The gates have swung open at Fair Park, and the unmistakable voice of Big Tex is once again booming across Dallas. The 2025 State Fair of Texas is officially underway, promising three weeks of fried food, football, and Texas-sized fun that draws millions from across the country.
Opening Day Buzz and Parade Spectacle
Opening day kicked off Friday, September 26, with crowds pouring in as early as 10 a.m. The annual parade, a Dallas tradition, rolled through Fair Park at noon, setting the festive tone for the weeks ahead. By evening, the Hall of State steps hosted the opening ceremony, drawing families, foodies, and fair veterans alike for a celebration that’s as much about community as it is about spectacle.
Football Fever: State Fair Classic and Red River Rivalry
No Texas State Fair is complete without its legendary football showdowns. This weekend, the Cotton Bowl hosts the State Fair Classic, pitting Prairie View A&M against Grambling State in a matchup that’s as much about school pride as gridiron glory. But the real frenzy hits October 11, when the Red River Rivalry brings Texas and Oklahoma fans together for one of college football’s most storied clashes.
Deep-Fried Dreams: 2025’s Wildest New Foods
If you think you’ve tasted it all, think again. The State Fair is world-famous for its outrageous culinary creations, and 2025 is no exception. This year’s menu features:
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Aguasol Tequila® Corazon Verde: A refreshing cocktail blending melon and elderflower liqueur, perfect for beating the Texas heat.
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New deep-fried inventions: While the full list is a closely guarded secret until you arrive, expect the usual suspects—deep-fried Oreos, Twinkies, and even fried Coke—alongside brand-new concoctions that push the boundaries of what can (and should) be battered and fried.
Fairgoers can also check out the 2025 New Merch Collection and a host of new shopping vendors, making this year’s fair a shopper’s paradise as well as a foodie’s dream.
Classic Attractions and Fresh Experiences
Beyond the food and football, the fairgrounds are packed with entertainment for all ages:
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Texas Auto Show: The 2026 vehicle lineup is on display, giving car enthusiasts a sneak peek at the future of the auto industry.
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Rides and Shows: From the
$5-million Texas Skyway gondola to BMX bike stunts, dog and pig races, and nightly parades, there’s no shortage of thrills.
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Family Fun: Puppet shows, barnyard exhibits, and story time keep the youngest visitors engaged, while the nightly Illumination Sensation light show dazzles crowds of all ages.
Community Impact and Local Perspectives
While the fair is a beloved tradition, it’s not without controversy. Some local residents have voiced concerns about the impact on surrounding neighborhoods, citing issues like traffic, noise, and temporary business downturns during the fair’s run. Still, for many, the State Fair remains a highlight of the Dallas calendar—a place where memories are made and Texas culture is celebrated in all its quirky glory.
What’s Next for the State Fair of Texas?
The fair runs through October 19, giving visitors plenty of time to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors that make it a Lone Star legend. Whether you’re here for the football, the food, or just to snap a selfie with Big Tex, 2025’s fair promises something unforgettable for everyone.
Pro tip: Don’t miss Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, exclusive Big Tex store promos, and the chance to be among the first to try this year’s wildest new foods.
Sources
1. LIVE: State Fair of Texas Opening Day - YouTube
2. State Fair of Texas - Wikipedia
3. Press Releases | State Fair of Texas
4. A First-Timer's Guide to the Texas State Fair
5. State Fair of Texas: Home
6. Local DFW News Archives - Dallas - 97.9 The Beat
7. New Food | State Fair of Texas
