State Fair of Texas Makes Major Changes for 2019, Including the Return of the Birds

More Selfies, More Rides and More Magic Promised

BY Megan Ziots

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Mighty Mike will be performing at the State Fair of Texas this year. Courtesy of State Fair of Texas

World of Birds is back after six years. Courtesy of State Fair of Texas

The birds are back. (Courtesy of State Fair of Texas)

The State Fair of Texas is almost here.

The State Fair of Texas weighs in with major new attractions. Running through October 20th, the fair has brought back the birds and introduced several new shows and rides.

After a six-year break, the fair is reintroducing The World of Birds Show. “SOAR” is being presented by Steve Martin, who brings an array of birds from all over the world. New species will be released at the ferris wheel and fly over guests’ heads.

World of Birds 2 — The birds are back. (Courtesy of State Fair of Texas)

There is also a “selfie stroll,” which consists of 10 shipping containers called “Contain Yourself(ie).” Painted shipping containers, aligned with the “Celebrating Texas Creativity” theme of this year’s fair, feature artwork by local artists.

Mighty Mike is also at the state fair, showing off his strength and comedic timing. The “Mighty Mike Show” features Mike’s horseshoe bending and bowling ball and sledgehammer juggling skills. He showcases strongman techniques from the 1920s while making the audience laugh.

An all new family-friendly event this year is the “!Fiestas de Marionetas!” A show for all ages, it features more than 85 handmade marionette dolls surrounded by lights and a small village landscape.

Another new show is called “Splashdance!” Dancers and acrobats perform in front of the Esplanade fountains, set to festive music. Casa de Chocolate is an exhibit offering fairgoers a glimpse into the origin of chocolate. Presented by Mundo Latino, this can be found inside of the Women’s Museum.

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Seven new rides include the Dancing Clown, Tilt-A-Whirl, and Satori Yachts for kids. And Crazy Surf, Beach Party, Moon Raker and Skyliner are for the thrill seekers.

There are also a few new art displays, including the Texas Cinema exhibit, “Fair Focus: The Photography of Kevin Brown,” and The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection.

This year’s musical acts include lots of country rockers, including Big & Rich, Billy Ray Cyrus, Daughtry and Bob Schneider.

The 2019 State Fair of Texas will run at Fair Park through October 20.