Our Guide To Week 2 At the State Fair of Texas
-
Published Oct 3, 2024
October 4th: A Starry Night in Texas
October 4th kicks off a fantastic weekend at the State Fair of Texas, and today is a perfect mix of classic fair activities and must-see shows. Start your day at the Chevrolet Ride & Drive, where you can test drive the newest models. From trucks to electric vehicles, it's an experience that puts you in the driver's seat of the latest in automotive technology.
Don't miss out on the Midway, which offers thrilling rides like the towering Texas Star Ferris Wheel and plenty of carnival games to test your skills. For a break, check out Dinosaurs at the Lagoon-this year's exhibit features 10 life-sized dinosaur replicas and a play area for the kids, combining fun and education.
Come evening, head over to the Chevrolet Main Stage for a live performance by Shakey Graves at 8:30 PM. His blend of blues, rock, and Americana will have you singing and swaying along. Round off your night with the Mattress Firm Illumination Sensation, a spectacular fusion of fireworks, lights, and music, held at the Esplanade at 8 PM. There's also a special Drone Show brought to you by Ford, lighting up the sky above the Cotton Bowl Stadium at 8:20 PM-an event not to be missed!
October 5th: Food, Fun, and Grace Potter
October 5th is a day for foodies and music lovers. Begin by sampling some of the fair's award-winning dishes. Start with a Deep Fried Tabritas or Caramel Macchiato Fritters-there's no shortage of inventive flavors to explore. Be sure to stop by Fernie's Funnel Cake Factory to try a unique spin on this classic fair treat.
Make your way to the African American Museum to explore the exhibit on the historical influence and impact of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Then take the kids to see Professor T. Tex and his dino-wrangler bringing small dinosaurs to life through a fun, interactive show-a hit for families with young children.
In the evening, catch Grace Potter on the Chevrolet Main Stage at 8:30 PM. Her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence make for an unforgettable night of rock and soul. After the concert, stroll along the Kroger Starlight Parade, featuring elaborate floats, life-sized puppets, and animated characters, followed by another showing of the Mattress Firm Illumination Sensation at 8 PM. It's a day full of thrilling activities, perfect for all ages.
October 6th: Sunday Rodeo and Southern Sounds
Sunday, October 6th, brings the classic Texan experience of rodeo right to the heart of Dallas. Make your way to the Fair Park Coliseum for the State Fair Rodeo starting at 2 PM. Expect to see top-notch bull riding, barrel racing, and plenty of exciting action that embodies the spirit of the Lone Star State.
For something more hands-on, head to the Livestock Birthing Barn for a unique opportunity to witness live births of various farm animals-a truly educational experience for kids and adults alike. Families can also enjoy Big Tex's Discovery Farm, where kids can learn all about agriculture through interactive displays, from seeing baby chicks hatch to learning about the journey of food from farm to table.
Music lovers can enjoy the soulful country stylings of Mario Flores live at the Chevrolet Main Stage in the evening. To wind down, visit the Texas Discovery Gardens Biergarten for a relaxing pint of authentic German beer, or enjoy a Deep Fried Birria Bomb from Tony's Taco Shop. The day ends with the Yuengling Flight Stage featuring various artists performing late into the night, creating the perfect Sunday atmosphere at the fair.
October 7th: Artistic Expression and Live Music Galore
October 7th is all about art, magic, and great music. Begin your day with Chainsaw Carving outside the Children's Aquarium, where you'll see raw wood transformed into beautiful sculptures. For a different kind of artistry, visit the Card-struction Exhibit at the Hall of State, featuring Guinness World Record-holder Bryan Berg building Texas icons using nothing but playing cards.
Later in the day, head to the Yuengling Flight Stage for live performances by Sazerac Jazz Band at 5:30 and 8:30 PM. For some unique entertainment, visit the Fringe Stage where Mighty Mike will be performing strongman stunts and comedy routines throughout the day-he's a must-see for those who love a bit of humor with their feats of strength.
In the evening, enjoy a concert from Grace Nova on the Chevrolet Main Stage at 7:30 PM. End your day with a hearty dish like the Pork Belly Ceviche Tamales from Milagro Taco Cantina while enjoying the beautiful Texas night.
October 8th: Jefferson Starship and Family Fun
October 8th offers a blend of thrilling rides and iconic music. Kickstart the day with a spin on the Top O' Texas Tower-the view from this 500-foot observation ride offers an unbeatable perspective of both the fairgrounds and the Dallas skyline.
Families will love the Soap Bubble Circus at Oak Farms Theater, where bubble magic will mesmerize everyone in attendance. Don't miss the charming Fiestas de Marionetas!, a colorful marionette show brought to life by more than 85 handcrafted puppets, celebrating the vibrancy of Hispanic culture. For an educational experience, take the Guided Livestock Tour at the Livestock Barns, where experts share fascinating insights about Texas farming and ranching.
