State Fair of Texas 2026 Unveils New Attractions and Concerts

DALLAS — The State Fair of Texas announced its 2026 lineup Tuesday, promising fairgoers an expanded experience with new thrill rides, culinary offerings, and a star-studded concert series when the gates open September 25 at Fair Park.

This year's fair will feature the debut of "Texas Tornado," a 200-foot-tall spinning ride that fair officials say will be the tallest attraction in the event's 140-year history. The ride will be positioned near the iconic Cotton Bowl Stadium, offering riders panoramic views of the Dallas skyline and Deep Ellum district.

"We're incredibly excited to bring Texans and visitors from around the world something they've never experienced before," said Mitchell Glieber, President and CEO of the State Fair of Texas. "The Texas Tornado represents our commitment to innovation while honoring the traditions that make this fair special."

The fair's Big Tex Choice Awards will showcase 15 new food vendors this year, including several from the Bishop Arts District and Lower Greenville neighborhoods. New offerings include deep-fried breakfast tacos, cotton candy ice cream sandwiches, and what organizers are calling "the world's largest corn dog."

Concert headliners for the 2026 fair include country music superstar Miranda Lambert, hip-hop artist Post Malone, and rock band The Killers. All performances will take place at the newly renovated Chevrolet Main Stage, which received a $2.3 million upgrade during the off-season.

"I've been coming to the State Fair since I was a kid growing up in Lakewood, and every year it gets better," said Maria Rodriguez, a longtime fairgoer and mother of three. "My family looks forward to this all year long. The new ride sounds amazing, but honestly, we're just excited to get back to Fair Park and make more memories."

Fair officials expect increased traffic along Second Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard during the 24-day run. The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) will provide additional Green Line service to Fair Park Station, and organizers recommend visitors use public transportation when possible.

Local businesses are already preparing for the annual economic boost. Faith Auto Glass Dallas reports increased service requests each fall as visitors traveling from across Texas and neighboring states sometimes encounter parking lot mishaps or need windshield repairs before heading home.

"The State Fair brings people from all over, and unfortunately, crowded parking lots sometimes mean minor accidents," said James Thompson, a local auto glass technician. "We always staff up during fair season to help folks get back on the road safely."

Advanced tickets go on sale April 1, with early bird pricing available through June 30. General admission remains $24 for adults and $18 for children and seniors. Season passes and group discounts will also be available.

The State Fair of Texas runs September 25 through October 18, 2026, at Fair Park in South Dallas. For more information about tickets, attractions, and parking, visit BigTex.com.