February 23, 2012

What Makes the State Fair of Texas so Big

Description: Big Tex, the mascot of the Texas ...

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If you’re looking for a prime example of the saying “everything is bigger in Texas” then look no further than the State Fair of Texas. The State Fair of Texas has been held annually in Dallas since 1886 and draws visitors from all over the world. Starting the last week of September and running for 24 days straight, the State Fair of Texas has hundreds of attractions, games and events that keep people coming back for more.

If you’re considering stopping by the State Fair of Texas, here’s a look at some things you can expect to experience on your visit.

Big Tex

Big Tex is the biggest attraction for the State Fair of Texas. Big Tex is a 52 ft. tall cowboy statue that is designed to look as if the cowboy is talking. All announcements, entertainment and other things related to the fair is broadcast through a megaphone that is in the cowboy’s jaw to make it appear as if he is talking to the crowds.

Unique Fair Food

Vendors from all over the state of Texas come to the state fair to show off their culinary skills. Everything from cheesecake, corndogs, fried food, ribs, and steaks are offered at the state fair.

The State Fair of Texas is also the home of where many new deep fried foods are introduced. Everything from Oreos to pork ribs are deep fried and offered to the crowds.

Besides Big Tex and the unique fair food, state fair attendees can expect to see great bands, enjoy fair rides and play carnival games.

Visit the Cowboy Capital of the World

If you happen to love the old spaghetti westerns, or even if you were just a fan of Jack Palance in “City Slickers,” then you will love the small town atmosphere surrounding the lands of Bandera Texas. Located just one hour from San Antonio, the Bandera offers small town friendliness with bigger than life adventure. Touted as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” Bandera gives you the opportunity to live out your wild west dreams or just appreciate the simplicity of the cowboy way.

Covering close to 725 square miles, Bandera County offers a variety of distinctive lodging facilities. Bed and Breakfasts are available for the pampered, personal touch, traditional hotels for comfort and efficiency, and dude ranches for an authentic Texas stay. A Texas hallmark, the dude ranches in the Bandera area offer daily rides, cabins, and the peace and quiet found only under a star studded Texas sky.

If you are looking for an interactive vacation experience, then Bandera has several options for you; Ranch tours, horseback riding, rodeos, and hunting are just a few of the rugged, outdoor activities you can participate in. But if you are looking for something less hands on, Bandera also offers a historical walking tour, shopping at Old West Imports, and nightlife at the 11th Street Cowboy Bar.

The Bandera Music History Project Hall of Fame offers visitors a chance to listen to old time Bandera music as well as current offerings. And the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum provides the public with an opportunity to admire Bandera area’s collection of motorcycles. The museum also offers pre-arranged tours for motorcycle aficionados.

For the kids, rodeos are held during the Spring, and from March thru December the family will enjoy Cowboys on the Main, the living history project from the Frontier Times Museum; featuring western entertainers, horses, trick ropers, and chuck wagons.