How to Attend State Fair of Texas Big Tex Insider Day

The State Fair of Texas is more than just a seasonal attraction—it’s a cultural institution, a celebration of Texan heritage, and a showcase of innovation, food, and entertainment that draws over two million visitors annually. Among its most exclusive experiences is Big Tex Insider Day, an invitation-only event that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the heart of the fair: the iconic Big Tex statue, the fairgrounds operations, and the inner workings of one of the largest state fairs in the United States. Unlike general admission, Big Tex Insider Day is designed for superfans, local influencers, media, and community leaders who want to experience the fair before the crowds arrive. Attending this event is not just a privilege—it’s an opportunity to connect with the legacy of Big Tex, understand the scale of the fair’s logistics, and gain access to content and stories that can’t be found anywhere else.

For many, Big Tex Insider Day represents the pinnacle of State Fair of Texas engagement. It’s a chance to walk through the midway before the rides spin, to see Big Tex up close in his full glory, to meet the artisans and engineers who maintain him, and to taste exclusive previews of the fair’s legendary fried foods. Yet, despite its allure, many are unaware of how to even qualify for this event, let alone secure a spot. This guide is your comprehensive roadmap to navigating the process—from eligibility and registration to preparation and post-event engagement—so you can turn curiosity into participation.

Step-by-Step Guide

Understand What Big Tex Insider Day Is

Big Tex Insider Day typically occurs one to two days before the official opening of the State Fair of Texas. It is not a public event. Attendance is limited to a select group of individuals chosen through a combination of applications, sponsor nominations, and community partnerships. The day is structured as a guided tour, featuring exclusive access to areas normally off-limits to the public: the Big Tex workshop, the backstage areas of the Grandstand, the food vendor prep zones, and the fair’s media center.

The experience includes:

• A personal meet-and-greet with the team responsible for Big Tex’s annual restoration
• Early tasting of signature fair foods
• Photo opportunities with Big Tex in his full 55-foot glory
• Access to limited-edition merchandise
• Insider briefings on the history and cultural impact of the fair

Because of its exclusivity, this event is not advertised publicly. Information is distributed through partner organizations, past attendees, and official State Fair of Texas communication channels.

Identify Eligibility Criteria

To attend Big Tex Insider Day, you must meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Be a registered media professional (journalist, blogger, YouTuber, or influencer with a minimum of 5,000 followers or consistent content output over six months)
• Be a nonprofit representative or community leader nominated by a State Fair partner organization
• Have attended the State Fair of Texas for five or more consecutive years
• Be a sponsor or vendor partner of the fair
• Be selected through the official State Fair of Texas VIP program

General public applications are not accepted. However, you can increase your chances by becoming a visible advocate for the fair through social media, local events, or community outreach.

Monitor Official Communication Channels

The State Fair of Texas releases information about Big Tex Insider Day through its primary platforms:

• Official Website: thestatefair.com — Check the “Events” and “Media” sections starting in early July
• Email Newsletter: Subscribe to the State Fair’s newsletter using the form on the homepage. Updates are typically sent in mid-July
• Social Media: Follow @StateFairofTexas on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Insider Day announcements often appear here first
• Partner Organizations: Local chambers of commerce, tourism boards, and media outlets in the Dallas-Fort Worth area often receive early notifications

Set calendar reminders for July 10 and July 20. This is when most invitations are distributed. Do not wait until August—slots fill within 48 hours of announcement.

Prepare Your Application Materials

If you believe you qualify, prepare the following documents in advance:

• Proof of Media Status: A link to your published content (minimum 10 pieces in the last year), your platform analytics (follower count, engagement rate), and a brief bio
• Community Involvement Statement: A 150-word paragraph describing your role in the local community, volunteer work, or advocacy for Texas culture
• Previous Fair Attendance Record: Photos, receipts, or social media posts showing your attendance in past years (if applicable)
• Letter of Recommendation (optional): From a nonprofit leader, educator, or previous Insider Day attendee

Keep all materials in a single PDF file labeled: “FirstName_LastName_BigTexInsiderDay_Application.pdf”

Submit Your Request

When the official announcement is made, follow the link provided in the email or social post. This will direct you to a secure form hosted on the State Fair’s website. Do not use third-party sites or unsolicited links.

