Why the Allure of Texas's State Fair Will Never Die
On October 18 the State Fair of Texas closed its gates for the 129th year. It was the most popular in its history; ticket sales were up 10 million from last year. So how does something as old school as a state fair keep drawing in the masses? A combination of deep-seated nostalgia, community pride, and, well, corn dogs.
Mariah Tyler is a digital photo editor at Travel+Leisure. You can follow her on Instagram at @mphbox.
Esplanade Fountain
Fairgoers, from cowboys to urban dwellers, hail from all corners of the state. Pictured: the esplanade, which hosts a sensational light show nightly.
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Architecture
Proceeds from coupon sales contribute to the improvements and upkeep of the historic Fair Park. Many of the structures are Art Deco gems.
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Texans Gather
Texas craftsmen haul their goods to sell.
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Future Farmers
The Future Farmers of America bring their best lot to be judged in the Swine Barn.
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Livestock Love
Texas State Fair officials judge the best-sheared sheep in the state.
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Texas Wine
Up for tasting: wine grown in the Lone Star State.
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The spirit of Texas is everywhere.
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Texas Skies
The Texas Skyway, a gondola ride that takes you above and through the Midway, offers a view of downtown Dallas and the Texas Star Ferris Wheel.
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All About Corn Dogs
If it’s not a Fletcher’s corn dog, it’s the wrong corn dog.
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Deep-Fried Delicacies
Arguably the most beloved fair offering is the array of deep-fried food creations. Pictured: a 2014 Big Tex Award Finalist, dubbed Fried Sweet Texas. Within this funnel cake pocket is a heavenly mix of pecan and apple pie.
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Midway Dining
The sun begins to set as people linger for dinner near the Midway.
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Hall of State
At the Hall of State: an exhibit of the great musicians that have hailed from the Lone Star State, including country stars and unexpected born Texans like Usher and Nelly.
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Classic Carousel
It wouldn’t be a state fair without a carousel.
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Nighttime Thrills
Once the sun sets, the crowds flock to the Midway for carnival rides.
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Midway Mania
The Midway is the most popular section of the fair. Think of it as Texas’s Coney Island: bright lights, cheap thrills, and funnel cakes. It’s also pretty much the perfect place to find love.