Hidden Gems at the State Fair of Texas
Whether you're new to the fair or wanting to enhance your fair outing, the State Fair of Texas has plenty of classic experiences and even more thrilling surprises.
The State Fair of Texas is one of the longest running fairs in the nation with 24 consecutive days – and for good reason. There is so much to see and do, including all the unique things that make the State Fair of Texas that much more! Here are some off-the-beaten-path State Fair of Texas sights and experiences you won't want to miss. Start planning your visit to the State Fair of Texas here.
THE BUTTER SCULPTURE
Head to the Creative Arts Building to check out a colossal and imaginative sculpture made from butter. The sculpture is made by a local Texas artist each year and always pays homage to the State Fair of Texas' theme, which changes annually.
![](https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/IMG_3918.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=9a809e126ef195e6865894cb4fe7e7be 320w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/IMG_3918.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=91baf23c15f96bdaba868e4e7356daf9 540w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/IMG_3918.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=9efffb64c62e68151b38bbd6a567a662 768w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/IMG_3918.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=ab1e699bb9adbc7fdd1bd7666e534494 1024w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/IMG_3918.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=39c032389dcd51965106160d7455bbd0 1200w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/IMG_3918.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=9597f4ff4f00dfd6485c642881d94919 1440w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/IMG_3918.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=508b324e5766be6e50dad950c1ee6ddb 1920w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/IMG_3918.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=417e6e1e3b845c025636d18cc94391ea 2560w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/IMG_3918.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=150facfe2a6c078d3c8e26d8f3942f2b 3840w)
AFRICAN AMERICAN ART
During your time at the fair, stop by the African American Museum to see a wide range of African American art – the museum is open daily throughout the fair. The can't-miss collection displays more than 150 shared treasures, including paintings, sculptures, photos, letters, rare books and more that are a celebration of the achievements and contributions of African Americans from the 1500s to today. Check out the ‘If You Look Hard Enough, You Can See Our Future’Selections of Contemporary South African Art' collection from Nando’s Art Collection running until Oct. 22.
LEARN ABOUT AGRICULTURE
Texas has a rich history when it comes to livestock and agriculture, so no trip to the State Fair of Texas is complete without a stop at the barns for a little agricultural education. Livestock exhibitors from across the state showcase various types of barn animals in competition. You can also experience the Livestock Birthing Barn and learn about the incubation process for different breeds.
THE COMPETITION KITCHEN
Got a knack for cooking, or just enjoy competition? Then enter your dish for the Competition Kitchen. There will be various contests to participate in (and win!) throughout the 24 days of the fair. The competitions range from homemade ice cream and baked bread to decorated pumpkins and innovative "fair-like concoctions." Many of the contests are day-of entry only, so come with your prepared dish and register once you arrive. Check out the Celebrity Chef Kitchen season here.
![](https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/18_bigtexcom_640x640_pigraces.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=f0a8bc5c63edfbe942250fd61f239778 320w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/18_bigtexcom_640x640_pigraces.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=c56b6c9d05aea5543226c3d49b7adf0a 540w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/18_bigtexcom_640x640_pigraces.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=aac036418bcaacf97b0c2155b10f2869 640w)
PIG RACES
You won't want to miss this fan-favorite display. The pig races are taking over a new area of the fairgrounds at Chevy Park Plaza. Dressed in fetching racing silks, the wiggly piglets run the course four times a day. Don’t miss this fan favorite!
TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS
Take a break from all the activity to stroll the Texas Discovery Gardens, located near Gate 6 across from the Bandshell. The 7.5-acre garden features beautiful plants and flowers as well as educational exhibits. Don't miss the Snakes of Texas exhibit or the always-popular daily noon Butterfly Release at the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium.
NEW ATTRACTIONS
Looking for an adventure that combines larger-than-life dinosaurs, mind-bending contortionist archery, and the most epic water balloon battle imaginable? Look no further than the State Fair of Texas! They are thrilled to unveil a dazzling array of new and exhilarating shows and attractions this Fall, and the best part is, they're all part of your admission ticket. Dive into the excitement and explore our comprehensive list of shows to plan your ultimate Fair experience.
![](https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/2022_WEB_Attractions_DogShow.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=d7019abcc26bedf029ba94453a915476 320w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/2022_WEB_Attractions_DogShow.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=bc7f970bdcd399382690823b0c8f94df 540w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/2022_WEB_Attractions_DogShow.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=4488241f0dcd706cc9925711d88be368 640w)
ALL-STAR STUNT DOG SHOW
The dog show returns to Marine Corps Square for this year’s Fair with new tricks and treats. Offering the world’s first and original “stunt dog show,” audiences of all ages will be captivated by amazing canine tricks you have to see to believe! The All-Star Stunt Dog Show dogs have performed across the country, including appearances on the Ellen DeGeneres Show and Oprah Winfrey Show. This year, these pups will make even more of a splash, thanks to a brand-new set featuring a splash element!
LIVE MUSIC
With three live music stages showcasing more than 90 acts, the Fair has a concert for everyone. The Chevrolet Main Stage will host headlining performances from Ceelo Green, Bowling For Soup, Craig Morgan, The War & Treaty, Yahritza Y Su Esencia, And more. The Bud Light Stage and Yuengling Stage highlight local and regional acts on the rise. The Yuengling Stage will also feature live stand-up as part of Deep Fried Comedy on Friday nights at 8:00 p.m.
THE THRILL OF THE RODEO IN FAIR PARK
The rodeo is all-new for the 2023 Fair! Home of the 1959 Original National Finals Rodeo, we are proud to bring a rodeo back to the historic Fair Park Coliseum this year – and each rodeo is FREE with your admission ticket to the Fair. From high-energy bull riding to wild cow milking, you won’t want to miss the Rodeo on your visit to the Fair this year.
![](https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/18_bigtexcom_640x640_illumination.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=f901928be033d78b149ba3a844bcfe1e 320w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/18_bigtexcom_640x640_illumination.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=3b0d1be0b7e6f2309bf0e117610bc26e 540w, https://visit-dallas.imgix.net/images/18_bigtexcom_640x640_illumination.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=dd93f9cea4547b48843eea0df5a33469 640w)
MATTRESS FIRM ILLUMINATION SENSATION
Set along a scenic reflecting pool, Mattress Firm Illumination Sensation wows the crowd with dancing waters, fireworks and high-energy pop music with engaging performances by dancers and acrobats. This sensational production of synchronized pyrotechnics and special effects begins nightly at 8 p.m. Show up early to stake out the best vantage points along the Esplanade!
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