Dallas, TX. The historic 1920s Dentzel hand-carved wooden carousel; the Texas Star, North America's largest Ferris wheel, and Randy Travis are among the big annual attractions at the equally historic State Fair of Texas.

The State Fair of Texas is held at the Fair Park where it has been held since 1886. The 2012 fair will run September 28 to October 21.

Where everything is big, Big Tex, a 52 foot tall cowboy, has been the symbol of the fair since his introduction in 1952. In 1953, Big Tex's jaw was hinged, so that he appears to "speak" the announcements that promote fair events.

The State Fair of Texas is the largest state fair in the United States by annual attendance, according to industry magazine Amusement Business.



In addition to the amusement rides, the fair offers livestock competitions, ongoing entertainment and other special events. Traditionally, one of the centerpieces of the fair has been the annual college football game between Texas and Oklahoma, nicknamed "The Red River Shootout" and played in the Cotton Bowl at Fair Park.

The State Fair of Texas is the only fair in the country to include a full blown auto show. It includes over 300,000 square feet of new model vehicles, two buildings, a Truck Zone and a Test Drive Track. The State Fair has been the site for several international launches through the years.

Visit www.bigtex.com for all you need to know to plan your visit.