DALLAS — For years, the State Fair of Texas has been the stage for food connoisseurs to share their experimental meal concoctions from savory items to sweet treats. Aug. 28 will be the 18th Annual Big Tex® Choice Awards and its top finalists have been announced.

Every year, State Fair concessionaires stray out of the box to create fried dishes and sugary goodies to compete as finalists. Last year’s winners were a deep fried gumbo ball dish, and a dessert called “The Armadillo.”

The 2021 savory and sweet dish winners. On the left are deep fried gumbo balls and on the right is "The Armadillo." (State Fair of Texas)

A panel of judges will taste test the food and vote for the “Best Taste – Savory,” “Best Taste – Sweet” and “Most Creative” out of the 10 finalists. 

The competition will be livestreamed on the State Fair of Texas’ website, Facebook, Twitter and Youtube Channels.

Tickets can be purchased here on Sep. 12; however, general admission doesn't open until Sep. 12. Premium tickets are available to buy now and for a great deal at that.