included with Admission
While Fair food and the Midway are often some of the first things that come to mind when planning a State Fair visit, families can fill much of their day without purchasing any additional items once they are through the gates.
More than 100 attractions and activities are included with admission, including live music and entertainment, livestock events, Creative Arts exhibits, museums, educational experiences, and interactive displays.
Families can watch the Fair’s popular pig races, see Mighty Mike perform feats of strength, explore exhibits celebrating agriculture and Texas culture, catch live music throughout the grounds, or simply take in some of the traditions that have made the Fair a destination for generations.
The GO TEXAN Pavilion also gives guests an opportunity to discover products made throughout the Lone Star State, with complimentary chocolate milk samples available during the 2026 Fair.
“A visit to the State Fair is about more than what happens inside the gates. It’s about celebrating Texas, creating memories with the people you love, and supporting opportunities for people and communities across our state,” Condoianis said. “That’s what makes the State Fair so special. When families choose to spend a day with us, they’re not only taking part in a beloved Texas tradition, but they’re also helping that tradition make an impact across the Lone Star State all year long.”
(State Fair of Texas) Tips for Making the Most of Your Fair Day
A little planning can help families stretch their budget and experience even more during their visit.
• Bring refillable water bottles and snacks. This can help save more of the day’s budget for favorite Fair foods, rides, or games.
• Visit earlier on a weekday. Weekday mornings can mean lighter crowds and more time to explore attractions at a comfortable pace.
• Plan around what’s included with admission. Check the entertainment schedule, exhibits, livestock events, museums, and other included attractions before arriving, then decide where you want to spend extra on food, rides, or games.
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• Pick your must-dos ahead of time. Choosing a few priority foods, rides, or experiences can help families stay on budget without feeling like they have to do everything in one visit.
• Consider Sensory-Friendly Mornings. Wednesdays offer designated Sensory-Friendly Morning hours for guests (10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) who benefit from a quieter and more comfortable Fair environment.
(Kevin Brown / State Fair of Texas) Fair Fun with an Impact Beyond Fair Park
The value of a State Fair visit also extends beyond the family’s day at Fair Park. The State Fair of Texas is a nonprofit organization, and proceeds generated through the Fair help support its year-round mission in areas including education, agriculture, and community involvement.
Through its scholarship program, the Fair helps create educational opportunities for students, while its youth agriculture and livestock programs support young Texans participating in agriculture throughout the state. Community initiatives such as Big Tex Urban Farms work year-round to provide fresh produce to organizations serving the South Dallas and Fair Park communities.
Fair proceeds also contribute to the preservation and improvement of historic Fair Park, helping protect the home of the State Fair for future generations.
(Kevin Brown / State Fair of Texas) “Every admission ticket supports something much bigger than a day at the Fair,” said Condoianis. “For 140 years, the State Fair has existed to celebrate Texas, serve Texans, and create opportunities that extend beyond the gates of Fair Park. Every visit helps make that mission possible.”
Families that spend the day taking photos with Big Tex, exploring livestock barns, listening to live music, trying a new food, or sharing a longtime favorite, simultaneously support community programs and initiatives that benefit Texans across the Lone Star State long after the gates close for the season.
Whether 2026 marks a family’s first trip to Fair Park or another annual visit spanning generation, there are plenty of ways to make the day their own without breaking the family budget
The 2026 State Fair of Texas returns to Fair Park in Dallas September 25 through October 18. Visit BigTex.com to explore ticket options, daily discounts, and attractions included with admission.
(Kevin Brown / State Fair of Texas)