Later, gather at the Chevrolet Main Stage for an evening performance by Jefferson Starship at 8:30 PM. Their iconic hits will have everyone singing along under the Texas sky-a perfect end to an action-packed day.
October 9th: Contortionists, Marionettes, and Country Beats
On October 9th, the entertainment at the fair gets even more exciting. Make your way to the Fringe Stage to catch Sara Twister, a world-renowned contortionist and archer. Her blend of acrobatic skills and comedy is captivating for both kids and adults alike. Her shows run three times today-don't miss the opportunity to see this unique talent in action.
Mid-afternoon, enjoy the rhythmic and humorous Fiestas de Marionetas!, presented by McDonald's at the Amphitheater. It's a joyful, family-friendly show celebrating culture, community, and creativity. If you're seeking something sweet to munch on, try the Churro Crumble Cheesecake from Drizzle Cheesecakes-the perfect treat to enjoy while watching a show.
Wrap up the day at the Yuengling Flight Stage for Paul Slavens at 8 PM. Let the music carry you through the evening, rounding off a day full of artistic experiences.
October 10th: Finale of Fun and Festivities
October 10th is the grand finale of Week 2, and it's filled with thrilling rides, live performances, and plenty of delicious food. Begin by exploring the Midway, where carnival rides offer everything from high-flying thrills to classic carousel charm. Don't forget to stop by the Butter Sculpture exhibit in the Creative Arts Building-an impressive display created entirely out of butter, highlighting this year's fair theme.
In the afternoon, visit the All-Star Stunt Dog Show, where rescue dogs put on an amazing display of agility and tricks, proving they truly are man's best friend. Later, take a stroll through the GO TEXAN Pavilion, sampling products made right here in Texas-everything from artisanal cheeses to homemade salsas.
The highlight of the night is the live performance by The Commodores at 8:30 PM on the Chevrolet Main Stage. Enjoy classic hits like "Easy" and "Brick House" as you dance the night away, celebrating the best of what the State Fair has to offer. End your evening with a ride on the Texas Star Ferris Wheel, offering a beautiful, illuminated view of the fairgrounds, before you grab one last bite from Larry's Bar and Grill-perhaps a Full-Size Funnel Cake or Fried Hostess Twinkie to satisfy your late-night cravings.
October 4th kicks off a fantastic weekend at the State Fair of Texas, and today is a perfect mix of classic fair activities and must-see shows. Start your day at the Chevrolet Ride & Drive, where you can test drive the newest models. From trucks to electric vehicles, it's an experience that puts you in the driver's seat of the latest in automotive technology.
Don't miss out on the Midway, which offers thrilling rides like the towering Texas Star Ferris Wheel and plenty of carnival games to test your skills. For a break, check out Dinosaurs at the Lagoon-this year's exhibit features 10 life-sized dinosaur replicas and a play area for the kids, combining fun and education.
Come evening, head over to the Chevrolet Main Stage for a live performance by Shakey Graves at 8:30 PM. His blend of blues, rock, and Americana will have you singing and swaying along. Round off your night with the Mattress Firm Illumination Sensation, a spectacular fusion of fireworks, lights, and music, held at the Esplanade at 8 PM. There's also a special Drone Show brought to you by Ford, lighting up the sky above the Cotton Bowl Stadium at 8:20 PM-an event not to be missed!
October 5th: Food, Fun, and Grace Potter
October 5th is a day for foodies and music lovers. Begin by sampling some of the fair's award-winning dishes. Start with a Deep Fried Tabritas or Caramel Macchiato Fritters-there's no shortage of inventive flavors to explore. Be sure to stop by Fernie's Funnel Cake Factory to try a unique spin on this classic fair treat.
Make your way to the African American Museum to explore the exhibit on the historical influence and impact of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Then take the kids to see Professor T. Tex and his dino-wrangler bringing small dinosaurs to life through a fun, interactive show-a hit for families with young children.
In the evening, catch Grace Potter on the Chevrolet Main Stage at 8:30 PM. Her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence make for an unforgettable night of rock and soul. After the concert, stroll along the Kroger Starlight Parade, featuring elaborate floats, life-sized puppets, and animated characters, followed by another showing of the Mattress Firm Illumination Sensation at 8 PM. It's a day full of thrilling activities, perfect for all ages.
October 6th: Sunday Rodeo and Southern Sounds
Sunday, October 6th, brings the classic Texan experience of rodeo right to the heart of Dallas. Make your way to the Fair Park Coliseum for the State Fair Rodeo starting at 2 PM. Expect to see top-notch bull riding, barrel racing, and plenty of exciting action that embodies the spirit of the Lone Star State.
