The State Fair of Texas Midway from SMU-TV on Vimeo.
The State Fair is one of Texas’ most anticipated events. A large part of the Fair’s appeal comes from the rides and games on the Midway. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or looking to enjoy a pretty view, the state fair midway has something for everyone. The midway features more than 70 rides, including the iconic 250- foot Texas Star Ferris Wheel and the Texas Skyway.
“The midway is the fun and excitement of the whole fair. We’ve got a bunch of rides for all ages, we’ve got kiddie rides, adult rides and extreme rides on the midway,” said Vice President of Operations Rusty Fitzgerald.
Fairgoer Donny Boelter said, “My favorite ride at the Midway is the slingshot.” But the fun doesn’t just stop at the rides.
“We also have a lot of games on the Midway where you can win a bunch of stuffed animals and of course the food; the food’s a big part of the Fair and almost everything we have food wise is available here on the Midway,” said Fitzgerald.
“Games are also a main attraction at the Midway. One million dollars worth of game prizes are ordered to give out each year, ensuring that everyone has a prize to take home,” said SMU-TVs Alexandra Spitzer.
State Fair employee Craig Berry said, “The most popular game is the one where I am right now, it’s the balloon game. It’s the hottest thing going.”
Midway set-up begins as early as June. And safety is the top priority when dealing with all the rides. The Fair has five safety inspectors who inspect the rides when they arrive, as they’re setting up and when they’re open- they also preform daily inspections. “We go above and beyond what the state requirements for safety and inspections are,” said Fitzgerald.
The State Fair Midway provides fun and adventure for people of all ages, making it one of Texas’ most popular attractions. The Midway is open every day of the week at 10 a.m. until the State Fair’s closing day on October 19. Rides and games are paid with coupons that can be purchased for fifty cents at coupon booths throughout the fairgrounds. The average ride is ten to twelve coupons.
