The State Fair of Texas opens Sept. 25, and officials are reminding fairgoers about security measures and rules before heading to Fair Park.
Director of Security, Jeff Cotner Emily Capetillo
Security and what to bring
Visitors will encounter a hardened perimeter and weapons-detection technology at pedestrian entrances. Bags, strollers, wagons and coolers are subject to inspection.
Clear bags are not required, but the fair strongly encourages visitors to bring one to speed up screening. Medical and parenting bags are allowed after inspection. Soft-shell coolers are permitted, but loose ice is not. Ice packs or bagged ice are allowed.
Jeff Cotner, the State Fair's director of security, says visitors should plan ahead.
“Please plan accordingly, and be patient throughout the entry process. These procedures are in place to ensure safe access for all guests.”
There are no lockers or bag checks. Guests with prohibited items must return them to their vehicles.
Firearms and weapons
The State Fair's weapons policy remains unchanged.
Firearms and most knives are prohibited on the fairgrounds, including the Cotton Bowl. The policy applies even to people with concealed-carry, open-carry or constitutional-carry rights.
The policy does not apply to current peace officers or qualified retired peace officers whose credentials are verified during screening.
Teens and families after 5 p.m.
Beginning at 5 p.m. daily, anyone 17 or younger must enter with a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 21.
The adult must show valid identification and can accompany no more than six minors.
Once inside, the adult does not have to stay with the minors, but officials encourage families to remain in communication.
Deputy Chief Sam Ismail of Dallas Police says minors already inside before 5 p.m. are not automatically removed. Officials can take action if their behavior violates the fair's guest code of conduct.
Police and emergency response
Dallas Police will have more than 250 personnel on the grounds each day, including officers handling crowd and traffic control and specialized operations.
The fair also operates a 24/7 command center coordinating State Fair operations, police, fire and other public-safety partners.
Dallas Fire-Rescue will have two first-aid locations and emergency personnel throughout Fair Park.
Chris Chiara, section chief of EMS operations, says visitors should prepare for the heat.
“We encourage all fairgoers to plan ahead by staying hydrated before and during their visit to the State Fair of Texas.”
Officials also remind visitors to monitor weather alerts and follow emergency announcements.
Fairgoers are encouraged to “see something, say something” by reporting concerns to police, State Fair safety personnel or through reporting information posted around the grounds.
The State Fair of Texas runs Sept. 25 through Oct. 18.
