90s Texas State Fair Had Amazingly Cheap Prices

Ah, the 90s—a time of grunge music, dial-up internet, and, perhaps most importantly, the sweet relief of affordable fun.

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While we may all look back fondly on our childhoods or questionable fashion choices, there’s one thing we miss that doesn’t get nearly enough credit: the ridiculously low prices at the Texas State Fair. The video at the bottom of this article has unearthed old footage from the NBC affiliate in the Dallas/Fort Worth market KXAS channel 5.

Deep-Fried Twinkies

Back in the day, you could walk through the fairgrounds, grab a turkey leg the size of your face, ride the Ferris wheel, and still have enough left over for a deep-fried Twinkie—all without maxing out your credit card. The fair wasn’t just about fried foods and flashy lights; it was about spending a day in a carnival wonderland without having to sell a kidney.

Today’s fairs are a bit of a different story. Sure, they’ve got the same corn dogs and flashy rides, but it all comes at a price that might make you question your life choices. You didn’t have to carefully budget out your fair fun in the 90s. Nope, it was a simple, carefree experience—when spending $20 could keep you entertained for hours, not just minutes.

QR Code and a Side of Regret

What’s even wilder? Parking didn’t cost the same as a small mortgage. You could roll up in your family’s minivan, park right near the entrance, and not feel like you just got swindled. And let’s talk tickets—today’s digital price gouging was unheard of in the 90s. You handed over your cash and got back a stack of tickets, not a receipt with a QR code and a side of regret.

The truth is, while the Texas State Fair may still be fun, the magic of the 90s wasn’t just in the oversized stuffed animals or the giant butter sculptures. It was in the fact that, for a few dollars, you could create unforgettable memories. Now? You’re lucky if your wallet survives the day.

Check out the video below: