As the 2019 State Fair of Texas draws to a close, it is evident that this year’s event was truly unforgettable. For the 133rd time, the annual fair united individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering a mix of cherished traditions and fresh innovations that captivated attendees. Embodying the spirit of Texas, this year’s theme was “Celebrating Texas Creativity.” More than 2.5 million visitors experienced the Fair during its run(at the time of this release).
As a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity, the Fair is committed to enhancing the community at both the local and state levels. Proceeds generated from the Fair are allocated to the maintenance and enhancement of Fair Park, funding museums, supporting community projects, and providing scholarships for students across Texas who seek higher education, while also improving the operations of the State Fair itself. The impressive 24-day duration of the Fair translates into increased support for Fair Park and its neighboring areas.
“We are thankful to uphold the esteemed tradition of celebrating all things Texan while uniting friends and families from across the state, nation, and globe to forge lasting memories,” expressed Mitchell Glieber, President of the State Fair of Texas. “As we conclude the 2019 festivities, we extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s Fair, enabling us to give back to Fair Park, the communities that surround it, and provide college scholarships to students throughout Texas.”
This year’s State Fair served as the largest fundraiser, significantly impacting the community in numerous ways. Here are some highlights from the 2019 exhibition:
- Since the beginning of the Fair, over 2.5 million visitors have passed through the gates.
- At this year’s Contain Your Self(ie) exhibit, attendees proudly marked their origins with over 200,000 dots on a VisitDallas map, representing all 50 states and 191 of 195 countries worldwide.
- Military Appreciation Day was a success, granting free entry to more than 9,600 military personnel and their families.
- On First Responder’s Day, more than 5,600 first responders and their families enjoyed free admission — a 24% increase from previous years.
- Over 2.29 million free tickets were distributed to students and teachers throughout North Texas.
- Aligned with this year’s theme, “Celebrating Texas Creativity,” community members showcased their skills with over 10,500 entries in the Creative Arts competitions, which attracted more than 4,000 contestants, including over 1,900 first-time entrants.
- The inaugural Lone Star Music Series featured performances from more than 45 Texas music artists throughout the event.
- Hosting over 11,000 exhibitors, the Fair included livestock and agricultural events with more than 15,000 entries.
- The 71st Annual Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction achieved a record-breaking total of over $1.56 million raised for young livestock exhibitors on October 4.
- The Grand Champion Market Steer from the auction fetched an unprecedented $155,000, sold to the Big Tex Champion Club, led by an anonymous benefactor.
- Ag Awareness Day saw participation from over 7,900 students and leaders representing 165 chapters of 4-H, FFA, and FCCLA, donating more than 30,000 pounds of food to the North Texas Food Bank through a canned food drive.
- More than 650 individuals participated in various community events sponsored by the State Fair’s community affairs team during the 24-day festival.
- The Fair proudly hosted the Second Annual Juanita Craft Humanitarian Awards, recognizing seven individuals who have positively impacted their communities and civil rights initiatives.
- So far in 2019, Big Tex Urban Farms has contributed over 17,200 pounds of fresh produce, equating to 180,000 servings for the South Dallas/Fair Park community, with 1,174 pounds donated during the Fair alone — translating to 17,000 servings.
- The Livestock Birthing Barn celebrated 81 births, including 32 pigs, 10 goats, 26 lambs, and 13 calves.
- The State Fair invested more than $2.6 million in collaboration with the City of Dallas, Fair Park First, and Spectra, enhancing the Cotton Bowl Stadium experience for over 156,000 guests attending various events.
- Over 17,000 flags were placed on the Texas Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial to honor Texas veterans who lost their lives in the Vietnam War, thanks to funding from the Fair.
- Free concerts on the Chevrolet Main Stage attracted massive crowds, featuring performers such as Daughtry, Big & Rich with Cowboy Troy, Rick Springfield, La Maquinaria Norteña, 98 Degrees, and Billy Ray Cyrus.
- For the first time, the Chevrolet Main Stage introduced “Tejano Music Thursdays,” showcasing artists like Raulito Navaira y Remedio and Jorge Moreno.
- Fifty-two events were held at the Briscoe Carpenter Livestock Center during the Fair.
- The Texas Auto Show saw approximately 90% of fairgoers with more than 2.25 million attendees during its 24-day span.
- More than 10,000 guests explored the Kinsey African American Art & History Collection at the African American Museum within Fair Park.
- The Fair awarded nearly $1.25 million in new college scholarships to over 200 students across Texas in 2019.
- Bark in Fair Park resulted in 25 dogs finding permanent homes through DFW Rescue Me.
- As college application season approaches, qualifying high school seniors and seasonal employees are encouraged to apply for a 2020 Big Tex college scholarship at BigTex.com/scholarship.
- The Fair has partnered with Goodwill Industries of Dallas, Inc. to present the Fourth Annual Big Tex Job Fair on Friday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Briscoe Carpenter Livestock Center, featuring more than 35 local companies ready to interview applicants across various skill sets. Additional information and a list of participants can be found at BigTex.com/JobFair.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who celebrated the vibrant Texan spirit at the 2019 State Fair of Texas. Mark your calendars for next year’s Fair, scheduled to take place from Friday, September 25 to Sunday, October 18 at Fair Park. Big Tex and the entire team eagerly anticipate welcoming you back in 2020!
About the State Fair of Texas
Founded in 1886, the State Fair of Texas has dedicated itself to honoring the unique culture of Texas by fostering agriculture, education, and community engagement through quality entertainment in a family-oriented setting. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, proceeds from the Fair support the preservation and enhancement of Fair Park, museums, community initiatives, scholarship programs for Texas students, and overall Fair operations. The 2020 exposition will be held from September 25 to October 18 at Fair Park. Visit BigTex.com for further details.
Karissa Condoianis
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, PUBLIC RELATIONS • P.O. BOX 150009, DALLAS, TEXAS 75315 • C: 214.289.3318
About the State Fair of Texas
Since its inception in 1886, the State Fair of Texas has celebrated all things Texan by promoting agriculture, education, and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment. The State Fair of Texas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with proceeds helping to preserve and improve our home, Fair Park; underwrite museums, community initiatives, and scholarship programs to support students throughout the Lone Star State pursuing higher education; and help improve State Fair operations. The 2019 exposition runs September 27 through October 20 in Fair Park. Visit BigTex.com for more information.
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