The State Fair of Texas is implementing sweeping security changes for 2025, with new clear bag rules, advanced weapon scanners, and stricter youth supervision policies. The move follows recent security incidents at the annual event.
The measures represent one of the largest security overhauls in the fair’s history. More than 2 million visitors are expected to experience the changes when gates open in just weeks.
All attendees will now pass through OPENGATE® detection systems. The devices scan both people and bags for weapons. The technology replaces older methods and will operate at every entrance to Fair Park.
“We are constantly evaluating our security plan with the Dallas Police Department (DPD) and the Fair’s other security partners to adopt the most up-to-date recommended security practices for special events of our scope and size, and regularly implement additional measures to increase our effectiveness,” fair officials stated.
The new clear bag policy requires visitors to carry only transparent bags. Medical and parenting bags will still be permitted after inspection. Fair organizers are also redesigning pedestrian gates to help maintain smoother access.
Firearms remain prohibited for all attendees under current Fair rules, including those with concealed carry licenses. Only credentialed peace officers may bring weapons onto the grounds. Earlier this year, state lawmakers advanced Senate Bill 1065 to overturn the ban, but the bill stalled in the Texas House after passing the Senate. Meanwhile, a Dallas County judge dismissed Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawsuit challenging the Fair’s firearms policy in June, leaving the ban in place for 2025.
“Every year, the State Fair of Texas has an ongoing safety and security assessment, adding and adjusting security measures to ensure a safe environment for all fairgoers, employees, and vendors. For us to continue offering a safe event for all, we feel this is an important measure to implement,” officials explained.
New rules also tighten supervision for minors. Starting at 5 p.m. daily, anyone 17 or younger must have a chaperone who is at least 21. Each adult supervisor may oversee no more than six minors.
The enhancements include added surveillance technology and a more visible police presence throughout the fairgrounds. Officials connected the changes to recent security incidents but did not provide details about specific events.
The 2025 State Fair of Texas joins a growing number of major public events nationwide with similar protocols. With more than 2 million expected visitors, the Fair will test whether the new security plan can balance safety with the smooth flow of crowds.