1965 was the year that Big Tex was replaced by his cousin Jose Tex from South Texas. It was also the year that the Swiss Skyride terminated in Jose's left leg. There was a spiral staircase inside the leg and a door in the heel of his boot. As a Big Tex nerd the blue boots made me uneasy that year.

* "BIG TEX" WORLD'S TALLEST COWBOY * Directing State Fair Crowds, Dallas * FAMOUS COTTON BOWL IN BACKGROUND "Big Tex," symbol of the bigness of Texas and the State Fair, is 52 feet tall. His size 70 boots are nearly eight feet high and he wears a 75-gallon cowboy hat. A champion midway ballyhoo expert, Big Tex is directing the vast crowd to the myriads attractions of the Fair, especially the famous Cotton Bowl, where 75,000 football fans respond to his clarion call. John A. Stryker…

Texas State Fair (1967)

Things to do in Dallas, TX

Whether it's your first time or hundredth time to the State Fair of Texas, we could all use some helpful tips on how to guarantee a successful trip.

Visiting Big Tex is my favorite Dallas tradition. Here are my top 20 tips for the State Fair of Texas to help you make the most of your trip!

Texas Star Ferris Wheel, Texas State Fair, Dallas, 2011.

2009 State Fair of Texas