Everything is bigger in Texas...right? What better way to celebrate the "Big 4-0" than in Texas. I'm so happy my BFF talked me into facing 40 head-on with a big celebration and I'm such a lucky girl to have so many wonderful friends and family that not only made by birthday special but every day special as well.
I was thrilled that everything worked out so I could go to the State Fair of Texas with my friend Tiffany and her family. I haven't been in years, and its always been one of my favorite things to do. I used to work right across the street from Fair Park and often the lovely ladies would let us in for free to have lunch. But having moved away from my native Texas I appreciate the fair so much more. While there are many other State Fair's across the country there is nothing like "The Great State Fair of Texas." |
The Old Howard Wolf Building on Parry Avenue---my old office |
Fair Park
Living in East Dallas after college, I developed a love for all things Art Deco. Fair Park is recognized as a significant example of Art Deco architecture. Most of the buildings were erected for the 1936 Texas Centennial and many of the design elements have been restored to their original splendor while the inside of the buildings have been updated with modern amenities.
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The Women's Museum, Fair Park-Dallas, Texas |
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Art Deco mural-Fair Park, Dallas, Texas |
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Art Deco Mural, Fair Park, Dallas, Texas |
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The prestigious Cotton Bowl, Fair Park, Dallas, Texas |
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A Texas Aggie (gig'em) and a Texas Tech Red Raider (wreck'em) in front of the Cotton Bowl |
The FoodNo visit to the State Fair of Texas would be complete without indulging in a little (often lo-brow) "fair food." While it was possible to find everything from "Fried Butter" to "Fried Beer" to "Chicken Fried Bacon" to "Fried Ding-Dongs," I opted for a few old favorites. |
Roasted Corn on the Cob with lots of butter and cheese |
All Things FriedThe MidwayYou gotta have your picture taken with Big Tex, and you have to ride the Ferris Wheel, "The Texas Star;" it's the largest Ferris Wheel in North America. Even though the rides are over priced, you've got a ride a couple, especially when your oldest and dearest friend dares you; or her lovely daughter ask you to go with her. |
The Fashionable Traveler and the "Petite Fashionable Traveler" in front of Big Tex, State Fair of Texas |
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The Log Ride is so refreshing-The State Fair of Texas |
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The view atop the "Texas Star" |
All the RestThere is something for everyone at the State Fair of Texas from the petting zoo, livestock shows, pig races, and stunt dogs, as well as plenty of entertainment.
If you find yourself in Dallas before October 23, 2011, be sure and check out the State Fair |
I'm not sure what prize this chicken won, but I hope it was for "Best Hat" |