Complete the form with accuracy:

• Full legal name
• Phone number and email (use a professional address)
• Primary reason for applying
• Upload your prepared PDF
• Confirm you can attend on the scheduled date and time

Submission deadlines are strict. Late entries are not considered. After submission, you will receive an automated confirmation email. Do not assume you’ve been selected until you receive a personalized invitation from insider@thestatefair.com.

Wait for Confirmation

Selections are made within 7–10 business days. If you are chosen, your invitation will include:

• Date and time of the event
• Check-in location (usually the Big Tex Welcome Center)
• Required ID (government-issued photo ID)
• Attire guidelines (closed-toe shoes, weather-appropriate clothing)
• Bag policy (no large backpacks or professional camera equipment without prior approval)

If you do not hear back after 10 days, check your spam folder. If still no response, send a polite follow-up email to insider@thestatefair.com with your application reference number.

Prepare for the Day

Once confirmed, treat this like a professional engagement. Here’s what to do:

• Review the Schedule: The itinerary is usually sent 48 hours prior. Note times for each stop on the tour.
• Plan Transportation: Parking is limited. Use rideshare or public transit (DART Green Line to Fair Park Station).
• Bring Essentials: Water bottle, sunscreen, hat, phone charger, notebook, and a camera (if permitted).
• Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Avoid high heels, flip-flops, or overly casual attire like tank tops or ripped jeans.
• Arrive Early: Check-in opens one hour before the event. Late arrivals may miss portions of the tour.

During the Event

Big Tex Insider Day is not a passive experience. It’s designed to be interactive. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Engage with Staff: Ask thoughtful questions. The artisans who restore Big Tex each year are proud of their work and love to share details.
• Take Meaningful Photos: Capture behind-the-scenes moments, but avoid selfies with Big Tex unless invited. Respect the space.
• Sample Food Thoughtfully: Taste a variety of items, but take notes on flavor profiles and ingredients. You may be asked to share feedback later.
• Network: Other attendees may include local influencers, journalists, and fair staff. Exchange contact information if appropriate.
• Follow Instructions: Guides will direct you to safe areas. Do not wander off or enter restricted zones.

Post-Event Engagement

Your participation doesn’t end when the tour does. The State Fair of Texas encourages attendees to share their experience to promote the event to wider audiences.

• Post photos and stories on your social platforms using

  BigTexInsiderDay and #StateFairofTexas

• Write a blog post or create a video recap detailing your experience
• Tag the official State Fair accounts so they can reshare your content
• Consider submitting your recap to local media outlets or community newsletters

Those who actively promote the event are often prioritized for future insider experiences, including backstage passes to concerts, early access to new food items, and invitations to the annual Big Tex unveiling ceremony.

Best Practices

Start Early, Even If You’re Not Eligible Yet

Even if you don’t currently meet the criteria for Big Tex Insider Day, begin building your profile now. Create consistent content about Texas culture, attend the State Fair annually, volunteer at local events, and connect with fair staff on social media. These actions compound over time and make you a stronger candidate in future years.

Use Professional Communication

When emailing or applying, avoid slang, emojis, or casual language. Use a clear subject line: “Application for Big Tex Insider Day – [Your Name].” Proofread all materials. Typos or unprofessional tone can disqualify even qualified applicants.

Respect the Exclusivity

Big Tex Insider Day is not a marketing gimmick—it’s a tribute to the people who keep the fair alive. Do not attempt to resell tickets, share access codes, or try to bring uninvited guests. Violations result in permanent exclusion from future events.

Document Everything

Keep a digital folder of your participation: confirmation emails, photos, media coverage, and thank-you notes from fair staff. This record becomes your portfolio for future applications, media opportunities, or even grant proposals related to cultural preservation.

Be a Steward of the Fair’s Legacy

Big Tex is more than a statue—he’s a symbol of Texas pride. Use your platform to educate others about the fair’s history, its economic impact on Dallas, and the craftsmanship behind its traditions. This mindset is what the selection committee looks for in candidates.

Follow Up Gracefully

If you’re not selected one year, send a brief, appreciative note to insider@thestatefair.com thanking them for their consideration. Mention what you’ve done since last year to improve your qualifications. This shows dedication and increases your chances in future cycles.

