High prices — as much as $350 for a family of four — are causing some people to skip the State Fair of Texas this year, according to Dallas television station WFAA. Early in its 24-day run, the fair seems to be experiencing sparse attendance.
“I couldn’t help but notice how scant the crowds were,” content creator Jared Guynes, who visits the fair annually, told WFAA. “It was alarming to me as a visitor to see.”
Adult admission costs between $15 and $25, depending on the day. Parking runs about $30. Popular snacks range from $7 to $20. So the cost of a day at the fair can add up quickly.
Social media debate
Guynes shared pictures and footage of his visit on social media, leading to debate among his thousands of followers about attendance and rising prices.
“What I ended up accidentally cracking open was a lot of frustration that people have that they can’t go to the fair because of how much it costs,” Guynes told WFAA. “Because of how much coupons are, how much the rides and food are. People are saying they don’t want to have to choose between paying their rent and going to the fair.”
“The money just isn’t available for a whole lot of people to have the experience at the fair that they feel their family would deserve,” he added.
Fair officials acknowledge social media posts
Fair officials say they’re aware of the complaints on social media. However, they say talk of the fair’s demise is premature.
“Of course, we’ve seen the posts, and it’s disheartening,” Taylor Pulfer, the fair’s communications director, told WFAA. “The State Fair of Texas isn’t immune to whatever is going on in the world, and that includes inflation and the economy. Our vendors set their own prices for things, and they have to make from a business perspective what makes sense for them.”
Discounts available
Officials also note that the fair offers more than 100 free activities, and attendees are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. Discounts are also available:
- Tuesdays and Thursdays are Dr. Pepper Value Days, when admission is cheaper.
- On Wednesdays, visitors may get $5 off admission by donating five canned goods to the North Texas Food Bank.
- After 5 p.m. each day, adult admission prices are the same as for children. Kids under 2 are always free.
Attendance not a concern right now
Fair officials also said they aren’t particularly concerned yet with the low attendance numbers. They say visits typically start off slow.
However, they acknowledge that times are tough for many families with inflation, higher prices due to tariffs and a weaker job market.
“I know that may be some people’s experience, but the truth of the matter is attendance is fine at the State Fair of Texas this year,” fair spokesperson Karissa Condoianis told CBS News. “The first eight days of the fair are usually our slowest days. Then, as the fair carries on for the rest of the 24 days, that’s when you see the energy and traffic at the fair really pick up.”
