Texans Helping Texans
Every ticket purchased to the State Fair of Texas helps make our year-round giving possible. Through scholarships, youth development programs, community grants, and investments in Fair Park, the State Fair of Texas proudly gives back to the communities we serve. In 2025 alone, the State Fair of Texas contributed more than $12.4 million through philanthropic and Fair Park giving, supporting scholarships, youth development, community initiatives, and investments that strengthen Texas communities year-round.
The State Fair of Texas has been bringing Texans together for 140 years, but our impact extends far beyond the annual exposition. Through scholarships, youth development programs, and community investments, the State Fair creates educational opportunities for students across Texas. From Dallas ISD students attending the six high schools closest to Fair Park to youth livestock exhibitors representing communities throughout the state, we are committed to helping the next generation achieve their goals and build brighter futures.
Education has long been at the heart of the State Fair of Texas mission. Through the Big Tex Scholarship Program and the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction, the State Fair invests in students whose hard work, determination, and leadership exemplify the values that strengthen our communities.
The State Fair proudly provides scholarships to graduating seniors from the six Dallas ISD high schools nearest Fair Park, helping remove financial barriers and create pathways to higher education for students in our own backyard. These scholarships reflect our longstanding commitment to being a good neighbor and supporting the South Dallas community we have called home for generations.
At the same time, the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction celebrates the achievements of young agricultural leaders from across the Lone Star State. Through the generosity of donors and buyers, students who have dedicated months of effort to raising and exhibiting livestock receive financial support to further their education and pursue future opportunities.
Together, these programs ensure that students from both urban and rural communities have access to resources that can transform their futures.
Every gift made through North Texas Giving Day helps create educational opportunities and open doors for Texas students.
Funds raised support:
• Scholarships for graduating seniors from the six Dallas ISD high schools closest to Fair Park.
• Educational opportunities for youth livestock exhibitors from communities across Texas.
• College and career pathways that help students achieve their goals.
• Programs that recognize leadership, responsibility, hard work, and academic achievement.
• The State Fair of Texas' year-round mission of investing in Texas youth and strengthening communities.
Every fall, millions of guests visit the State Fair of Texas. What many don't realize is that their support helps create opportunities for students year-round. From South Dallas classrooms to livestock barns across the Lone Star State, the State Fair is helping the next generation of Texans pursue their dreams, achieve their educational goals, and build brighter futures.
When you give to the State Fair of Texas, you help Texans help Texans, creating opportunities that will impact students, families, and communities for generations to come.
Since its inception in 1886, the State Fair of Texas has celebrated all things Texan by promoting agriculture, education, and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment. The State Fair of Texas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with proceeds helping to preserve and improve our home, Fair Park; underwrite museums, community initiatives, and scholarship programs to support students throughout the Lone Star State pursuing higher education; and help improve State Fair operations. Visit BigTex.com for more information.
The State Fair of Texas is committed to creating a fun and family-friendly atmosphere for our hardworking team, just as we do for the guests we serve. We believe that a positive and supportive environment empowers our staff to do their best work. Our organizational culture ensures that all employees feel valued, represented, and welcome, with their ideas and perspectives considered and their contributions recognized. This fosters a sense of empowerment and confidence that propels our team forward, both personally and professionally. While we embrace a culture of celebration and connection, we remain deeply focused on our mission, ensuring every effort aligns with our purpose and values. We continually explore ways to integrate these principles into every aspect of our operations, striving to create a workplace, environment, and event where everyone is respected, included, and motivated to contribute to our shared goals and lasting impact in the community.
Organization name
State Fair of Texas
Causes
Community Improvement
Operating Budget
$10,000,000 or more
Counties Served
Hunt, Wise, Tarrant, Somervell, Rockwall, Parker, Palo Pinto, Navarro, Montague, Kaufman, Johnson, Hood, Grayson, Fannin, Erath, Ellis, Denton, Dallas, Cooke, Collin
BIPOC Leadership
Board Chair
Address
PO Box 150009 State Fair of Texas