DALLAS — Big Tex returned to Fair Park Friday morning as the State Fair of Texas prepares to open for its 140th year next week.
A crane lifted the 55-foot Texas icon into position, marking one of the most visible signs that the fair is nearing its Sept. 25 opening.
Big Tex will debut several new pieces of clothing this year, including custom boots featuring Texas symbols such as bluebonnets and a longhorn, along with red and blue details inspired by the state flag.
He will also wear a new pair of Levi’s 501 jeans. The jeans measure 380 inches around the waist and 290 inches long, use about 85 yards of denim and weigh roughly 132 pounds.
Big Tex will also wear a new red Western-style pearl snap shirt from Cavender’s, featuring navy and white accents. The fair plans to update the shirt each year with designs tied to milestones involving the fair, Texas or the United States.
Firearms ban remains in effect
State Fair of Texas officials said Friday that the fair will continue its firearms ban this season.
Current and retired law enforcement officers remain exempt from the prohibition.
Fairgoers will undergo enhanced security screening that includes a weapons detection system. Officials recommend clear bags to make the screening process easier, although the fair does not require them.
The Cotton Bowl will continue to require clear bags for events such as the annual Texas-Oklahoma game.
The firearms policy followed a 2023 shooting inside Fair Park’s food court that injured three people. The gunman received a 12-year prison sentence for aggravated assault.
Karissa Condoianis, senior vice president of public relations for the State Fair of Texas, said the fair supports gun owners’ rights but considers the event a place for families.
“We support the rights of gun owners,” Condoianis said. “This is a family event and creating a safe family environment.”
Fair lowers some prices
The State Fair of Texas also plans to lower several costs after attendance declined in 2025 amid complaints about food, admission and parking prices.
Adult admission will cost $2 less this year, while parking rates will also decrease.
Children 12 and younger can enter for $10 each day. The fair will also offer $10 admission after 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Ride prices will drop nearly 20% from last year.
Fair officials also said vendors are exploring smaller portions of some State Fair food offerings so visitors can try more items at lower prices.
The 2026 State Fair of Texas will run from Sept. 25 through Oct. 18 at Fair Park in Dallas.