September 3, 2026 – DALLAS – The State Fair of Texas is doubling down on wholesome family entertainment for its 2026 season with the launch of two brand-new dedicated youth zones: Little Lone Stars Land and a completely overhauled Kidway.
Announced by fair officials, the dynamic additions arrive as part of a broader, multi-year campaign to restore a safe, welcoming, and high-value atmosphere for Texas families. In recent years, organizers have actively worked to revitalize the fairgrounds following high-profile safety concerns, including a 2023 food court shooting that prompted strict firearm bans, along with updated minor curfews to curb incidents involving unattended youth. The new 2026 child-focused attractions underscore a renewed focus on making the state’s flagship event feel secure, accessible, and magical for its youngest attendees.
A Safe Haven for the Fair’s Youngest Guests
Specifically tailored for toddlers and early elementary children, Little Lone Stars Land offers a dedicated haven located conveniently near the Gurley Gate and Craft Pavilion. The area merges kid-friendly rides, low-cost food, play spaces, and live entertainment into one centralized, easy-to-navigate hub.
“We know that some of the most memorable State Fair experiences begin when our youngest Fairgoers see their first ride, meet a favorite character, or discover something that makes them smile,” said Mitchell Glieber, President of the State Fair of Texas. “Little Lone Stars Land and the reimagined Kidway give families even more opportunities to create those memories together.”
Highlights of Little Lone Stars Land include:
- Affordable Rides & Games: Standard kiddie rides require just four coupons (dropping to three on Tuesdays), while games are priced at 10 coupons.
- The Coop Play Area: A safe, fenced playground built specifically for toddlers and preschoolers to explore at their own pace.
- Interactive Animal Encounters: The beloved Oak Farms Dairy® Petting Zoo has been relocated from the Pan Am Arena to Little Lone Stars Land, allowing young animal lovers up-close access to furry friends.
- Live Family Entertainment:The Fringe Stage—now relocated next to the new land—will host daily street performances, including crowd-pleaser “Mighty Mike” the strongman.
- Budget-Friendly Dining: Exclusive 10-coupon Little Lone Stars Refillable Drinkware (with 5-coupon refills) and value-priced kid meals.
- Roaming Characters: Expanded visual appearances and daily meet-and-greets featuring fair icons Little Big Tex, Amy Dillo, and Champ.
The Kidway Gets an Upgraded Footprint
For children ready for a bit more thrill, the Kidway—located in the heart of the State Fair Midway—has undergone a massive overhaul. Featuring an expanded layout, updated foot traffic paths, and a fresh lineup of family-friendly rides, the area aims to reduce crowding while maximizing fun.
The refreshed Kidway also features value-priced food stands, 5-coupon rides (discounted to 3 coupons on Tuesdays), and daily live performances from the Showstoppers! crew on the Dr Pepper® Kidway Stage.
“Little Lone Stars Land and the Kidway were created with a simple idea in mind: to make the State Fair feel even more magical for our youngest guests,” explained Jason Hays, Senior Vice President of Brand Experience. “Every detail was thoughtfully designed to make these areas feel like their own little piece of the State Fair.”
Reclaiming the Family Experience
The focus on early childhood play and accessible pricing builds directly upon the fair’s stringent security policies implemented over the last two seasons. Following past issues with unruly crowds, youth disturbance, and security breaches, fair leadership introduced a zero-firearms policy, advanced OpenGate screening technology, strict bag size limits, and a strict chaperone policy requiring all minors under 17 to be accompanied by an adult age 21 or older after 5:00 p.m.
By combining strict safety protocols with expanded, dedicated youth zones, the non-profit organization hopes to offer parents peace of mind while continuing to fund statewide scholarships, agricultural education, and community initiatives.
The 2026 State Fair of Texas officially opens on Friday, September 25. Discounted family packages and daily admission tickets are available now at BigTex.com
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