What is the Safest Day for a Family to Attend the Texas State Fair?

September 9, 2025 – The State Fair of Texas, one of the largest and most popular fairs in the nation, attracts millions of visitors each year. For families planning their trip, safety and comfort are often top concerns—especially given the fair’s massive crowds, bustling midway, and late-night entertainment options.

Click here for up-to-date safety information provided by the State Fair of Texas.

Traditionally, weekdays—especially Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays—are considered the safest and most family-friendly days to attend. These days see smaller crowds compared to weekends, making it easier to navigate the fairgrounds, keep children close, and enjoy attractions without long waits. Law enforcement and fair organizers also note that disturbances, when they occur, are more common during peak evening hours and on weekends, when unsupervised groups of teenagers tend to gather in larger numbers.

The October 2023 shooting at the State Fair of Texas, where Cameron Turner injured three people in a dispute at a food court, occurred on a Saturday night.

Attending earlier in the day is another important factor. Families who arrive in the morning or early afternoon can enjoy rides, exhibits, livestock shows, and kid-friendly performances before the evening rush begins. The fair has increased its police presence, security checkpoints, and surveillance, but parents are still encouraged to plan ahead, designate meeting spots, and keep an eye on children at all times.

With these considerations, the safest and most enjoyable option for families is to plan a weekday morning or afternoon visit, ideally Tuesday through Thursday. Not only will the crowds be lighter, but families can also take advantage of discounted admission and ride specials often offered on these days.

By choosing the right day and time, families can enjoy the best of the fair in a relaxed and secure environment.