The 2026 State Fair of Texas is turning its 277‑acre grounds into a celebration of the United States’ 250th birthday, offering dozens of free, family‑focused attractions that highlight patriotism, history, and community spirit.
Opening Day ceremony and military flyover
Opening Day kicks off on September 25 at 6:45 p.m. on the Hall of State steps. After the national anthem, a spectacular flyover featuring a B‑52 Stratofortress, two F‑35 Lightning IIs and an A‑10 Thunderbolt II will sweep over the fairgrounds. The display is followed by an oath‑of‑enlistment ceremony for future U.S. Air Force servicemembers, underscoring the fair’s commitment to honoring those who defend our Constitution.
Military displays throughout opening weekend
From Friday, September 25 through Sunday, September 27, an HH‑60 Pave Hawk helicopter and additional military assets will be on static display near the Hall of State, giving visitors a close‑up look at the equipment that protects our nation.
Freedom250 Mobile Education Truck
Parked beside the Craft Pavilion and Little Lone Stars Land for the fair’s full 24‑day run, the Freedom250 Mobile Education Truck offers an immersive, interactive experience for school‑aged children. Exhibits include a wall of American heroes, a timeline of the road to the Constitution, and other hands‑on history lessons designed to inspire the next generation of patriots.
D.A.R. House presents “Revolutionary Women”
The Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.) House introduces a new exhibit titled “Revolutionary Women: The Role of Women and Girls in the American Revolution.” Panels and artifacts highlight the often‑overlooked contributions of women and girls during the fight for independence, and a membership table invites guests to explore their own family’s Revolutionary‑War heritage.
Whitman on Walls – free daily screenings
Broadway Dallas brings “Whitman on Walls!” to the Fair Park Music Hall. Free screenings of Compagnia de’ Colombari’s film feature 50 artists performing Walt Whitman’s poem “Song of Myself,” with select evenings offering live performances by Texas musicians.
“United We Can” creative arts display
The Creative Arts Building showcases a striking new exhibit: hundreds of canned jars, each representing a state, arranged to form a giant American flag. The display is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. throughout the fair.
Live music and military band
More than 100 artists will perform on the fair’s stages. The U.S. Army 1st Cavalry Band headlines the all‑new ZiegenBock® Stage at The Old Mill on Sunday, September 27, with shows at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Honoring veterans
Visitors are encouraged to pay respects at the Texas Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial, located across from the Music Hall. The memorial remains open year‑round.
Discounts for military and first responders
Active‑duty, retired, and veteran military personnel receive a $5 admission discount each day, presented by Chevrolet. First responders—including law‑enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics and other emergency‑service personnel—also receive a $5 discount, presented by The Dallas Morning News. Discounts are verified online through ID.me or at the gate with valid ID.
Plan your visit
Admission includes access to more than 100 daily activities, many of which are free. For a full schedule, visit BigTex.com/Attractions. Season passes and FLEX tickets are available at BigTex.com/Tickets. The fair runs from Friday, September 25 through Sunday, October 18, 2026. Join us for “Stars, Stripes, and Howdies” at the Most Texan Place on Earth®.
Original reporting: Blue Ribbon News (Rockwall) — read the source article.
