The Lyda Hill Texas Collection of Photographs in Carol M. Highsmith’s America Project, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division.

Returning to Fair Park for its 137th year, the State Fair of Texas offers many family-friendly activities like a petting zoo, water balloon fights and various rides for visitors to make lasting memories.

“This was my first time going to the state fair,” junior Destiny Greggs said. “I thought it would be a fun experience to go to the fair with some friends.”

Visitors can enjoy classic deep-fried treats with new foods introduced this year: fried coffee and fried oatmeal pie.

“I looked forward to trying all the fried foods,” Greggs said. “I ate fried mac and cheese, fried s’mores, corn dogs and funnel cake.” 

Fairgoers can expect attractions like butter sculptures, an aquarium and gardens to bring families together.

“I decided to go to the state fair because my family wanted to spend more time with each other,” junior Uyen Pham said. “I was curious to see what they had there.”

Aside from food, visitors can cool down with various beverages like the Trail-Ade, a blend of fruits, cucumber and lemonade.

“I liked that there were so many creative drinks,” Pham said. “There were many good drinks and refreshers.”

The State Fair gave out 2.1 million free admission tickets to students and teachers in North Texas.

Greggs said, “Although this was my first time going, it was an enjoyable experience for me, especially after winning a stuffed animal.”