If you intend to attend this year’s State Fair of Texas, make sure to leave enough time for a seamless admission and exit. Fair authorities and law police have revealed several modifications that you should be aware of before attending.
Rebecca Williams works as a supervisor for ACT Event Services, a contractor that provides security and other services for the annual event, but she has long-standing ties to the fair, and memories flood back.
“I moved here to Dallas in 1975, and I remember seeing all the lights and stuff, and we couldn’t really afford to come, so we’d come on the days you could bring can goods, and we would come in and see all the shows,” Williams told me.
“I worked for the school district, and every week on Senior’s Day, I would bring my mother to eat candy apples.”
It’s all part of a strong Texas tradition that has attracted visitors since 1886. According to organizers, the State Fair has attracted more than two million visitors in recent years. This year, with an expected economic impact of more than $600 million, they’ve implemented a few rules to improve safety and security.
“We are constantly evaluating our security plan with the Dallas Police Department, Dallas Fire-Rescue, and the Fair’s other security partners,” Karissa Condoianis, senior vice president of public relations for the State Fair of Texas, stated at a news conference.
Here are some of the current revisions, as well as processes that will continue from last year:
Clear bags are required. Exceptions include medical and baby bags, as well as soft-shell coolers after inspection.
Anyone under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older after 5 p.m.
No guns are permitted. Security will scan for forbidden items upon arrival.
High school kids can no longer get in for free, but discounted tickets are available.
The adjustments came months after the city terminated its contract with Fair Park First, citing financial and maintenance issues in a June press release. The city now manages the park and oversees the fair.
“The security screening process will be recorded to confirm that our security personnel follow best practices,” stated Jeff Cotner, the fair’s director of security.
This is all happening while fairgoers enjoy the legendary rides, entertainment, and agribusiness that have earned the event the nickname “The Most Texan Place on Earth.”
