DALLAS — Like most large-scale gatherings, the State Fair of Texas canceled its annual event because of the coronavirus pandemic last year. But now that Texas is fully open, the State Fair of Texas is making its comeback this fall beginning Sept. 24 and ending on Oct. 17 in Fair Park.

“This year’s commemorative theme art encompasses the foundation of what the Fair is all about — being together,” said Mitchell Glieber, State Fair of Texas president, in a press release. “None of us could have predicted all that the COVID-19 pandemic would bring with it, but we feel so grateful to carry on the State Fair’s 135-year history and welcome everyone back with a warm, ‘Howdy, Folks!,’ this year. We’re excited to make up for lost time and help families and friends from all walks of life reconnect again, while making new memories to last a lifetime.”

Every year, the fair sees more than 2 million in attendance taking advantage of fun and fellowship. This year, the fair will celebrate its 135-year anniversary with the theme “Howdy, Folks!” as it welcomes fans from not only around the state but also out of town. Organizers pride themselves on having something for everyone to enjoy, whether it’s the Texas-sized auto show, arts and crafts, games, rides, and of course, food. Attendees also come for the music and this year's lineup is already out featuring Austin's very own Black Pumas, Clay Walker, Jack Ingram, Charley Crockett and many others. 

Fairgoers can expect some of the same attractions this year with the addition of new ones including the Country Roundup featuring animatronic and manual puppetry and a vintage carousel style. Organizers also added a vegetable carver to the mix to slice and dice one's fruits and veggies. And for those who missed the World of Birds Show presents: SOAR!, they're in luck. The birds will be returning to do flyovers for the crowds. For Jaime Sternes, the family-friendly environment is what she's looking forward to experiencing once the fair returns. The new mom plans to bring her son Riley along to make first-time memories. 

“I think it will be fun for him, because he’s been cooped up a lot and he hasn’t been able to get out and explore and do things such as that like to go a fair, carnival or anything like that,” Sternes said. “So, I’m excited to take him and see his excitement with everything around him and getting on some rides and stuff.”

Sternes also plans to get her hands on the popular Fletcher's Original Corny Dogs, turkey legs and funnel cakes. She's also keeping the tradition going by trying an item from the Big Tex Choice Awards list. The contest created back in 2005 allows the most unique food creations — fried red velvet cupcake, fried beer and fried peaches and cream to name a few — to be judged and consumed. 

"Whatever is the top popular food, I'm going to have to try that," she said.

According to fair officials, they will follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines in place at the time of the fair along with any state and local requirements. It's unclear if only a certain number of people will be able to attend the fair daily. But, for Sternes, she's ready to get back to a new normal and enjoy all the fair has to offer. 

"I'm not as concerned, because I've been vaccinated," said Sternes. "Of course, I'll still probably have my mask on and try to be safe as possible. But, I am excited to get back out into the groove of things."

Season passes are now on sale at BigTex.com/Tickets. Additional information about ticketing will be available in the coming months as opening day approaches.