The countdown to the State Fair of Texas is officially on, and the energy is as electric as the midway lights. Every fall, Dallas transforms into a playground of fried fantasies and wild culinary experiments, but nothing stirs more excitement than the Big Tex Choice Awards. This competition has become the heartbeat of the fair, where food vendors dream up outrageous creations that are equal parts delicious and daring—and this year’s lineup may just be the boldest yet.
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The State Fair of Texas has unveiled the finalists for the 21st Annual Big Tex Choice Awards, presented by Karbach Brewing Company, introducing a new twist for 2025 with the addition of a dedicated beverage category.
The Big Tex Choice Awards is the Fair’s signature culinary competition, where concessionaires debut original creations. This year, a new “Sippers” category joins the traditional “Savory” and “Sweet” divisions, expanding the number of finalists from the longstanding 10 to 15. Each category now features five finalists, with an additional award for “Most Creative.”
Continue readingFiled under Steven Doyle
The State Fair of Texas, opening on September 27, 2024, is poised to offer an unforgettable experience, blending culinary innovation, thrilling attractions, and a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the heart of Texas.
This year’s fair introduces a remarkable selection of new food items that reflect the diverse flavors of Texas and beyond. Among the standout offerings is the Beso de Angel, a delightful creation inspired by traditional Mexican desserts. This unique dish features a taco base made from a sugary fritter, filled with a family-secret sweet crema, strawberry preserves, and a heavenly whipped cream topping. Finished with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of cajeta, it promises to transport your taste buds to dessert paradise.
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Rodeo Goat honors the State Fair of Texas with a hat tip to the legendary Big Tex. Available through October 17, the “Big Tex” in an over-the-top burger featuring a 44 Farms all beef patty, chicken fried mashed potato cake, bacon, fried onion ring, and chorizo gravy ($13).
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The 55-foot Big Tex is on his way to his roost at the State Fair of Texas just east of the number one Fletcher’s Corny Dog stand in Big Tex Circle. This year Tex’ boots were fashioned by Lucchese Bootmaker and were designed by Big Tex Boot Design Contest winner Jessica Bonilla.
Tex has a long and lustrous history dating back to 1952 in Kerens, Texas. The statue was an idea of Howell Brister, manager of the Chamber of Commerce, to encourage holiday sales in the town, and the “World’s Largest Santa Claus” stood over Colket Avenue for two holiday seasons — drawing press attention from as far away as Iran and Australia.
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The 55-foot-tall cowboy known as Big Tex is getting a brand-new set of threads, just in time for the 2022 State Fair of Texas. Say happy trails to his western shirt with its ‘smile’ pockets and two-toned, scalloped front yoke. Big Tex’s brand-new custom-made shirt by Fort Worth-based clothing brand, Dickies, may have some people wishing upon a star – a Lone Star, that is.
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The State Fair of Texas announced the finalists for the 2022 Big Tex Choice Awards. It’s a competition that brings out the best in fried food.
This year’s theme is Treats of Texas, highlighting the ingenuity of the state fair concessionaires.
Savory
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The final countdown to three of the most coveted food titles in all of Texas begins. The State Fair of Texas is proud to present the 17th Annual Big Tex Choice Awards.
On Sunday, August 29, three winners will be crowned in the categories of: “Best Taste – Savory,” “Best Taste – Sweet,” and “Most Creative.” The competition began in early July with an impressive 43 entries represented by 26 concessionaires. Of those entries, 32 were selected as semi-finalists. Each entry was evaluated on four Fair-food elements: uniqueness, creativity, presentation, and taste.
After some tasty tests and delicious dishes, votes were cast and the results are finally in! Now the top ten finalists must present themselves to a prestigious panel of celebrity judges in hopes of securing one of the top spots. If your favorite entry did not make the final cut, fret not, concessionaires may still choose to introduce their creation at their stand as a new food during this year’s Fair.
Continue readingFiled under Crave, Steven Doyle
