2019 State Fair of Texas: Insider Tips to Maximize Savings at the Gate
The State Fair of Texas opens September 27, and we’re counting down to the next round of Fletcher’s Corny Dog. The fair offers a range of discounts that let you stretch your budget for the rides, food, and unique crafts in the Creative Arts Building. Every dollar saved is a dollar you can spend on the Texas Star, a Dallas Cowboys game, or a handmade souvenir.
New to the fair? Read our First‑Timer’s Guide to the State Fair of Texas. For more Dallas events this fall, explore our Dallas Fall Hub.
How to Save at the Gate Throughout the Fair:
- Buy tickets online. Skip the line and enjoy a $1.50 discount versus BigTex.com.
- Purchase a $45 season pass for 24 days of admission – essentially $1.87 per day. It includes one free bring‑a‑friend ticket, a reusable 2019 State Fair bag, and multiple on‑site discounts.
- Travel with 20 or more people? Group tickets cut your cost by roughly 50%.
- Use DART’s GoPass app for discounted admission: $16 for general, $12 for child/senior.
- Grab tickets at Kroger for $16.50 general admission and $39.95 season passes.
- Arrive after 5 p.m. and bring an empty Dr. Pepper can for half‑price general admission.
- Before recycling your McDonald’s take‑out, scan the tray liner or bag for a $5 off coupon—usable on general admission or half‑price children’s tickets (with a general admission purchase).
Opening Day (Friday, September 27) Specials:
- Active and retired military and veterans enter free with valid documentation.
- Donate a 20 oz. Dasani or any 20 oz. Coca‑Cola product for a $9 admission; proceeds support the North Texas Food Bank.
Day‑Specific Discounts:
First Responders Day (Friday, October 11)
- All active/retired law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders receive free admission with a badge or ID. Up to three family tickets are available.
Tuesdays (Oct. 1, 8, 15)
- Dr. Pepper half‑price Tuesdays: bring an empty can for a $9 admission ticket.
- Midway rides are discounted on Tuesdays.
Wednesdays (Oct. 2, 9, 16)
- Donate four food cans to the North Texas Food Bank for a $4 admission ticket—one donation per person.
Thursdays (Oct. 3, 10, 17)
- Thrifty Thursdays: most items—including cotton candy, corny dogs, and funnel cakes—are between two and seven coupons, saving nearly half the price.
- Senior citizens 60+ enter free every Thursday.
- Bring an empty 20 oz. Coca‑Cola bottle for $9 admission.
New discounts will be added as they’re announced. For a full list and all fine print, visit BigTex.com.
Bonus: Secure discounted tickets at the Visitor Experience Center for $13 (plus a $3 processing fee) for all ages. Speak to our Tourist Information Specialists for details.
