The smell of roasted corn, the sound of carnival rides, and the sight of Big Tex waving above Fair Park—it can only mean one thing: the State Fair of Texas is back. From September 26 to October 19, 2025, Dallas will once again host one of the biggest and most beloved fairs in the country.
While the rides, concerts, and livestock shows bring the crowds, the real star is the food—and this year, the spotlight shines on the gluten-free Texas State Fair menu that proves you don’t need fried dough to enjoy a feast.
Tickets and Passes
If you plan to visit more than once, the Season Pass is your best deal. For $62, you get unlimited daily entry and even a free weekday “Bring-A-Friend” ticket. Digital passes cost $52 and are convenient, but don’t include extras.
One-day tickets range from $19 to $29 depending on the day. FLEX tickets cost $29 each and can be used on any day of the fair. Combo packs bundle admission with food coupons, giving you more value if you’re going with friends.
Discounts are available for military, first responders, and anyone with McDonald’s vouchers. These bring prices down to $14–$24. If you plan smart, you can save big before even stepping through the gates.
Gluten-Free Choices: A Food Tour
The fair is famous for fried food, but gluten-free eaters won’t feel left out. The gluten-free Texas State Fair offerings now cover nearly every craving, from brisket kabobs to mango smoothies. It’s easier than ever to plan a full day of eating without worry.
Start light with fresh fruit from Fruteria Cano or La Huasteca. Their mango on a stick, piña colada smoothies, and strawberries with cream are refreshing choices. These stands also offer aguas frescas in lime, tamarind, and watermelon flavors.
Protein lovers should head to Backyard Steak Out or Texas Steak Out. Kabobs, turkey legs, brisket dinners, and bacon-wrapped pork belly are all on the menu. Pair them with roasted corn or a stuffed baked potato for a hearty, filling meal.
Hans Mueller brings German-inspired flavors with sausage, sauerkraut, and smoked turkey legs. Their potato salad is naturally gluten-free and makes a strong side. If you want something easy to eat while walking, grab a sausage on a stick.
Fries Taters and Crunch
Fair food isn’t complete without potatoes. At Jack’s French Frys, you’ll find elotes, curly fries, and baskets of golden fries. Get Fried ups the fun with ruffle ribbon fries and steak kabobs.
Bailey’s is another must-stop for pig poppers and tater tots. Their Good Luck Black-Eyed Pea Soup is also gluten-free, warm, and comforting. These options prove you can snack without worry.
Tater Twisters and Tornado Taters turn potatoes into works of art. Spiraled, crispy, and seasoned, they’re easy to eat on the go. Few fair foods are as photogenic.
Sweet Treats Without Gluten
Desserts are also a highlight of the gluten-free Texas State Fair experience. Sweet Connie’s Candy Apple Shoppe sells candy apples, caramel apples, and chocolate-dipped strawberries. These classic treats are safe, festive, and fun.
Italian ice from Rita’s is another crowd-pleaser. Flavors like mango, strawberry, and watermelon are naturally gluten-free. It’s a lighter option but still feels indulgent.
For something creamy, check the Neighborhood Ice Cream Truck for fruit bars. Stiffler’s Moms Cookie Factory also offers frozen hot chocolate and soft-serve ice cream. Even Newport Stands have gluten-free sweets like chocolate-dipped bananas.
New for 2025: And I Like It
This year, gluten-free gets an upgrade with And I Like It™. They specialize in cheesecake cups, praline-style candied pecans, and peanut butter fudge—all gluten-free and made from scratch. It’s one of the most exciting additions for health-conscious fairgoers.
Find them at the GO TEXAN Pavilion General Store all fair season. From October 8–19, they’ll also host a porch pop-up with their full lineup. This stop should be at the top of every gluten-free visitor’s list.
Tips for Gluten-Free Visitors
Stop at the info desk and ask for the official gluten-free vendor list. It’s the easiest way to plan your food crawl. The fair wants guests to enjoy without limits, and this list makes it simple.
Go early in the day if you want shorter lines at popular food stands. Pair snacks with drinks to stay hydrated. Sharing larger items like turkey legs or stuffed potatoes is smart if you want to taste more.
Final Thoughts
The gluten-free Texas State Fair proves that food traditions can be both inclusive and indulgent. From savory kabobs to fruit cups to decadent cheesecake cups, there’s something for every taste. With so many choices, you’ll eat your way through the fair without compromise.
📍 When: September 26 – October 19, 2025
🎟 Tickets: Available now at BigTex.com/Tickets
🍴 Tip: Ask for the gluten-free vendor list at the info booth to map your food stops.
The fair is built on food, music, and Texas pride. This year, gluten-free eaters get to enjoy every bite of it, too.
If you want to take your food journey even further, book a tour with Incloodie Food Tour and discover more gluten-free flavors across Dallas beyond the fair.