DALLAS – The Texas State Fair’s deep-rooted sense of appreciation for those who make the homegrown Dallas event possible have inspired this year’s theme, “Celebrating Texans.”
Since its establishment in 1886, the Fair has been an advocate throughout its 130-years of celebrating all things Texan.
Support of local and statewide neighbors make the event possible each year.
Honoring its past, present, and future Texas neighbors, this year’s theme will further highlight the importance of community within every aspect of the Fair.
More than 100 daily attractions offer a wide variety of entertainment, art, agriculture, history and cuisine, and this year new attractions have been announced.
Just in time for 2017, the new Briscoe Carpenter Livestock Center is a 55,000-square-foot facility that meets the growing needs of the State Fair’s agricultural education programs. The facility will allow more livestock and agriculture activities during the annual event.
“I Spy Texas” is an interactive exhibit housed in the new center for those who want to learn about the significance of agriculture.
Two commemorative exhibits will be open to guests to commemorate the 100th anniversary of America’s entry into World War I. Featured at the Hall of State, “Texas in the First World War” provides an in-depth look into Lone Star State history, exploring the active roles both Texas and the U.S. played throughout the war. Another memorial exhibit, “America and World War I,” showcases a variety of original artifacts gathered from all participating nations during the Great War.
In addition to the exhibits recognizing the 100th anniversary, the Hall of State will present “Drawing Power: The Editorial Art of John Knott.” The exhibit will pay tribute to respected cartoonist, John Knott, who created more than 15,000 pieces throughout his 52-year history working for the Dallas Morning News.
In 2016, the Fair introduced “Big Tex Urban Farms,” an urban garden system that serves as a learning space while providing fresh produce to surrounding communities. Starting with 100 planters in 2016, the farm has grown to 520 planter in 2017. During this year’s fair, some of the planters will be housed in the Errol McKoy Greenhouse on the Midway, where guests can see how the new crops are doing.
Highlighting innovations in urban agriculture, a new exhibit titled “Agriculture in Texas” will make its way to the Science Place building. In collaboration with engineering students from the Hunt Institute at SMU, the Fair is hosting “Evie,” a mobile greenhouse that will serve as another feature of the new exhibit.
One new attraction featuring a floating robot and award-winning illusionists will take place in the Creative Arts building. “World of Magic” will leave people of all ages in awe with their tricks and illusions.
“Texas Discovery Gardens” will showcase a variety of floral arrangements from the Ikebana International Dallas Chapter.
People can also look forward to new food locales appearing this fall. “Gulf Coast Grill” will bring a tropical flair, while “Stiffler’s Mom’s Cookie Factory” will serve up gourmet chocolate chip cookies and milk for dessert. Adding to the sweetness, a new Cotton Candy Stand location will be located in the center of the Tower Building.
Season passes are available now at BigTex.com/seasonpass for only $29.99 with promotional code “statefairSP10.”
The promotion will end June 30.
