The State Fair of Texas: A Celebration of Joy, Tradition, and Community
Every year, the State Fair of Texas transforms Fair Park into a vibrant tapestry of laughter, excitement, and community spirit. Spanning 277 acres, this beloved event is not just a fair; it’s a cherished tradition that draws visitors from all over the state and beyond. However, organizing one of the largest fairs in the country is no small feat. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of hundreds, led by an experienced 11-person leadership team, works tirelessly to ensure that every detail is perfect.
A Leadership Team Rooted in Tradition
The leadership team at the State Fair of Texas is a group of seasoned professionals, each with at least a decade of experience in their respective fields. Their expertise spans agriculture, livestock, concessions, fair operations, branding, public relations, and midway management. Many of these individuals grew up attending the fair themselves and now share the experience with their own children, creating a generational bond that enriches the fair’s atmosphere.
Attractions Galore: Where to Start
With dozens of attractions, live shows, and a staggering array of food options—36 new culinary delights introduced this year alone—visitors might find it overwhelming to decide where to begin their adventure. To help navigate the excitement, we turned to the fair’s leadership team for their top recommendations on activities that should not be missed.
Midway Magic: Rides and Games
Rusty Fitzgerald, the senior vice president of Midway Operations, has been a part of the fair since 2001. He emphasizes the importance of the “Kidway” section, where children can enjoy games marked with “All Kids Win” signs, ensuring that every child leaves with a prize. For thrill-seekers, Fitzgerald highlights two new rides: The Kraken and the Hiphop.
“The Kraken is a pendulum ride that spins you around and swings you up almost 180 feet in the air,” Fitzgerald explains. “It holds about 20 people at a time and is quite an exciting piece.” The Hiphop, on the other hand, offers a unique experience as it spins riders like records on a turntable, providing a dizzying thrill for 16 passengers.
Other popular attractions include the Texas Star Ferris wheel, the aerial tramway known as the Texas Skyway, and the small rollercoaster called the Love Bug. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Fitzgerald recommends the Slingshot, which catapults riders 150 feet into the air, going from zero to 80 mph in just a few seconds.
Entertainment Extravaganza
Jason Hayes, the senior vice president of Brand Experience, has been with the fair for 17 years and is excited about this year’s entertainment lineup. He encourages visitors to catch the new Cirque du Soleil show, “Song Blazers,” and the return of card stacker Bryan Berg, who will create stunning structures using playing cards.
“Berg’s unique skill set allows him to build over-the-top architectural structures that have won Guinness World Records,” Hayes shares. “He’ll be constructing iconic Texas landmarks, from skyscrapers in downtown Dallas to the Texas State Capitol in Austin.”
In addition to these highlights, the fair offers a variety of entertainment options, including headliner concerts, local favorites like Mighty Mike the strongman, and even pig races and dog shows. One of the must-see events this year is the drone show, featuring over 1,500 drones, which will light up the sky following the Illumination Sensation.
A Perfect Day at the Fair
For those looking to plan the perfect day at the fair, Senior Vice President of Public Relations Karissa Condoianis suggests starting with a photo opportunity with Big Tex, the fair’s iconic mascot. After that, she recommends indulging in a classic corny dog from Fletcher’s, a staple of the fair experience.
“Choose your own adventure while you’re here,” Condoianis advises. “Whether it’s visiting the camels at the petting zoo or witnessing the miracle of life at Big Tex’s birthing barn, there are hundreds of activities included with your admission.”
A Culinary Journey
The State Fair of Texas is also renowned for its food, with a plethora of options that cater to every palate. From deep-fried delicacies to gourmet creations, the fair is a food lover’s paradise. Each year, vendors compete for the coveted Big Tex Choice Awards, showcasing the most innovative and delicious offerings. With 36 new food items introduced this year, there’s always something new to try.
Conclusion
The State Fair of Texas is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and joy. With its rich history, diverse attractions, and dedicated team, the fair continues to be a highlight of the year for many families and friends. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or someone looking to create lasting memories, the State Fair of Texas promises an unforgettable experience. For more information about this year’s fair, visit the official State Fair of Texas website.