• Guide

    Mark your calendars, folks, the Central Texas State Fair is back at the Cadence Bank Center on August 28-31. Whether you’re here for the concerts, the carnival rides, or fried Oreos, this year’s fair is packed with something for all ages!

    We’re talking four nights of music, adrenaline-pumping arena events, barnyard fun, wild shows, shopping, and ALL the fair food you can handle. 

    Let’s break it down so you don’t miss a single moment 

  • Live Nightly Concerts

    Every night of the fair ends with a live outdoor concert under the Texas sky. The concerts are included with admission to the fairgrounds. Who’s taking the stage?

    SmashMouth

    Thursday, August 28. 

    Kicking off the fair festivities on Thursday night is SmashMouth. Enjoy 90s throwbacks with "All Star" energy.

    Los Rieleros Del Norte

    Friday, August 29.

    Enjoy live music after the Twisted Metal Mayhem Demo Derby on Friday. Los Rieleros Del Norte offers a night of Norteño music you can two-step to until the lights go down.

    Niko Moon

    Saturday, August 30.

    After the PBR Challenger Series, catch Niko Moon singing some country-pop tunes that will have you singing along to "Good Time."

    Switchfoot

    Sunday, August 31.

    "We Were Meant to Live" under the beautiful Texas sky at the Central Texas State Fair. Taking place after the PBR Challenger Series, join Switchfoot for an incredible performance that will leave you amped up and asking yourself, When can we see them again?

    Fair Facts: Bring your dancing shoes. The stage is outdoors, the energy is high, and the music doesn’t cost you extra!

  • Rides, Games, & Fair Food

    It’s not a fair without neon lights, cotton candy, and rides that get your heart racing!

    The carnival is open nightly during the fair. 

    Specials: 

    • On Thursday night enjoy rides for $1 each. Save money while still enjoying the most of the fair. Stop by the booth and grab ride tickets. 
    • Unlimited Ride Wristband: Buy early to save.

    Snack like a pro: 

    • Turkey legs bigger than your head 

    • Fried Oreos & funnel cakes 

    • Lemonade 

    • Giant corn dogs 

  • Arena Thrills

    Buckle up, the arena is where things get loud, dusty, and downright thrilling:

    Demolition Derby

    • August 29
    • Watch cars crash, smash, and fight for survival.

    PBR Challenger Series 

    • August 30 and 31
    • The world's best bull riders face off against 2,000 pounds of attitude.

  • Mutton Bustin’ Championships

    Think bull riding, but for kids and sheep! Talk about the cutest mashup around.

    Muttin Bustin Tryouts:

    • Thursday and Friday nights
    • Top 20 riders each night move on to the championship round.
    • Final showdown takes place during PBR weekend:
      • Winner takes home a shiny First Place Buckle.
    • Fun to watch and fun to cheer on! Nothing says "Texas Fair" quite like pint-sized cowboys hanging on for dear life.

  • The Village – Family Central

    Head to the Exposition Building and you’ll find a hub of family-friendly magic.

    Enjoy daily live stage entertainment and shows, a petting zoo and pony rides, a mutton bustin' arena, shopping vendors, and a bar for the grown-ups.

    Fair Facts: The Village is perfect for a shaded break and kid-approved fun. Fill the day with family-friendly activities for all.

     

    Special Attractions

    The Central Texas State Fair is bringing back the jaw-droppers and thrill-seekers you know and love:

    • All American High Dive Show
    • The Fearless Flores Thrill Show
    • Tomahawk Axe Throwing
    • Food trucks and vendors galore
    • livestock show 

      • August 30 in the Equine Livestock Complex, where local youth and exhibitors compete.

    Plus, brand new for 2025: 

    • Swifty Swine Pig Races – You’ll never look at bacon the same way again.

    • Mutton Bustin’ Championships – Bigger, bolder, and buckle-worthy!

  • Marketplace & Food

    • Assembly Hall Marketplace – Commercial vendors + bar (yes, shopping and sipping).

    • Food Trucks & Fair Snacks – From brisket nachos to fried pickles.

    • Commercial Vendors Across the Grounds – The perfect place to score something quirky and cool.

  • Tickets 101

    General Admission Includes:

    • Access to the fairgrounds
    • nightly outdoor concerts
    • all special attractions
      • pig races, petting zoo, shows, etc.
    • exposition building fun and shopping

    Specialty Tickets

    • PBR and Demo Derby

    • Arena entry plus full fairground access

    Want to go big? Get a carnival wristband or hit up the $1 ride night on Thursday.

  • Plan Your Visit

    Date and Location:

    • ​Cadence Bank Center, August 28-31

    Concerts:

    • Smash Mouth, Los Rieleros del Norte, Niko Moon, Switchfoot

    Can’t-Miss:

    • $1 ride night (Thursday), Pig Races, PBR Challenger Series

    Quick Tips

    • Buy tickets online early
    • wear comfy shoes
    • bring cash
    • pick your concert night or stay for them all
    • don't forget sunscreen and a hat