The North Texas event of the year is back! Celebrating over 130 years as the nation’s longest-running fair, the 2026 State Fair of Texas brings 24 days of unmatched excitement to Dallas’s Fair Park from September 25 to October 18. Under this year’s theme, “Stars, Stripes and Howdies,” get ready for a packed schedule of legendary food, live music, and family fun.
Here is your guide to the 2026 season.
2026 Dates & Reduced Ticket Prices
Organizers have officially lowered admission costs across the board to make the fair more affordable for families this year. Daily tickets can be purchased on the official website, here’s the breakdown:
- Adults: $15 on weekdays and $25 on weekends (Evening admission after 5 PM is $10/$20).
- Children (Ages 3–12): $10 every day.
- Seniors (60+): $13 weekdays, dropping to just $7 on Senior Day Thursdays.
- Season Passes: $52 for a Digital Pass or $62 for a Commemorative Hard Card.
Midway Thrills & Family Attractions
While the rodeo events are officially paused for 2026 to help lower overall costs, the enormous carnival Midway returns with a 17% average price drop on rides!
- Experience over 70 rides, including the historic 1914 Dentzel Carousel, the 212-foot Texas Star Ferris wheel, and the 500-foot Top O’Texas Tower.
- Younger fairgoers can explore the pint-sized rides at the Kidway and the all-new Little Lone Stars Land.
- Enjoy daily family entertainment like the Mattress Firm Illumination Sensation fireworks, the Stunt Dog Show, and the famous Butter Sculpture in the Creative Arts Building.
Iconic Fair Food & Cotton Bowl Sports
Come hungry to taste everything from classic giant turkey legs to the 2026 Big Tex Choice Award winners, including the savory Crab & Mozzarella Arancini and the sweet Chill & Thrill Delight.
On Saturdays, the action moves to the Cotton Bowl. Fans can purchase separate tickets for legendary football matchups, including the State Fair Classic, the massive Red River Rivalry (Oklahoma vs. Texas), and the State Fair Clasico women’s soccer match.
Free Live Concerts
Your general admission ticket includes free access to a massive lineup of live music.
- Opening Night: Country star Clint Black kicks off the Chevrolet Main Stage on September 25.
- 2026 Headliners: Catch Bowling for Soup, Lee Brice, Kansas, Queensrÿche, RaeLynn, Gym Class Heroes, 3OH!3, The Toadies, and Paul Wall.
- Resident Artist: Enjoy performances by renowned jazz musician Ken Ebo throughout the Fair’s 24-day run.
