Here’s everything you need to know about the State Fair of Texas.
- Sara Vanden Berge
- Sep 24
- 5 min read
Special to Beneath the Surface News
The State Fair of Texas kicks off Friday, Sept. 26, at Fair Park in Dallas with 24 days of fun.
Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s festive lineup!
What’s New and Not to Miss
The State Fair Clásico is an all-new premier international soccer match taking place during the 2025 State Fair of Texas.
Dallas Trinity FC will be facing off against legendary international organization Club América Femenil, bridging two vibrant soccer cultures at Cotton Bowl Stadium on Oct. 18.
This high-profile friendly competition marks a major milestone for both Dallas Trinity FC and the State Fair of Texas, as both continue to grow their presence locally and internationally.
Tickets are available for purchase at www.dallastrinityfc.com/clasico.
Tickets purchased for the State Fair Clásico will include admission to the State Fair of Texas.
Get ready to break it down with USA Breakdancers.
Combining traditional high-energy breakdancing with their signature comedic stylings, you’ll witness an unforgettable fusion of slick moves and laugh-out-loud moments.
Whether they’re spinning on their heads or engaging the crowd with playful antics, this crew brings a unique blend of talent and entertainment that keeps audiences of all ages on their feet.
Also new on the Fringe Stage, Agents Honeymoon and Butterfly are on a mission: save humanity with laughter, one show at a time.
Wearing ridiculous action suits, they perform a spectacular fire juggling act and enlist the help of civilian sleeper agents.
Then, in Operation Grand Finale, they shoot the world’s only bow and plunger high into the sky and catch it atop a giant one-wheeled stealth cycle.
An amazing and hilarious spy-fi experience, Her Majesty’s Secret Circus truly has a license to thrill.
The State Fair of Texas Midway is welcoming two new thrilling rides to the lineup this year.
Introducing the tallest portable swing tower in North America, the Thunderbird!
Towering at over 177 feet tall, the Thunderbird gives riders a thrilling view of the Midway from one of the tallest vantage points on the fairgrounds.
The Thunderbird is located in the Thrillway, just behind Top o’ Texas Tower and riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride.
In addition, the Defender is a spectacular attraction that is sure to grab the attention of fairgoers. This high-impact propeller ride dazzles riders with its fast action movements and LED light show.
The Defender is located in the Thrillway and riders must be at least 55 inches tall to ride.
The Hall of State is one of the most celebrated focal points at Fair Park.
Step into the Hall of State and visit the new home of the fan-favorite, Mundo Latino: Día de los Muertos.
Previously housed in the Women’s Museum, Mundo Latino showcases their awe-inspiring exhibit, “Día de los Muertos,” celebrating the rich history and significance of the Day of the Dead through art installations, shopping opportunities and face painting.
In addition, the Dallas International Coffee Art exhibit presented by Coffee News will be hosted in the Hall of State Gallery, with 20 countries participating in this creative caffeinated gallery.
Making its debut at the 2025 State Fair of Texas, The Black Academy of Arts and Letters will present Jazz at the Fair - a vibrant celebration of jazz featuring exceptional talent, smooth rhythms, and soulful vibes.
Performances will be held Fridays and Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. at the Women’s Museum, and are free with fair admission.
The State Fair’s live music lineup features more than 90 acts across three stages.
The Chevrolet Main Stage will host headlining performances from TLC, Paul Wall, The Band Perry, Hawthorne Heights, Hoobastank and more.
The Bank of Texas Stage will also feature Deep Fried Comedy, live stand-up, on Friday nights at 8 p.m.
New this year is a brand-new live music experience at the Levi’s Denim Club in the Magnolia Beer Garden set to take place each night at 8 p.m.
You can find the complete listing of live music at the Fair
Dust off your boots and join us in the historic Fair Park Coliseum for the return of the State Fair of Texas Rodeo.
Every weekend of the State Fair, Friday through Sunday, witness the best of the best in the ring – whether it’s rounding up cattle as part of the State Fair of Texas Ranch Rodeo or celebrating the variety of culture in rodeo as part of the Mexican Rodeo Fiesta.
Returning for a fourth year, the State Fair of Texas is proud to welcome back the Year-End Finale of the United Professional Rodeo Association (UPRA) to the Fair Park Coliseum this fall as part of the Fair’s rodeo lineup.
What’s Back and Better than Ever
The entertaining World of Magic has been expanded to include even more twists and tricks!
Featuring award-winning illusionists and futuristic elements, this show is sure to captivate people of all ages, “World of Magic” showcases a display of neon lighting, lasers, and even a floating robot!
You won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind magic show at the Oak Farms Theatre in the Creative Arts Building.
Featuring over-the-top spectacular floats, the Drive Like a Texan Starlight Parade will light up the Fair Park skyline.
Created by Kern Studios of New Orleans, this nightly parade wanders through the fairgrounds all 24 nights of the Fair, bringing a colorful assortment of floats, life-size puppets, animated characters in ornate costumes, and more.
This year, two new floats will glide through the fairgrounds, including a new coronation wagon.
Fan Favorites Return
Combining agricultural education with real-world demonstrations, the Majesty of the Horse is back to showcase equine beauty. Join renowned horseman Jerry Diaz and his family for an intimate presentation displaying the majesty and beauty of the horse.
The exhibition includes multiple breeds of horses and showcases their unique color, size, and purpose.
A bender of horseshoes, juggler of bowling balls and sledgehammers, and all-around charmer, strongman Mighty Mike’s funny performance showcases strongman strength techniques dating back to the 1920s and, dare we say, questionable dance routines.
The fan-favorite Showstoppers return to the State Fair of Texas for a fifth year. Giant, State Fair-inspired inflatable characters entertain guests of all ages with their wild antics.
Saddle up for a front-row seat at the Hall of State steps, and you might get roped into being a part of the show.
These are just the highlights of the more than 100 daily activities you and your family receive free access to with admission to the 2025 State Fair of Texas.
Season passes are available for purchase at BigTex.com/Tickets.
The State Fair of Texas always impresses with its mix of culture, music, sports, and entertainment, and this year’s lineup looks even more exciting with new rides, live shows, and international events like the State Fair Clásico. It’s a perfect example of how a festival can bring people together around shared passions, whether that’s food, music, or sports. Speaking of sports, I’ve also found that betting adds a similar thrill to following games, and in Mongolia the most reliable option I’ve used is https://pickem-mongolia.com/review/melbet-app/ because the platform is secure, easy to navigate, and offers both great odds and a smooth mobile experience.