The final week of the State Fair of Texas carries a special kind of magic. There’s the smell of funnel cakes, Fletcher’s Corny Dogs, and smoky barbecue in the crisp autumn air, all blending with the distant hum of the Ferris wheel and the laughter echoing from the midway. It’s a bittersweet mix of excitement and nostalgia—your last chance to soak it all in before Big Tex waves goodbye for another year.
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The State Fair of Texas at Fair Park is a Dallas tradition packed with rides, live music, quirky contests, and—most famously—delicious fair food. While some fried creations can get expensive, there are plenty of affordable ways to enjoy the culinary side of the Fair without blowing your budget.
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by Carla Simons
The 2025 State Fair of Texas, held from September 26 to October 19, drew crowds from across the state, eager to soak up the sights, sounds, and energy of one of Texas’ most iconic events. Families strolled through the fairgrounds, live music filled the air, and colorful exhibits captured the imagination of visitors young and old. From thrilling rides to hands-on displays, there was a sense of excitement around every corner, and the fair had something for everyone, whether you were an auto enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply there to enjoy a day out in the Texas sun.
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Rodeo Goat is tipping its hat to one of Texas’ biggest traditions—the State Fair of Texas—by rolling out a burger as bold as Big Tex himself. Now through October 15, guests can sink their teeth into The BIG TEX, an indulgent creation that lives up to its name. Built on a juicy 44 Farms all-beef patty, the burger stacks on a chicken-fried mashed potato cake, crisp bacon, a golden fried onion ring, and a rich pour of smoky chorizo gravy. At $13.99, it’s the kind of hearty, larger-than-life flavor mashup that feels right at home in a state known for doing everything bigger.
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The 2025 State Fair of Texas is gearing up to be one of the biggest, boldest, and most indulgent yet. With the theme “Texas Shines Bright,” the fair promises to mix tradition with a healthy dose of over-the-top fun. Big Tex is standing tall as always, seemingly ready to judge every fried concoction, from classic corn dogs to deep-fried desserts that could easily double as workout weights. The Big Tex Choice Awards return, with categories ranging from savory to downright adventurous, and new vendors are stepping up with inventive flavors, sparkling drinks, and treats that push the limits of what you can and should deep-fry.
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The most anticipated tasting event of the year has arrived: the 21st Annual Big Tex® Choice Awards, presented by Karbach Brewing Company, showcased the state’s most inventive and mouthwatering Fair foods. After sampling and evaluating fifteen standout creations, the all-star panel of judges finalized their selections, honoring the dishes that pushed the boundaries of flavor, creativity, and sheer indulgence. The winners reflect both technical skill and imaginative twists, delivering bites that will linger in memory long after the Fair ends.
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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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Fletcher’s Original Corny Dogs is a name that resonates far beyond the gates of Fair Park. Born in 1942 at the State Fair of Texas, this Dallas institution began with a simple but brilliant idea: wrap a hot dog in cornmeal batter and fry it to golden perfection. Brothers Neil and Carl Fletcher, former vaudeville performers turned food innovators, spent nearly a decade perfecting the concept. When they finally debuted it to fairgoers, the reception was immediate and intense. Few could resist the combination of crisp batter and juicy hot dog, served on a stick—portable, affordable, and unforgettable. The corny dog, as they called it, quickly became a Texas staple.
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