Hidden Gems at the State Fair of Texas

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.

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 Central Track: Crossroad of Deep Ellum exhibit that focuses on the importance of blues, jazz, and other musical traditions in developing the African-American community in the area, once called Freedman’s Town.

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.

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.

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 Bowling For Soup, Los Pescadores, Jefferson Starship, Jon Wolfe, Spin Doctors, The Commodores 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.

New for 2024 Cirque du Soleil and Universal Music Group Nashville bring Songblazers, an innovative country-themed show written and directed by Amy Tinkham, to the State Fair of Texas. This dynamic theatrical production pays tribute to the legendary and modern trailblazers of country music.

THE THRILL OF THE RODEO IN FAIR PARK

This isn’t their first rodeo, per say, but it is all-new for the 2024 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.

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!