The State Fair of Texas returns September 25 through October 18 at Fair Park in Dallas, marking its 140th anniversary while joining the celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The 2026 theme, “Stars, Stripes, and Howdies!”, gives the Texas tradition a patriotic twist, with Big Tex featured in commemorative red, white and blue artwork inspired by vintage wood-block posters.

Big Tex will also step out in style this year with new custom size-96 Lucchese boots. Designed by Aaliyah McNeal and selected from nearly 450 entries in a nationwide contest, the boots incorporate Texas imagery including bluebonnets, longhorns, pecan trees, prickly pears and the Texas Star Ferris wheel.

Food remains a major attraction, with 15 Big Tex Choice Awards finalists offering some decidedly different tastes. Savory contenders include Burger Chop Tater Tacos, Flamin’ Crunch Pizza and Nacho Wings. Sweet selections range from Berry Me in Matcha and Fletcher’s Chocolate Corny Dog to Holy Flan! Buñueloco and a Texas Pecan Praline Cheesecake Cone. New beverage contenders include Tropical Coco Fresca and a Corn Flake Shappé.

The Chevrolet Main Stage will offer free concerts throughout the Fair, beginning with country star Clint Black on opening night. Other performers include Bowling for Soup, Lee Brice, Kansas, Queensrÿche, RaeLynn, Gym Class Heroes and 3OH!3, along with The Last Bandoleros performing a tribute to Tejano legend Emilio Navaira.

Visitors can also explore an expanded mix of local and regional small businesses among approximately 400,000 square feet of shopping and commercial exhibits. Fairgoers are encouraged to consider DART, with the Green Line providing service to Fair Park Station near the main entrance and MLK, Jr. Station near another Fair entrance.  Fair Park is located at  3809 Grand Ave., Dallas.

For more information, visit BigTex.com.