East Texas State Fair 2024

The East Texas State Fair in Tyler embodies the traditional mission of fairs: fostering social, educational, and cultural experiences. This annual event is a vibrant sharing, collaboration, and discovery space. Primarily designed for charitable purposes, the fair raises funds for education by providing scholarships for talented students and hosting the Academic Rodeo, an educational competition among local schools.

Activities

In addition to its social mission, the Tyler State Fair offers classic fair fun with rides, petting zoos, and concerts. Festival-goers can enjoy freestyle motocross shows, commercial exhibits, caricature artists, livestock displays, art and photo exhibits, and performances by local cover bands. Kids will love activities like face painting and the Butterfly Encounter, among others.

Food

Food Row, a legendary lineup of food trucks, offers a unique variety of tasty treats, including caramel apples, corn dogs, enchiladas, fajitas, onion rings, quesadillas, burgers, fish nuggets, turkey legs, baked potatoes, burritos, and more. Visitors can indulge in sweet treats such as ice cream, mini donuts, fruit and veggie smoothies, snow cones, and other delightful options.

Vendors

Guests can enjoy The Sleep City Marketplace, a premier shopping destination located in Building E next to the Dining Tent. Here, everyone can browse a variety of vendors offering unique finds. Marketplace hours are 10 am - 10 pm on weekends (Friday-Sunday) and 4 pm - 9 pm on weekdays.

Tickets & Hours

The fair operates Monday through Thursday from 4 pm to 10 pm and Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 11 pm. The carnival opens at 4 pm on weekdays and at noon on weekends. Admission is $12 for adults (13+), $6 for children aged 5-12, and free for kids under 5. Concerts and carnival rides require additional tickets or wristbands, which can be purchased in advance. Unlimited Ride Wristbands are available for $37, and individual ride tickets cost $0.50 each. Carnival Wristbands can be bought online and redeemed on any day. They do not include admission to the fair. Don't forget to check for special offers on "UT Tyler Day," "Seniors Day," and more.

Parking

While free parking is offered along the streets surrounding the fairgrounds, securing a spot during peak hours can prove challenging. Four paid parking lots, managed by the Tyler Lions Club, are open to the public for more convenient options. These lots charge $3.00 (cash only) for parking.

Rules & Restrictions

The Fair has a strict no-re-entry policy, meaning you cannot leave and return later. Smoking is prohibited anywhere on the fairgrounds. Only registered livestock and service animals are allowed. Additionally, bringing in outside food and drinks is not permitted.