Why the Allure of Texas's State Fair Will Never Die

Fairgoers, from cowboys to urban dwellers, hail from all corners of the state. Pictured: the esplanade, which hosts a sensational light show nightly.

Proceeds from coupon sales contribute to the improvements and upkeep of the historic Fair Park. Many of the structures are Art Deco gems.

Texas craftsmen haul their goods to sell.

The Future Farmers of America bring their best lot to be judged in the Swine Barn.

Texas State Fair officials judge the best-sheared sheep in the state.

Up for tasting: wine grown in the Lone Star State.

The spirit of Texas is everywhere.

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.

If it’s not a Fletcher’s corn dog, it’s the wrong corn dog.

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.

The sun begins to set as people linger for dinner near the Midway.

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.

It wouldn’t be a state fair without a carousel.

Once the sun sets, the crowds flock to the Midway for carnival rides.

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.