Every fall, the State Fair of Texas draws crowds from across the region, and 2025 promises to be no exception. If you’re in North Denton County (Lantana, Argyle, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Frisco, Celina, etc.), here’s your guide: when to go, what to see, where to eat, and how to make your trip smoother.
Fair Dates, Hours & Admission
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Dates: September 26 through October 19, 2025.
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Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday & Saturday.
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Location: Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX.
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Tickets: Daily adult tickets range from $19 to $29, depending on the day. Children and seniors get discounted rates.
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Bag policy: Only clear bags (9 × 10 × 12 in or smaller) are allowed. Small clutches allowed (4.5 × 6.5 in). Soft-shell coolers of acceptable size permitted.
You can buy your tickets by clicking here!
Must-See Attractions & Events
1. New Rides & Midway Thrills
In 2025, the Fair introduces Thunderbird, the tallest portable swing tower in North America, along with the LED “Defender” propeller ride. The midway continues to feature classic rides, including the Texas Star Ferris wheel, Top O’ Texas tower, and a historic carousel.
2. Big Tex & Iconic Traditions
Don’t miss Big Tex, the 55-ft cowboy statue greeting visitors at the entrance. The Big Tex Choice Awards (for new fair foods) also return this year with tasty innovations.
Click here to see all the delicious food you can enjoy at the fair.
3. Live Concerts (Free with admission)
The 2025 lineup includes big names like TLC, Paul Wall, The Band Perry, Hoobastank, and more. Performances will run across several stages, including a new Levi’s activation at Magnolia.
Click here to see more great performances that will appear at the fair!
4. Rodeo, Exhibits & Sports
This year brings back rodeo events (bull riding, barrel racing, youth rodeo) included with fair admission. A major new addition is the State Fair Clásico soccer match: Dallas Trinity FC vs Club América Femenil at the Cotton Bowl on October 18.
5. Food to Try
Fair food is a highlight, and 2025 does not disappoint. New must-try items include the Birria Ramen Bowl, Meat Lovers Crunch Wrap Calzone, Deep-Fried Carbonara, Dubai Chocolate Dream Sundae, and more. You’ll also see classics like Fletcher’s corny dogs, funnel cakes, giant turkey legs, deep-fried deli tacos, etc.
Check out the must-eat fair foods.
Travel Tips From North Denton County
Early arrival is key:
Traffic into Dallas can get heavy. Aim to arrive before 11 a.m. to beat congestion and secure better parking.
Parking & transit:
Lots open around 9:30 a.m. Gate 2 (925 S. Haskell) is often recommended as a convenient parking point. Alternatively, using DART rail (Green Line to Fair Park station) is a solid option to avoid parking hassles.
Best days to go:
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Weekdays (especially Monday and Thursday) tend to be less crowded.
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Avoid opening on a weekend or the final weekend if possible.
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Mid-week evenings may also host smaller crowds, but still full entertainment schedules.
Plan your highlights:
If there’s a concert, rodeo, or ride you don’t want to miss, check the schedule ahead and build your day around it.
Stay comfortable:
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Wear breathable shoes and clothes
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Bring sunscreen, a hat, and refillable water.
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Use the Fair map (available on the official site) to plan your path and minimize walking back and forth.
Manage food & ride costs:
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Food and rides are paid for via fair coupons or cards; buy them in bulk to save time. Get your coupon tickets here!
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Some “Value Days” (Thursdays, etc.) offer discounts or cheaper food options.
Final Thoughts & Your Local Advantage
The State Fair of Texas 2025 is more than just a trip; it’s a celebration of Texas culture, food, music, and community. For folks in North Denton County, this is your chance to experience one of the region’s greatest fall traditions in just a short drive.
If you want help coordinating a group visit (parking, route, timing), or exploring homes closer to Dallas so big events feel more accessible, I’m here to help make it easy. Let’s chat and maybe even plan a fair-day outing together.
