Every fall, Fair Park transforms into the home of The State Fair of Texas, an event that defines the fall season in Dallas. For more than a century, locals and visitors have gathered here for fried food, carnival lights, and the traditions that return year after year. The Cotton Bowl game weekend sets the stage, while weekdays offer a slower pace for families and first-timers.

Whether you go for the rides, the food, or simply the atmosphere, this guide covers everything you’ll need for the 2025 season.

Dates and Hours

The fair runs from September 26 to October 19, 2025. Gates open daily at 10 a.m.

• Sunday–Thursday: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
• Friday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–10 p.m. (last entry at 9 p.m.)

Parking gates and ticket booths open at 9 a.m., so you can arrive early if you want extra time.

Location

State Fair of Texas, Gate 2
925 S. Haskell Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75223

It’s a central spot, but traffic can be heavy. Arrive earlier in the day if you’d like a smoother entry.

Parking

Official lots are $30 per space. You can also use rideshare, which drops off near Gate 1 and often saves time compared to circling for a spot.

Admission

• General admission: $7–$29
• Children (ages 3–12): $7–$24
• Children under 2: Free
• Seniors (60+): $7–$24
• Seniors half price on Thursdays: $7

Season passes range from $52 to $62. They’re worth it if you plan to visit more than twice, since single-day tickets add up quickly.

Admission Discounts

The fair offers several ways to save if you plan ahead.

• Opening Day: Bring two jars of peanut butter and pay $10 at the gate.
• Feed the Need Wednesdays: Donate five canned goods and get $7 admission until 5 p.m. This makes Wednesday afternoons one of the best budget-friendly times to go.
• Senior Days: Every Thursday, seniors 60+ pay $7 at the gate or $9 online.
• Tuesday & Thursday Value Days: Big Tex Insiders receive $12 admission. For the promo code, text BIGTEX to 877-724-4839.
• Pay Child Price after 5 p.m.: Admission drops to $10 for all ages, making evenings both lively and affordable.
• McDonald’s Coupons: Pick one up at participating North Texas locations to save $5.
• Military Appreciation: Active duty, retired, and veterans save $5 with valid ID. Spouses and children under 18 qualify too.
• First Responders: Show a badge or ID to save $5 any day.
• Group Discounts: Groups of 25+ can book in advance for reduced pricing.

Food and Ride Discounts

• Thrilling Tuesdays: Most Midway rides are four coupons, with kiddie rides at three. Families often choose Tuesdays to stretch their budget.
• Thrifty Thursdays: Participating vendors offer smaller portions or discounted prices, which makes it easier to sample a variety of food.

What You Can Bring

The fair allows a few personal items, but with some restrictions.

• Wagons for small children
• Personal food and beverages (alcohol, glass containers, and metal utensils are prohibited)
• Coolers and ice chests, which are checked at entry

Pro Tips

To avoid the biggest crowds, try weekday mornings.

The Texas–OU game happens Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. Expect heavier traffic and longer lines that weekend.

If you want the game-day buzz, arrive early. If you’d rather skip the rush, evenings are calmer and easier to navigate.

Enjoy The State Fair of Texas!