8 tips: State Fair of Texas with the family

The State Fair of Texas has a large variety of activities for families to enjoy including a petting zoo, auto show, pig races, rides, carnival games and more. It can be overwhelming for parents to know what to bring and how to plan for the fair, so the Sun put together a list of tips for a day at the fair with your family.

1. Plan out your activities ahead of time. Since there are so many activities, it is helpful to look through the fair’s website and pick out what your family will enjoy. Decide what shows you’ll see and when you’ll stop at the Midway for games and rides. Look at all the special events and shows, including the creative arts and the car show. Be sure to stay flexible because you never know what will grab your family’s interests. You can find all the events and a map of the fair at https://bigtex.com. 2. Bring your own snacks, water bottles and wagons/strollers. State Fair food is delicious, but if you want to save some money, bring your own snacks and drinks. It is allowed, and it will help you save those coupons for a special treat instead of spending it on water. Bring a stroller or wagon to hold tired kids and your bags of snacks and drinks.

3. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes Lots of walking will happen on your visit to the fair, so be sure to have everyone in the family wear comfortable shoes and clothes. No one wants blisters, and no one wants to be uncomfortable all day.

4. Don’t stand right in front of Big Tex for family photos The best Big Tex family photos are when you stand further away from him, helping you get all of Big Tex in the picture without having to do a weird angle. Don’t be afraid to ask somebody to take the photo, so you can have everybody in the family picture. Sometimes there is a worker standing there ready to take a photo at no additional charge. 5. Try something new Every type of food is available at the fair, so don’t be afraid to try something new or even something deep fried. With multiple shows to see, check out one you’ve never seen before.

6. Check the weather before you go If there is a chance of rain, bring umbrellas, ponchos, rain boots and rain jackets. Bring sunscreen for the hotter days. While 80 to 85 degrees may seem cooler, be prepared for it to feel hot while walking around the fair in the direct sunlight. Stop inside an exhibit hall to cool down when you or a family member feel too hot.

7. Avoid parking lines with DART Consider adding another experience for your family and avoid parking lines in and out of the fair by traveling on the DART train. A station is located just outside the main gates.

8. Bring coupons from previous years Coupons from any year can be used to purchase food, drinks and rides because they never expire.

The fair runs through Sunday, Oct. 23. Visit https://bigtex.com for more information. Originally published October 3, 2022 - https://www.waxahachiesun.com/arts_and_entertainment/8-tips-state-fair-of-texas-with-the-family/article_478b5258-4355-11ed-9f24-e772da031a7a.html