Big Tex Still Brings Back My Favorite Texas State Fair Memories

The giant cowboy who inspired a little kid. Some of my favorite childhood memories take me right back to the State Fair of Texas.

My dad was serving in Vietnam, so my mom, my older brother Juan, and my Aunt Viola loaded up my two younger brothers and me for a trip I'll never forget. Today, my mom, Juan, and Aunt Viola are all in Heaven, but every time I think about the State Fair, they're right there with me again.

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I still remember walking through the gates and looking up at Big Tex. I was completely mesmerized. I decided right then and there that someday I was going to own a cowboy hat and a pair of boots just like his. I wanted to grow up looking just like Big Tex.

A carousel, a chili dog, and lemonade

While everyone has their favorite State Fair tradition, mine came from the simplest moments.

I couldn't get enough of the beautiful carousel, riding one of the horses as it galloped up and down while my mom and brother stood nearby with their hands stretched out so I could slap them with a high-five every time I came around.

Then came something I'd never tasted before, a chili dog with a big, ice-cold glass of lemonade.

To this day, I can still remember that first bite. It was one of those childhood moments you never forget.

Big Tex gets a fresh Texas look

When the 2026 State Fair of Texas opens on September 25, fairgoers will notice Big Tex sporting a new Western look.

The State Fair has announced that Cavender's Boot City is now the Official Western Wear Store of Big Tex. The Texas retailer collaborated on Big Tex's signature Western shirt, while legendary hatmaker Resistol designed his iconic 95-gallon cowboy hat. It's a partnership that celebrates three longtime Texas traditions and the Western heritage Texans have loved for generations.

The 2026 State Fair of Texas runs September 25 through October 18 with the theme "Stars, Stripes, and Howdies."

Some memories never grow old

Just talking about that first trip makes me want to head back to Dallas.

Maybe it's the smell of fair food, maybe it's seeing Big Tex welcome everyone with that familiar smile, or maybe it's remembering the people who made those childhood memories so special.

Whatever it is, some traditions never grow old, and for me, the State Fair of Texas will always feel a little like coming home.