State Fair of Texas
A Grown Up NIGHT OUT at Fair Park
The State Fair of Texas is often remembered as a childhood rite of passage—Big Tex, thrilling rides, fried-food delicacies, and a dazzling midway that seems to stretch forever. However, the State Fair is not just for kids. With live music, local craft beer, wine, and Texas-inspired cocktails, and unforgettable people-watching, the fair provides the perfect setting for a date night or a long-overdue outing with friends.
Consider arriving in late afternoon, when the sun begins to soften and the fairgrounds shift from daytime bustle to a neon-lit spectacle. On the way in, capture an obligatory selfie with Big Tex, then make your way through the grounds with no agenda beyond eating something adventurous, catching a show, and letting the evening unfold. The fair runs until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, with a cutoff entry time of 9 pm, ideal timing for stragglers still wanting to make a night of it.
Live music and big energy
The State Fair experience would not be complete without live music, and the 2026 season will feature free live performances throughout the fair’s 24-day run. The Chevrolet Main Stage brings the biggest concert atmosphere, while additional stages make it easy to stumble upon a new band between food and drink runs and pit stops. The early announced lineup includes Kylie Frey, DJ Trae Ned & Friends, Yolanda Cruz & The Daydreamers, The Coppertones, and Gabby & The Byrds, and more acts are expected as the season approaches.
The musical variety works well for groups with diverse tastes. Country fans can lean into Texas-rooted sounds, while friends in the mood for something different can move from stage to stage without committing to a single concert all night. Check the daily schedule before arriving and choose one must-see performance, then leave room for a little spontaneity.
Toast the fairgrounds
A fair date night deserves more than a lemonade. The Magnolia Beer Garden offers craft beer fans shaded seating and a line-up of fair-exclusive brews. For Texas wine aficionados, The Grove, also known as the State Fair Wine & Beer Garden, serves local craft beer on tap, wine by the glass or bottle, tasting options, and room to settle in between attractions.
For a more relaxed cocktail break, Bluebonnet Roadhouse offers beer, cocktails, wine, and frozen drinks near the Chevrolet Main Stage. Another strong option is Fernie’s Skyway Porch. Here, you can grab a beer or wine-based cocktail and claim a rocking chair for a stellar view of Big Tex from behind the landmark.
Rides, games, and tasty treats
Even big kids should embrace the Midway at some point. Flaunt your competitive side for your date. Then test your nerve on the Thrillway. The Midway offers more than 70 rides, including the iconic 212-foot Texas State Fair Ferris Ferris wheel and 500-foot Top o’ Texas Tower. Both offer fantastic views during the day, but nighttime provides a perspective that shouldn’t be missed.
Be sure to partake on a few fair-food specialities, which go far beyond corndogs and cotton candy. From Texas two-step street tacos to wagyu bacon cheeseburger deviled egg sliders, your taste buds will be amazed at what you find. Just pace yourself—both with coupons and cocktails. With more than 100 attractions, the fair gives you plenty to explore beyond food and rides.
Whether you are planning a playful date night, celebrating with friends, or simply
reliving a Texas tradition on your own terms, the State Fair of Texas delivers an unforgettable night out.
2026 State Fair Quick Facts:
Location:Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave.,
Dallas, TX 75210.
Dates: Friday, Sept. 25 – Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026.
Hours: 10 am – 9 pm Sunday-Thursday.
10 am -10 pm Friday and Saturday.
Last entry is at 9 pm.
Admission: Children ages 3-12 are $10 every day. Children 2 and younger are free. For adults, admission is $10 Monday through Thursday, $20 Friday through Sunday.
Parking: Parking in State Fair lots is $25 per vehicle. Gates open at 9:30 am.
DART option: Ride the Green Line to Fair Park Station near the Parry Avenue entrance or MLK Jr. Station near the MLK Jr. Boulevard entrance.
Rideshare and taxis: Use the designated rideshare pickup and drop-off location at Haskell Avenue and 4206 Gurley Ave. Taxis are available near Pacific and Gurley, outside Gate 1.
Top five attractions for kids:
Explore the Midway with more than 70 attractions and family-friendly classics.
Visit Big Tex, the fair’s famous, 55-foot cowboy mascot.
Visit animal exhibits at the livestock barns, a classic fair experience.
Catch a free show. All performances, demonstrations, and exhibits are included
with admission.
Try a new fair food. With sweet or savory creations, everyone will find something
they love.
