Dallas teens to receive free weekday admission to the State Fair of Texas through new partnership
Dallas, Texas – Dallas teens will soon have a new way to experience one of the city’s most iconic traditions at no cost, thanks to a new partnership aimed at expanding access to cultural and recreational opportunities. The Dallas Park and Recreation Department has announced that the State Fair of Texas is joining its Teen All-Access Pass Program, giving participating teens free weekday admission to the Fair later this year.
Under the partnership, teens who take part in the department’s Teen All-Access Pass Program this summer will receive one-time admission to the State Fair of Texas, valid on any Monday through Friday during the Fair’s 24-day run in the fall. Officials say the goal is to remove cost barriers and help young people take part in meaningful, memorable experiences across the city.
Expanding access through community partnerships
Leaders with Dallas Park and Recreation said they are excited to welcome the State Fair of Texas as a program partner.
“We’re excited to welcome the State Fair of Texas as a partner in our Teen All-Access Pass Program. They’ve been a longtime partner with us on other projects, and we’re grateful to work with them to support Dallas youth,” said Crystal R. Ross, Senior Deputy Director. “Giving teens free admission to a Texas tradition like the State Fair and the iconic Fair Park means more opportunities for them to create unforgettable fun and experiences. We appreciate the State Fair’s commitment to our community.”
Now in its sixth year, the Teen All-Access Pass Program offers Dallas residents ages 13 to 17 complimentary admission to a wide range of cultural, educational, and recreational attractions. Since the program began, the department has distributed more than 25,000 passes, helping thousands of teens explore the city in safe and engaging ways.
The State Fair of Texas joins a growing list of well-known organizations that already support the program. Partner attractions include the Dallas Arboretum, Perot Museum, Dallas Zoo, Dallas Museum of Art, Sixth Floor Museum, Shakespeare Dallas, Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, and the Trinity River Audubon Center. Several City of Dallas venues also participate, including the Dallas Library, Bahama Beach Waterpark, Southern Skates Roller Rink, and the Bath House, Latino, South Dallas, and Oak Cliff cultural centers.
Officials say the program plays an important role in keeping teens active, engaged, and safe during the summer months, when structured activities can be harder to find. It also highlights Dallas Park and Recreation’s observance of Park and Recreation Month in July, a national effort that recognizes the value of public parks, recreation spaces, and the professionals who operate programs year-round.
The State Fair of Texas said it is eager to welcome teens through the program and hopes the partnership will help the initiative grow.
“We look forward to welcoming Dallas teens to the State Fair through this program and we hope that our participation might lead to increased growth in the overall program,” said Mitchell Glieber, president of the State Fair of Texas.
More information about pass distribution and participating venues will be released in early summer at DallasParks.org. The 2026 State Fair of Texas is scheduled to run from Friday, September 25 through Sunday, October 18 at Fair Park, giving Dallas teens a free opportunity to enjoy a cherished Texas tradition.
