Big Tex Urban Farms Marks 10 Years, Surpasses 2 Million Servings for South Dallas
April 2, 2026 – DALLAS, Texas — Big Tex Urban Farms, the State Fair of Texas’ year-round agricultural initiative, is celebrating its 10th anniversary after reaching a major milestone: more than 2 million servings of fresh produce donated to South Dallas communities.
Homegrown Food Justice – We believe in a Dallas where food deserts no longer exist. Where every family, regardless of zip code, has equitable access to nutritious food, the knowledge and resources to cultivate their own healthy produce, and the opportunity to participate in a thriving local food system that promotes community health and economic well-being. – Oak Cliff Veggie Project
Since its launch in 2016, the program has grown from a small collection of planter boxes in a parking lot into a large-scale urban farming operation housed in the Errol McKoy Greenhouse at Fair Park. Today, it produces thousands of pounds of fruits and vegetables annually, all of which are distributed through local nonprofit partners serving families facing food insecurity.
Program leaders say the milestone reflects a decade of steady growth and community impact. Donations have supported a wide network of organizations across South Dallas, including health clinics, food pantries, community development groups, and urban farming initiatives.
Big Tex Urban Farms was created to extend the State Fair’s long-standing focus on agriculture beyond its annual 24-day run. Rooted in the Fair’s more than 140-year history, the program blends traditional farming values with modern techniques like hydroponics and greenhouse production.
Over the years, the initiative has expanded both its output and its educational reach. In addition to food production, the farms host student programs, volunteer opportunities, and public exhibits designed to teach visitors about sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and food systems. A partnership with CityLab High School has provided hands-on training for students interested in urban agriculture careers.
The program has also adapted to challenges, including launching online educational content during the COVID-19 pandemic and introducing new crops like culinary mushrooms to diversify production.
Supporters say Big Tex Urban Farms has become a model for how urban spaces can be used to address food access issues while reconnecting communities with agriculture.
As it enters its second decade, organizers say the focus will remain on expanding food production, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to serve the South Dallas community through innovation and education.
