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State Fair 101: Expert Guide to Cutting Admission Costs

September marks the countdown to the State Fair of Texas, opening on September 30. If you plan to visit multiple times, here’s how to reduce admission costs while still enjoying every attraction.

During the Fair (September 30 – October 23)

Buy DART GoPASS Tickets
Travel to Fair Park Station via DART, then purchase discounted tickets directly through the DART GoPASS app. General admission is $16 and child/senior tickets are $12, saving $2 per ticket compared to the gate price.

Retail Discounts
Kroger and Walgreens sell general admission for $16.50 and season passes for $34.95—$1.50 and $5 savings, respectively.

Dr. Pepper Promotion
Show an empty Dr. Pepper can after 5 p.m. each day and receive half‑price admission (one can per person). This offer cannot be combined with other discounts.

McDonald’s Coupon
Check the tray liner of your McDonald’s meal for a $5 off general admission coupon. The coupon also grants half‑price child tickets when purchased with a general admission ticket. One coupon per person; not combinable.

NorthPark Center
Pick up discounted tickets at the concierge desk for $15. $5 from each ticket is donated to the Assist the Officer Foundation.

Day‑Specific Discounts

Opening Day – September 30

Military & Veterans – Active, retired, and veteran service members receive free admission with valid military documentation. Spouses and children under 18 with a Military Spouse ID also receive free admission courtesy of OneMain Financial.

Donate a 20 oz. Dasani or any 20 oz. Coca‑Cola product at the gates and receive a half‑price admission coupon (one donation per person). Not combinable.

Tuesdays (October 4, 11, 18)

Submit an empty Dr. Pepper can for a $5 admission coupon. Most rides offer 6‑coupon discounts, cutting the price in half (excluding Thrillway and Texas Star).

Wednesdays (October 5, 12, 19)

Donate four food cans to the North Texas Food Bank and receive a $4 admission coupon. One donation per person; not combinable.

Thursdays (October 6, 13, 20)

Seniors 60+ enter for free. Alternatively, bring a 20 oz. Coca‑Cola bottle for a $6 admission coupon. Most food items are 2–7 coupons, offering nearly 50 % savings.

Fridays (October 7, 14, 21)

Download a $13 general admission coupon from the 106.1 KISS FM website (available close to the fair start). One coupon per person; not combinable.

Travel Notes
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