Prepare for Weather and Crowds

Even though Insider Day is before the public opening, the fairgrounds are still outdoors. Dallas summers are hot and humid. Bring a lightweight, breathable jacket. Hydrate before you arrive. Wear layers. The workshop areas may be cooler than the open midway.

Don’t Overshare Before the Event

Some elements of the tour are kept secret until the day. Avoid posting “sneak peeks” or spoilers on social media. The fair relies on surprise and discovery to maintain excitement. Respect that.

Tools and Resources

Official State Fair of Texas Website

thestatefair.com is your primary source for accurate information. Bookmark it. Check it weekly starting in June. The site includes historical archives, vendor lists, event calendars, and past media coverage.

Email Newsletter Subscription

Sign up at the bottom of the homepage. You’ll receive monthly updates, contest announcements, and early access to insider event notifications. Use a dedicated email address for this purpose to avoid clutter.

Social Media Monitoring Tools

Use free tools like TweetDeck (for Twitter/X), Hootsuite, or Google Alerts to track keywords such as “Big Tex Insider Day,” “State Fair of Texas VIP,” and “Big Tex unveiling.” Set alerts for July 1–31. This ensures you don’t miss the announcement.

Content Creation Tools

Even if you’re not a professional creator, you can enhance your application with simple tools:

• Canva: Design a professional one-page bio or media kit
• CapCut or InShot: Edit short video clips of your past fair visits
• Google Analytics: Show engagement metrics if you have a blog or YouTube channel

Local Community Resources

Reach out to:

• Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Dallas Regional Chamber
• Fair Park nonprofit partners (e.g., Fair Park First)
• Local public libraries with Texas history collections

These organizations often have direct ties to the State Fair and may nominate qualified individuals.

Historical Archives

Deepen your understanding of Big Tex by exploring:

• The Dallas Public Library Digital Archive — search “Big Tex history”
• The Texas State Historical Association’s online encyclopedia
• The State Fair’s own Big Tex: The Icon, The Man, The Legend documentary (available on YouTube)

Knowing the history allows you to ask informed questions during the tour and demonstrates genuine passion.

Transportation Planning

Use the DART trip planner at dart.org to map your route to Fair Park Station. Ride-share drop-off points are clearly marked on the fair’s map. Avoid driving if possible—parking is expensive and limited.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Local Blogger

Jessica Ruiz, a Dallas-based food and culture blogger with 12,000 Instagram followers, applied for Big Tex Insider Day in 2022 after attending the fair for seven consecutive years. She submitted a 300-word statement about her childhood memories of eating funnel cake with her grandfather, paired with photos of her previous fair visits and links to her 15 published articles on Texas cuisine. She was selected. On the day of the event, she interviewed the Big Tex restoration team and posted a 12-minute YouTube video titled “How Big Tex Is Born Every Year.” The video received over 85,000 views and was shared by the State Fair’s official account. In 2023, she was invited back as a featured guest speaker at the fair’s media orientation.

Example 2: The Nonprofit Leader

Carlos Mendez, executive director of Youth Arts Dallas, was nominated by the Dallas Arts District after his organization hosted a free fair-themed art workshop for 200 underserved students. His nomination packet included student artwork, attendance records, and letters from school principals. He attended Big Tex Insider Day in 2021 and later partnered with the State Fair to create a youth art exhibit on the midway. The exhibit is now an annual feature.

Example 3: The Media Intern

Maya Johnson, a journalism student at the University of North Texas, applied as a media representative through her university’s communications department. She had published five articles in the campus newspaper and maintained a Substack newsletter on Texas traditions. Her application included a sample article she wrote about the history of fried food at the fair. She was selected in 2023 and later landed a summer internship with the State Fair’s marketing team based on her post-event coverage.

Example 4: The Rejected Applicant Who Persisted

Tyler Boone applied in 2020 and 2021 but was not selected. Instead of giving up, he began volunteering at the State Fair’s “Fair for All” program, helping distribute free tickets to low-income families. He also started a TikTok series called “Big Tex Tuesdays,” where he shared fun facts about the statue. In 2022, he received an unsolicited invitation after the fair’s marketing team saw his content go viral. He now hosts a monthly podcast on Texas fairs.

