Big Tex at the State Fair of Texas

Historic Fair Park, a complex recognized for beautiful landscaping and unique Art Deco architecture, is the site of the annual State Fair of Texas, which has been held every year since 1886 except for times during World War I and World War II. Typically beginning the last Friday in September and ending 24 days later, the State Fair of Texas was founded in Dallas in 1886 by a group of civic leaders who wanted to highlight the young city’s accomplishments and prospects. Since then, the State Fair of Texas consistently has offered visitors a first look at the newest and best products and performances with many national corporations and local businesses participating as sponsors and exhibitors. An iconic symbol since his introduction in 1952, Big Tex is a 55-foot-tall cowboy in Fair Park that “speaks” announcements that promote fair events from his animatronic hinged jaw. Big Tex has served as a cultural ambassador to visitors from a fairground location that serves as a traditional meeting point. Although destroyed by a fire on October 19, 2012, Big Tex was rebuilt and reintroduced for the 2013 fair.

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