The State Fair of Texas, a longtime nonprofit fixture at Fair Park in Dallas, is reducing both admission and official parking rates for its 2026 season. Organizers said the changes respond to concerns raised by fairgoers about the overall cost of a day at the fair.
New admission pricing
Adult daily admission will be $15 Monday through Thursday and $25 Friday through Sunday, a $2 reduction from the 2025 rates. Seniors 60 and older can attend on Senior Day Thursdays for $7, Monday‑Wednesday for $13, and on weekends for $20. Children ages 3‑12 will pay a flat $10 regardless of the day, while children two and younger enter free. After 5 p.m., adult and senior tickets drop to $10 on weekdays and $20 on weekends.
Parking and discount programs
Official State Fair parking will also be $5 cheaper, now $25 per day. The fair continues several discount initiatives throughout its 24‑day run. On Opening Day, September 25, guests who donate two jars of peanut butter to the North Texas Food Bank receive $10 admission. “Feed the Need” Wednesdays offer $7 admission to patrons who bring five canned food items, and seniors can receive $7 admission every Thursday.
Active‑duty and retired military members, veterans, first responders, and eligible law‑enforcement personnel can obtain $5 off admission with valid ID. Participating McDonald’s locations will distribute coupons for $5 off adult tickets. Big Tex Insiders may purchase $12 admission online on Tuesdays and Thursdays using a promotional code. Free admission opportunities also exist for students and teachers through participating school districts and other programs.
Season passes and overall impact
Visitors planning multiple trips can buy a digital season pass for $52, granting one admission per day for the fair’s duration. A commemorative hard‑card season pass costs $60 at the gate or $62 online and includes additional benefits.
State Fair officials emphasized that the lower prices will not diminish attractions or traditions. “Providing greater value does not mean compromising the State Fair experience,” said Mitchell Glieber, president of the State Fair of Texas. The organization highlighted its nonprofit mission, noting that revenue supports scholarships, agricultural education, youth programs, and community initiatives. Since launching its Community Affairs program in 2016, the fair has invested nearly $8 million in local and statewide projects.
Dates and theme
The 2026 State Fair of Texas runs from September 25 through October 18. This year’s theme, “Stars, Stripes, and Howdies,” celebrates patriotism and Texas hospitality. Advance daily tickets go on sale online September 1, though online prices include processing fees that may make gate prices cheaper.
By lowering costs and expanding discount options, the State Fair aims to make the beloved annual event more accessible for families, seniors, service members, and the broader Dallas community while continuing to fund the educational and charitable programs that have become a hallmark of the fair’s legacy.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
