Credit: State Fair of Texas
See stars, stunts, spectacles every single day!
Lights! Thrills! Action! The 122nd State Fair of Texas is going to “Ignite Your Senses” with dazzling displays of brightness and bright ideas from September 26-October 19.
The centerpiece of this glowing extravaganza is Illumination Sensation sponsored by Mattress Firm, a 25-minute light show on the Esplanade that combines pyrotechnics, fire and special visual effects, all choreographed to music. “For many years, we had a laser light show,” recalls Sue Gooding, Director of Marketing/Public Relations for the State Fair of Texas. “Due to popular demand, we are bringing back an even bigger and more glorious light show each evening following the State Fair parade. The sky will be ablaze with color!”
To ignite your adrenalin, look high and low around Gateway Plaza for the world famous Nock Family, a troupe of amazing daredevils making their first appearance at the State Fair of Texas. Don’t blink, because the family’s death-defying stunts—including sway poles (called “the most spectacular thrill act of all time” by some), motorcycle madness, wire walking and an acrobatic cage---will take your breath away.
Then it’s one knock-down after another as Domino Dan precisely builds incredible domino designs…only to topple them in the most fantastic patterns imaginable! “Dan will build a new masterpiece each day of the Fair,” says Ms. Gooding. “Then his creation is toppled at the end of the day, in a rush of music and sound.”
So many more astonishing attractions await.
- “Birds of the World,” everyone’s favorite high-flying animal show, celebrates its 20th year at the State Fair of Texas. You can bet your “sweet beak” that host and trainer Steve Martin will have some very special surprises in store for the occasion.
- Enter the Smart House at the Women’s Museum and see how the very latest time- and energy-saving technologies can ignite big changes in the way we live. Things that seemed far-fetched in smart houses at past State Fairs—like extremely fast-cooking ovens—are now commonplace in many homes and businesses.
- Mundo Latino is a Celebration of Cultures during Hispanic Heritage month at the Hall of State. Now in its 13th year, Mundo Latino’s theme for 2008 is “El Mariachi.” Music, history, photographs, musical instruments, video and artifacts all come together to pay tribute to the history of these colorful entertainers, who originated as street musicians. Mariachis have serenaded generations with trumpets and guitars, and the exhibit will include live performances. A retrospective of Dallas’ Little Mexico area and a mercado (marketplace) of products from Mexico, Spain, Central and South America will also be part of Mundo Latino.
Photo Credit: State Fair of Texas - Oprah Winfrey Presents The Color Purple, this year’s State Fair Musical, will ignite passion, love and many more emotions during its September 30-October 19 run at The Music Hall at Fair Park. “The original Broadway cast will be performing, which makes the musical an especially powerful treat,” says Michael Jenkins, President and Managing Director of the Dallas Summer Musicals. “You will not soon forget this thrilling theatre experience.” Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker and the classic film by Steven Spielberg, The Color Purple is the story of a woman named Celie who finds the strength to triumph over hardships. The saga is particularly riveting when set to a joyous Grammy-nominated score featuring gospel, jazz, pop and the blues.
- You may not recognize the newly renovated Cotton Bowl stadium—with its 92,000 seats (up from 76,000 seats), great new exteriors/interiors, media center and many other enhancements. But three huge games will be played here during the Fair (see other article in this newsletter) and the fans will be in full force!
- Food—did we say Food? It’s one reason folks come to the State Fair, and the delicious concoctions that are introduced each year are just about as popular as legendary Fletcher’s Corny Dogs, funnel cakes and turkey legs. Labor Day’s annual Big Tex Choice contest determines the new entries into the you’re-not-going-to-believe-this realm. Last year’s winners included Fried Cookie Dough (best taste) and Fried Latte (most creative). “These new tastes or twists on existing foods are so outrageous, you’ve just got to come try them,” recommends Ms. Gooding.
- The Wine Garden, a big hit when it debuted last year, returns. Adjacent to the Food and Fiber Pavilion, it’s a great spot to relax while tasting and learning about Texas wines.
Ladies and Gentlemen, there’s more!
Among other highlights that will Ignite Your Senses:
- The State Fair of Texas Annual Auto Show. Everyone will want to see the newest cars with great gas mileage, hybrids and, of course, the ultra luxury automobiles.
- Livestock Shows are going strong after record-breaking auction sales last year.
- New and incredible carnival rides, along with lots of returning favorites like last year’s intro, the Texas SkyWay®!
“With the economy the way it is, families must make tough decisions about spending their entertainment dollar,” states Ms. Gooding. “We at the State Fair of Texas strive to put on the best experience possible for the money.”
Prepare to ignite your senses with all the fiery and fantastic excitement only found at the State Fair of Texas. Big Tex himself will be waitin’ for y’all!
For more information, visit The State Fair of Texas web site.