For something more hands-on, head to the Livestock Birthing Barn for a unique opportunity to witness live births of various farm animals-a truly educational experience for kids and adults alike. Families can also enjoy Big Tex's Discovery Farm, where kids can learn all about agriculture through interactive displays, from seeing baby chicks hatch to learning about the journey of food from farm to table.
Music lovers can enjoy the soulful country stylings of Mario Flores live at the Chevrolet Main Stage in the evening. To wind down, visit the Texas Discovery Gardens Biergarten for a relaxing pint of authentic German beer, or enjoy a Deep Fried Birria Bomb from Tony's Taco Shop. The day ends with the Yuengling Flight Stage featuring various artists performing late into the night, creating the perfect Sunday atmosphere at the fair.
October 7th: Artistic Expression and Live Music Galore
October 7th is all about art, magic, and great music. Begin your day with Chainsaw Carving outside the Children's Aquarium, where you'll see raw wood transformed into beautiful sculptures. For a different kind of artistry, visit the Card-struction Exhibit at the Hall of State, featuring Guinness World Record-holder Bryan Berg building Texas icons using nothing but playing cards.
Later in the day, head to the Yuengling Flight Stage for live performances by Sazerac Jazz Band at 5:30 and 8:30 PM. For some unique entertainment, visit the Fringe Stage where Mighty Mike will be performing strongman stunts and comedy routines throughout the day-he's a must-see for those who love a bit of humor with their feats of strength.
In the evening, enjoy a concert from Grace Nova on the Chevrolet Main Stage at 7:30 PM. End your day with a hearty dish like the Pork Belly Ceviche Tamales from Milagro Taco Cantina while enjoying the beautiful Texas night.
October 8th: Jefferson Starship and Family Fun
October 8th offers a blend of thrilling rides and iconic music. Kickstart the day with a spin on the Top O' Texas Tower-the view from this 500-foot observation ride offers an unbeatable perspective of both the fairgrounds and the Dallas skyline.
Families will love the Soap Bubble Circus at Oak Farms Theater, where bubble magic will mesmerize everyone in attendance. Don't miss the charming Fiestas de Marionetas!, a colorful marionette show brought to life by more than 85 handcrafted puppets, celebrating the vibrancy of Hispanic culture. For an educational experience, take the Guided Livestock Tour at the Livestock Barns, where experts share fascinating insights about Texas farming and ranching.
Later, gather at the Chevrolet Main Stage for an evening performance by Jefferson Starship at 8:30 PM. Their iconic hits will have everyone singing along under the Texas sky-a perfect end to an action-packed day.
October 9th: Contortionists, Marionettes, and Country Beats
On October 9th, the entertainment at the fair gets even more exciting. Make your way to the Fringe Stage to catch Sara Twister, a world-renowned contortionist and archer. Her blend of acrobatic skills and comedy is captivating for both kids and adults alike. Her shows run three times today-don't miss the opportunity to see this unique talent in action.
Mid-afternoon, enjoy the rhythmic and humorous Fiestas de Marionetas!, presented by McDonald's at the Amphitheater. It's a joyful, family-friendly show celebrating culture, community, and creativity. If you're seeking something sweet to munch on, try the Churro Crumble Cheesecake from Drizzle Cheesecakes-the perfect treat to enjoy while watching a show.
Wrap up the day at the Yuengling Flight Stage for Paul Slavens at 8 PM. Let the music carry you through the evening, rounding off a day full of artistic experiences.
October 10th: Finale of Fun and Festivities
October 10th is the grand finale of Week 2, and it's filled with thrilling rides, live performances, and plenty of delicious food. Begin by exploring the Midway, where carnival rides offer everything from high-flying thrills to classic carousel charm. Don't forget to stop by the Butter Sculpture exhibit in the Creative Arts Building-an impressive display created entirely out of butter, highlighting this year's fair theme.
In the afternoon, visit the All-Star Stunt Dog Show, where rescue dogs put on an amazing display of agility and tricks, proving they truly are man's best friend. Later, take a stroll through the GO TEXAN Pavilion, sampling products made right here in Texas-everything from artisanal cheeses to homemade salsas.
The highlight of the night is the live performance by The Commodores at 8:30 PM on the Chevrolet Main Stage. Enjoy classic hits like "Easy" and "Brick House" as you dance the night away, celebrating the best of what the State Fair has to offer. End your evening with a ride on the Texas Star Ferris Wheel, offering a beautiful, illuminated view of the fairgrounds, before you grab one last bite from Larry's Bar and Grill-perhaps a Full-Size Funnel Cake or Fried Hostess Twinkie to satisfy your late-night cravings.
