One of the most anticipated additions to the 2025 State Fair of Texas is the arrival of two thrilling rides on the Midway. The Thunderbird is already being talked about as the tallest portable swing tower in North America, offering fairgoers an unmatched view and a dizzying rush of excitement. Alongside it, the Defender brings a different kind of thrill with a propeller-style design, fast rotations, and a spectacular LED light show that will make night rides especially popular. These rides are expected to become new staples for thrill seekers who return to the fair year after year.
Entertainment has also taken center stage this season with the debut of USA Breakdancers, a high-energy performance group that blends classic 1980s beats with modern dance moves. Their shows promise a lively, nostalgic yet fresh experience that will add a new flavor to the entertainment lineup. Combined with traditional live music and performance offerings throughout Fair Park, this attraction underscores the fair’s ongoing effort to balance tradition with innovation.
Of course, food remains at the heart of the State Fair of Texas, and this year will feature a wide variety of new offerings alongside the beloved classics. While specific new dishes are being discovered daily by visitors, what never changes is the creativity and boldness of the food vendors who use the fair as their stage to experiment with unique flavors and presentations. The food culture at the fair continues to be a major draw, whether people are after fried innovations or timeless Texas staples.
Sports fans have plenty to be excited about as well. The Cotton Bowl within Fair Park will once again serve as the venue for two of the season’s biggest matchups. On Saturday, Prairie View A&M and Grambling State face off in the annual State Fair Classic, bringing together loyal fan bases in a spirited clash. Just a week later, on October 11, the Red River Rivalry returns, pitting the Texas Longhorns against the Oklahoma Sooners in one of college football’s most legendary showdowns. Both events add an electric energy to the fairgrounds and attract attendees who may come as much for the games as for the rides and food.
A key change this year is the implementation of a clear bag policy, aligning with rules often seen at large sporting events. Only clear bags will be permitted for entry, with exceptions made for medical and parenting needs. This new policy is designed to improve safety and streamline security checks, ensuring that guests can enjoy the fair with fewer delays and greater peace of mind. Organizers are encouraging visitors to plan ahead and review the updated entry guidelines before arriving to avoid inconveniences.
The 2025 State Fair of Texas runs through October 19, giving locals and tourists alike three full weeks to experience all that it has to offer. From the adrenaline rush of new rides to the cultural flavor of dance shows, from the culinary adventures across the fairgrounds to the excitement of football at the Cotton Bowl, this year’s fair is shaping up to be one of the most memorable in recent history. With its balance of tradition and innovation, the event continues to honor its legacy while staying relevant to new generations of fairgoers.
Whether you’re drawn in by the food, the music, the games, or simply the sense of community that fills the fairgrounds every fall, the State Fair of Texas remains a one-of-a-kind celebration. Families, sports fans, and thrill seekers will all find something to enjoy, making it a must-attend event on the Dallas calendar.
