Daryl Real

The State Fair of Texas is known for its midway thrills, iconic bites and larger-than-life attractions, but agriculture and livestock remain at the heart of its story. Helping preserve that legacy is Daryl Real, Senior Vice President of Agriculture and Livestock, who helps bring Texas farming and ranching traditions to life for generations of fairgoers.

From livestock shows to agricultural education, Daryl helps connect visitors to the people, animals and traditions that have shaped Texas for generations.

Meet the Midway Maverick helping keep the Fair’s agricultural roots growing strong.

VISIT DALLAS: How did you first get involved with the State Fair of Texas, and how many years have you been part of it now?

Daryl Real: While my first Fair was when I was just 2 months old, I began in my role as VP of Livestock/Agriculture in 2004. This marks my 23rd Fair to serve our mission.

VISIT DALLAS: Tell us about a specific moment with a guest, visitor, or fairgoer that has stuck with you. What happened, and why does it still stand out?

Daryl Real: One of my most memorable moments was from 2025 when we as SFT Staff pooled our donations to purchase a steer from Lynnleigh Read. She was so proud that we selected her steer to purchase in our Youth Livestock Auction, and the support she received for her future. Her and her family’s smile was worth the donation for sure.

VISIT DALLAS: If someone is visiting the State Fair for the very first time, what's the one piece of advice you'd give them?

Daryl Real: To know that the State Fair is a mission driven non profit organization, and to make plans to visit for at least 2 days to be able to see everything there is to offer.

VISIT DALLAS: What's one sight, sound, taste, or moment at the Fair that people really have to experience in person, something no photo or video does justice to?

Daryl Real: There is no way to capture a moment in Big Tex’s Birthing Barn on your phone – you have to experience it in person.

VISIT DALLAS: What's the most underrated part of the Fair, something first-time visitors are likely to miss but really shouldn't?

Daryl Real: A show at Farm & Fork University. Host Trey Hamlett is a host with a witty spark and a wealth of information to share.

After 23 Fairs now, I’ve had the pleasure to watch kids grow and develop from 3rd grade through their senior year, all while building a base of knowledge and life skills that help them become the next generation of leaders in our community.

Daryl Real

VISIT DALLAS: For someone who's never set foot in the livestock barns & stables, what would you say the program actually means, both for the young people involved and for Texas heritage as a whole?

Daryl Real: When the State Fair of Texas began in 1886, it was really a trade show of ideas and quality of livestock to help people improve their agricultural production – the most common industry of the time. Now, Texas 4-H & FFA members still gather to compete with their animal projects, but to further their educational pursuits. The exhibits for the public are now focused on educating farm-removed fairgoers about how agriculture impacts their daily lives.

VISIT DALLAS: Can you tell us the story behind the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction and Scholarship programs, and what they've made possible?

Daryl Real: The BTYLA is focused on rewarding students with a premium for their work ethic and determination exhibited through their animal projects. The funds raised are used to reward those students as well as graduating seniors that apply for scholarships based on their academic achievements, community service, and financial needs.

VISIT DALLAS: What does a Fair day look like for you and your team on the agriculture side?

Daryl Real: We start early. Of the 24 days of the Fair, we start moving in animals 2 days before the Fair making it 26 days of competitive livestock events. Of those 26 days, only 3 of them we don’t rotate a trailer of animals in or out. We constantly bring livestock exhibits in and out to allow for as many different competitions as possible. Many of those move-ins start at 3 or 4 AM to take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures. Each of these rotations culminates with photos at a backdrop for the winners of each of the competitions – altogether, we host 145 contests where we crown a champion winner.

VISIT DALLAS: Why should a visitor who's only ever thought of the Fair as rides and food make time to walk through the livestock barns?

Daryl Real: As a private non-profit mission focused organization, our 24 Fair days serve as our largest annual fundraiser and community program. The greatly celebrated food and fun is what allows us to reward the great people we serve in our community and across Texas. A walk through the barns gives a glimpse at what the fun memories that are created are supporting.

VISIT DALLAS: What's the most rewarding part of watching a young exhibitor grow up through the program, year after year?

Daryl Real: After 23 Fairs now, I’ve had the pleasure to watch kids grow and develop from 3rd grade through their senior year, all while building a base of knowledge and life skills that help them become the next generation of leaders in our community.