Big Tex. Fried foods. And a lineup of Texas music artists. All this can only mean one thing: The State Fair of Texas returns to Fair Park on Friday, Sept. 27.

The first state fair was proposed in 1886 and because local leaders couldn’t decide where the event should take place, there were two fairs. The Dallas State Fair took place on 80 acres in Fair Park and the Texas State Fair & Exposition opened just north of town near North Dallas High School. The two sides eventually came together in 1887 and by 1916, the annual event welcomed one million people for the first time.

With less than 18 days until the fair kicks off, we’re giving you the run-down of what’s happening this year at Fair Park. Ride with us.

Hours, tickets, parking

During its 24 days, the fair runsFriday, Sept. 27 -Sunday, Oct. 20and the gates will open at 9 a.m.
Tickets + parking passes are available online. Admission costs $5-$25.
Parking is available onsite — its $30 at official Fair lots. Check out the directions to get to the gates.
Pro tip: If you arrive after 5 p.m., all guests will pay the price of a child’s ticket.

Enjoy live music every day at the fair. | Photo provided

The concerts

Some big names are headlining this year’s concert series on the Chevrolet Main Stage, Bud Light Stage, and Yuengling Stage. More than 90 performers will take the stage this year — 74 of those hail from the Lone Star State. Pro tip: A fair ticket will give you free admission to all concerts.

The lineup:

Croy and the Boys | Friday, Sept. 27 | 1 p.m., 3 p.m. + 5 p.m. | Bud Light Stage
Grace Porter| Saturday, Oct. 5 | 8:30 p.m. | Chevrolet Main Stage
DJ Mark Ridlen| Saturday, Oct. 12 | 11 a.m + 1 p.m. | Yuengling Stage

Check out the full list of performers.

We went for a classic corny dogs but there are lots of flavors to try. | Photo by FTWtoday

The fried fair fare

As always, expect a lot of fried food along the midway, as well as the winners of this year’s Big Tex Choice Awards.Since 2005, the Big Tex Choice Awards has welcomed new chefs into the exclusive club of fried food creations. This year don't forget to stop by and try new additions like the Russo's Cotton Candy Bacon on a Stick and Texas Sugar Rush Pickles.

Sweet and salty, fluffy and crunchy — what more could you want? | Photo courtesy of the State Fair of Texas

The attractions

The fair is known for its exhibits spanning all kinds of interests. Here are a few that we’re excited about:

Rodeo | Fair Park Coliseum | From high-energy bull riding to wild cow milking, you won’t want to miss the action.

In the Barns | Livestock Barns| Enjoy rich agricultural heritage every day through activities and demonstrations like Farm and Fork University and the Livestock Birthing Barn.

Billy Kidd Show | Charismatic charm meets infectious energy at this captivating close-up magic show.

Bryan Berg the Card Stacker | The Guinness World Record holder is ready to wow this year's state fairgoers with his incredible card-stacking of famous Texas icons.

Cirque du Soleil: Songblazers | The circus meets country as Cirque de Soleil tells the story of the genre through a theatrical performance. Note: Separate tickets are required for this show.

For a full roundup of daily events, check out this year’s attractions.

Final game plan

Of course, no fair is complete without rides + games, and the State Fair of Texas will have plenty of those, too. This daily calendar of events will also help you map out your visit. Whatever you do, give yourself plenty of time to explore, bring sunscreen + wear your stretchy pants and comfy shoes.