Example 5: The Corporate Partner

A regional bank that sponsored the State Fair’s “Texas Made” vendor program received two insider passes each year as part of its partnership agreement. Their employee, Diane Lee, used her access to create a branded content series on the bank’s YouTube channel featuring behind-the-scenes interviews with food vendors. The series increased their local engagement by 40% and earned them a regional marketing award.

FAQs

Is Big Tex Insider Day open to the general public?

No. Big Tex Insider Day is an exclusive, invitation-only event. It is not open for public registration or ticket purchase. Attendance is limited to pre-selected individuals based on media status, community involvement, or partnership with the State Fair of Texas.

Can I buy a ticket to Big Tex Insider Day?

No. There are no tickets for sale. Any website, social media post, or individual offering to sell access to Big Tex Insider Day is fraudulent. The State Fair of Texas does not monetize this event.

How do I know if I’m eligible?

You may be eligible if you are a media professional, nonprofit leader, long-time fairgoer (five+ years), vendor partner, or community advocate with documented involvement in Texas culture. Review the eligibility criteria in this guide and ensure your qualifications align.

When is Big Tex Insider Day held?

It typically occurs one to two days before the official opening of the State Fair of Texas, which begins in late September. Exact dates vary yearly but are announced in mid-July.

Do I need to bring anything specific?

Yes. Bring a government-issued photo ID, a water bottle, sunscreen, and closed-toe shoes. Cameras are allowed, but professional equipment requires prior approval. No large bags or backpacks are permitted.

Can I bring a guest?

No. Each invitation is for one person only. Bringing uninvited guests is strictly prohibited and may result in immediate removal and future disqualification.

What if I’m not selected one year? Can I apply again?

Yes. Many attendees were not selected on their first attempt. Continue building your profile, attend the fair annually, and reapply each year. Persistence and consistent engagement significantly increase your chances.

Will I get to touch Big Tex?

Generally, no. Big Tex is a delicate, historically significant structure. However, you may be invited to stand beside him, take photos, or observe the restoration team at work. Touching is not permitted unless explicitly authorized by a fair official.

Can I record video or take photos?

Yes. Photography and videography are encouraged—within reason. Avoid flash photography near sensitive equipment. Always ask before recording interviews with staff. Your content may be featured by the State Fair on their platforms.

Is there an age requirement?

Attendees must be at least 16 years old. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is also invited.

What happens if I’m late?

Check-in closes 15 minutes before the tour begins. Late arrivals may miss critical portions of the event and will not be granted re-entry. Plan to arrive early.

Can I apply for Big Tex Insider Day if I live outside Texas?

Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria. Many out-of-state media members and cultural advocates have been selected. However, preference is often given to those with strong ties to the Dallas-Fort Worth community.

How many people attend Big Tex Insider Day?

Typically between 75 and 100 individuals. The event is intentionally small to ensure a personalized, high-quality experience.

Will I get free food?

Yes. Attendees receive complimentary tastings of signature fair foods, including the famous Big Tex Fried Coke, corn dogs, and novelty treats. However, full meals are not provided.

Can I use my experience for a school project or thesis?

Yes. Many students have used their Insider Day experience as primary research for academic projects on cultural heritage, event management, or media studies. Contact the State Fair’s media relations team for permission to use official materials.

Conclusion

Big Tex Insider Day is not just a tour—it’s a rite of passage for those who cherish the spirit of the State Fair of Texas. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the heart of a tradition that has endured for over 100 years, to meet the people who keep it alive, and to become part of its ongoing story. While the process is selective, it is not impossible. With preparation, persistence, and genuine passion for Texas culture, you can transform from an observer into an insider.

This guide has provided you with every tool, step, and insight needed to navigate the application process, prepare for the day, and maximize your experience. But remember: the most important ingredient is not strategy—it’s sincerity. The selection committee isn’t just looking for followers or influencers. They’re looking for storytellers. People who understand that Big Tex isn’t just metal and fiberglass—he’s a symbol of resilience, community, and Texan pride.

Start today. Subscribe to the newsletter. Follow the social accounts. Document your fair memories. Engage with the culture. Build your story. And when the invitation comes next July, you won’t just be ready—you’ll deserve it.