Last year, about 2.4 million people walked into Fair Park to enjoy the State Fair of Texas.
What many may not know is that it operates as an impactful nonprofit with a mission that extends far beyond the fun.
The Fair supports communities through an impressive range of charitable initiatives focused on education, economic development, and cultural enrichment.
“What makes the State Fair of Texas truly special isn’t just the memories made throughout the fairgrounds, but the impact those moments have in fueling scholarships, supporting families, and building a stronger future,” said State Fair President Mitchell Glieber.
In 2024 alone, the Fair’s Big Tex Scholarship Program contributed more than $1.3 million in new college scholarships.
It also makes significant contributions to various philanthropic causes, critical maintenance in Fair Park, and other community-centered initiatives.
A key component is a commitment to community giving, providing essential grants and sponsorships to nonprofit organizations in the South Dallas/Fair Park area.
The program enhances the capabilities of these organizations while promoting local education and economic development.
“Each year, the State Fair is estimated to generate more than $600 million in economic impact for North Texas, and just as meaningful is the way we give back directly,” said Gilbert Gerst, board chair for the State Fair of Texas. “By supporting local nonprofits and neighborhood programs, we work hand in hand with the community to open doors of opportunity and help South Dallas thrive.”
Since 2018 alone, the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction & Scholarship Programs have awarded $21.4 million to support students across Texas through auction awards and scholarships.
Agriculture is a vital cornerstone of the Fair’s far-reaching educational efforts. The Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction is where thousands of youngsters showcase their animals in a competitive auction.
All proceeds go directly into scholarships and youth development.
In 2024, the Livestock Auction, the Fair’s seventy-sixth such event, raised more than $2 million.
“The Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction is more than a competition. It is a life-changing opportunity for young people across Texas,” said Senior VP of Agriculture & Livestock, Daryl Real.
“To see the hard work of these students recognized in a meaningful way, and to know it directly supports their education and future, is what makes this event so special.”
Since its beginning in 1992, the Big Tex Scholarship Program has awarded over $20.1 million in scholarships to more than 3,700 students around the state.
This year, the State Fair of Texas advanced its commitment to education by awarding 220 new college scholarships.
Texas nonprofits benefit from funding that supports their operational growth.
In addition to financial resources, the Fair strengthens community involvement by partnering with organizations such as the North Texas Food Bank.
Through these collaborations, the Fair helps deliver meals, distribute free admission tickets to local students and educators, and provide teacher curriculum that links classroom learning with Fair experiences.
In addition to the Fair’s Big Tex Urban Farms program, which grows and donates fresh produce to organizations in the neighborhoods surrounding Fair Park, signature initiatives like Feed the Need and Ag Awareness Day have generated hundreds of thousands of pounds of canned goods for the North Texas Food Bank.
“The State Fair is about more than just a few weeks each fall – it’s about showing up for Texans all year long,” said Karissa Condoianis, senior vice president of public relations for the State Fair of Texas. “
From scholarships to strategic partnerships, the State Fair of Texas continues to invest in long-term impact, making it a celebration with a mission that lasts far beyond its annual run.