Texas claims many icons of people or places so closely linked to the Lone Star State that you instantly picture them when they’re mentioned. Brands like Buc-ees, Dr Pepper®, Whataburger, Blue Bell® Ice Cream, or Big Tex© are all modern-day Texas icons. While Stephen F. Austin, Davy Crockett, Sam Houston, and other early leaders helped lay the foundation for our beloved state.
The 2020 State Fair of Texas celebrates those larger-than-life Texas icons at the state’s most celebrated exposition. This year’s state fair, held deep in the heart of Dallas at historic Fair Park, runs September 25-October 18. The theme of the 2020 State Fair of Texas is “Celebrating Texas Icons.”
Photo: Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas
When we hear armadillos, bluebonnets, prickly pear cactus, or “yellow rose” mentioned, we instantly think of Texas. Our passionate football fans all know what Friday night lights mean, and college mascots like Bevo are part of our lingo. We know the Red River Showdown between Texas and Oklahoma means huge crowds at the fair. Professional teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Oilers draw us to stadiums or TV screens on Sunday afternoons each fall. Texans share a love for the game of football, no matter which team we support.
We are also proud of talented musicians like our own legendary Country Music Outlaw Willie Nelson. Nora Jones, the Dixie Chicks, George Strait, and Stevie Ray Vaughn are all Texas icons. So are actors like Eva Longoria, Tommy Lee Jones, Sissy Spacek, and Matthew McConaughey.
Photo: Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas
Our state can boast of three past presidents: Lyndon B. Johnson, George Bush, and George W. Bush. Activists like Barbara Jordan and Juanita J. Craft were true Texas icons. Larger-than-life innovators like Carroll Shelby, and over-sized honky-tonks like Billy Bob’s Texas and Gilley’s show our state’s broad impact on modern-day culture.
Photo: State Fair of Texas
The 2020 artwork and logos for the State Fair of Texas highlight iconic imagery of the Lone Star State. Oil derricks, mockingbirds, bluebonnets, armadillos, and the 55-foot cowboy himself, Big Tex, are all featured.
Since 1886, the State Fair of Texas has celebrated all things Texan. The fair promotes agriculture, education, and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment. The nonprofit organization’s proceeds help preserve and improve Fair Park. Proceeds also underwrite museums, community initiatives, and scholarship programs. They support students throughout the state pursuing higher education. Visit BigTex.com for more information.
