DALLAS — The time has finally come! The State Fair of Texas has officially opened its doors and the crowds have begun to pour in on the fairgrounds to taste the selection of fried foods and even win a plushie or two. Here’s a guide to everything you need to know to join in on the fun.
How long is the fair open?
The fair opened its doors on Sept. 27 and will run until Oct. 20, which leaves more than two weeks of fun left.
Parking gates and ticket booths open at 9 a.m. daily. After 5 p.m., all minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Here are the operating hours.
Sundays – Thursdays: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Fridays – Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
How much are tickets?
Ticket prices for the fair depend on a variety of factors such as days, age of purchaser and their profession. Weekdays are usually cheaper.
General admission: $25-$15
Child (ages 3 to 12): $18-$5
Children 2 and younger: Free
Senior (ages 60 and older): $10-$18
Seniors ½ price every Thursday: $5
If you’re looking for a deal, on Wednesdays, if you bring five canned-food items, tickets will only run you $5.
All food items will be donated to the North Texas Food Bank.
Senior Days are every Thursday during the fair with tickets only costing $5.
Every Tuesday and Thursday, you can purchase your admission ticket online for a reduced price of only $10. The catch is only Big Tex Insiders receive the promotion code, so you will need to be sure to sign up.
If you want to enjoy the fair at night, every day after 5 p.m., everyone will pay only kids prices, totaling $5.
How much is parking?
Official State Fair parking lots will cost $30 per space. Organizers say the most convenient parking lot can be reached by entering at Gate 2, which is located at 925 S. Haskell.
For a full list on how to get to the fair via car or train, visit here.
What are coupons?
Coupons are the fairs main source of currency, whether that’s purchasing food, play games or ride the numerous attractions.
Each coupon is valued at $1. Coupons from previous fairs are valid for this year.
Coupons can be purchased online in advance or at booths inside the fair.
What is the bag policy?
Only certain bags are permitted at the fair and all are subject to be searched.
Bags and soft-shell coolers that are 9 inches x 10 inches x 12 inches or smaller.
Medical bags and parenting/child care bags.
When is the football game?
The University of Oklahoma and University of Texas game kicks off at the Cotton Bowl on Oct. 12 at 2:30 p.m.
A game ticket includes fair admission on game day.