The State Fair of Texas, often dubbed as the Most Texan Place on Earth, has proven to be a captivating experience for newcomers and returning visitors alike.
Editors Bobby Caina Calvan and Javier E. David from The Dallas Morning News recently took on the challenge of exploring this annual extravaganza to see if it truly lives up to the hype.
Javier E. David, who moved to Dallas in 2024 after spending nearly three decades in Brooklyn, found the fair to be a delightful mix of nostalgia and excitement.
He admitted that despite being unenthusiastic about large crowds, he was immediately taken by the vibrant atmosphere filled with bright lights, tantalizing smells, and the unmistakable presence of Big Tex.
David described the fair as a combination of Disney-like fantasy and Las Vegas-like energy, pulling him into experiences reminiscent of his childhood spent at various amusement parks.
Although he acknowledged the well-documented critiques regarding the costs associated with the fair—where admission and food can quickly add up—he ultimately concluded that if one is willing to splurge, the rewards of a day at the fair far outweigh the expenses.
“This old curmudgeon certainly did enjoy himself,” he remarked, indicating that the fair’s charm is undeniable, even for someone cautious about their budget.
On the other hand, Bobby Caina Calvan, who transitioned from a career with the Associated Press in New York to Dallas earlier this year, brought his own perspectives to the fair experience.
Having not attended a state fair in decades, Calvan was apprehensive since he generally prefers to steer clear of crowds and unappealing carnival foods.
However, he turned out to be pleasantly surprised, especially when he discovered the unique appeal of the famed ‘corny dog’—a delectable cornbread-coated hot dog on a stick that he claimed was unlike any he had ever tasted.
In stark contrast to his usual skepticism towards carnival food, Calvan embraced the fair’s offerings, despite getting a bit carried away with cotton candy, which left him feeling slightly overwhelmed.
Echoing his colleague’s sentiment, Calvan underscored that for adults, the experience of visiting a state fair is intrinsically tied to nostalgia—a connection to fond childhood memories involving traditional fair foods, midway games, and vibrant attractions.
Determined to engage fully with the fair, he humorously recounted his reluctance to pay $16 for a Ferris wheel ride, yet he enjoyed the thrill of winning a teddy bear from a balloon-popping game, showcasing a mix of luck and nostalgia.
Both editors agreed that even on a relatively quiet Tuesday night, the fair has a lot to offer, from farm exhibits to a petting zoo, capturing the essence of what makes it a quintessential Texas experience.
They both expressed their aspirations to return before the fair concluded, particularly eager to witness Texas rodeos and, notably, the much-anticipated pig races—a classic highlight that encapsulates the spirit of state fairs.
As they navigated through the crowded grounds, both Calvan and David embraced the sounds, sights, and flavors of the State Fair of Texas, reflecting on how such experiences can bridge the gap between novelty and nostalgia.
In conclusion, the duo’s visit to the State Fair was not just about indulging in corny dogs and rides, but also about rekindling memories and creating new ones, all while embracing the vibrant culture that defines Texas.
image source from：dallasnews
