Dallas families can look forward to fresh excitement at the State Fair of Texas this year. While the fair’s classic fried foods, midway games and the iconic Texas Star Ferris wheel remain, 2026 brings a slate of new attractions designed to draw both longtime fans and first‑time visitors.
Two New Rides on the Midway
The midway now hosts 78 rides, including two brand‑new additions. Senior Vice President of Midway Operations Rusty Fitzgerald describes the ‘Thor’ as “the only ride of its kind in the United States,” noting that it will flip riders upside down multiple times for a high‑octane experience. The second addition, the ‘Impact’, cost $1.8 million to build. Fitzgerald calls it a family ride because it does not turn riders upside down; instead, it bounces and sways, offering a gentler thrill that still feels adventurous.
Creative New Foods
Food vendors are also stepping up their game. Smokey John’s, a 48‑year‑old fair staple, introduces the Twinkle Twinkle Brisket Star, a hollowed‑out Twinkie stuffed with slow‑smoked brisket, cream cheese and sautéed jalapeños. Co‑owner Juan Reaves explains the preparation: “We batter it, roll it in panko, fry it, drizzle raspberry chipotle sauce for a little heat, then top it with bacon and garnish with jalapeños.” The result is a sweet‑savory mash‑up that aims to satisfy both dessert lovers and meat enthusiasts.
DJ Gay, operating under the name Thee Kitchen Beast, is targeting younger fairgoers with a vegetable‑focused offering. He recounts a recent encounter: “This little boy, he was turning 10, and he told his parents ‘I want to go to the fair and eat the broccoli.’ Very surprising.” Gay’s fried‑broccoli dish is intended to make veggies appealing to kids while keeping the fair’s indulgent vibe.
‘Texas in the Saddle’ Equestrian Show
Adding a cultural and patriotic dimension, the fair debuts the free ‘Texas in the Saddle’ show inside Pan Am Arena. The program showcases the beauty and skill of horses, featuring tricks and a tribute to the armed forces. Fifth‑generation horseman Nicholas Diaz rides Falcor, a first‑time performer, and remarks, “America’s celebrating its 250th anniversary. The national anthem always moves me because it symbolizes what people have sacrificed for this country.” Attendees can also view the herd up close at the accompanying ‘Beyond the Saddle’ exhibit.
Why These Additions Matter
For Dallas residents, the new rides, food items and equestrian show reinforce the fair’s role as a family‑friendly gathering that celebrates Texas heritage while embracing fresh ideas. The additions reflect a broader trend of fairs across the state expanding their offerings to attract younger audiences and keep longtime patrons engaged. By blending high‑thrill attractions with inventive culinary twists and a nod to Texas history, the 2026 State Fair of Texas aims to deliver a memorable experience for all ages.
Visitors can explore the new attractions throughout the fair’s run, which continues to serve as a cornerstone of Dallas’s cultural calendar each autumn.
Original reporting: KXII News 12 (Gray) — read the source article.
