Food, fun and Fletcher’s – it must be time for the fair

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Photo courtesy of Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas

Ah, fall. That wonderful time of year when the temperatures cool, days start to get shorter and Fletcher’s Corny Dogs make their annual appearance at the State Fair of Texas.

If you’ve never been to the State Fair of Texas, I urge you to, at some point in your life, make the effort to visit at least once. Where else can you take a selfie with a 55-foot cowboy, taste-test foods that “normal” people would never dream of deep frying and view an entire, life-sized display carved out of butter all in the same venue?

Photo courtesy Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas
Photo courtesy Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas

And then there’s the auto show.

The largest auto show in the Southwest, the State Fair of Texas Auto Show boasts displays from almost every major manufacturer. There is also the Classic Corral for everyone who appreciates a blast from the past.

093016-cc-food-fun-and-fletchers-it-must-be-time-for-the-fair-5This year’s featured vehicles include the newly-crowned Texas Auto Writers Media Association (TAWA) “Family Car of Texas,” the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. If you’re in the market for a new family vehicle, stopping to take a look at the all-new Chrysler Pacifica won’t be a waste of time. Over 100 safety and security features combined with easy-to-operate technology makes the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica the one to see.

093016-cc-food-fun-and-fletchers-it-must-be-time-for-the-fair-6Also making its appearance at the show will be the all-new 2017 FIAT® 124 Spider. The warm fall temperatures in Texas make this the perfect sporty little car to get out and enjoy the sunshine.

Powering its way to the State Fair of Texas is also the Ram Truck lineup, including the 2017 Ram 1500 Night package and the ever-popular 2017 Ram Power Wagon. Plus two new Ram trucks unveiled just yesterday.

The Lone Star Silver Edition is “bred to work hard and look good doing it,” says Jim Morrison, head of Ram Brand – FCA US LLC. It features three engine choices, six- or seven-passenger seating, full-length, wheel-to-wheel side steps and so much more.

093016-cc-food-fun-and-fletchers-it-must-be-time-for-the-fair-7The Ram Rebel TRX concept truck is the ultimate off-road truck. A 6.2L supercharged HEMI® V8 provides 575 horsepower. It has a steel bumper and skid plates, and tow hooks so you can get friends who think they can follow you out of a jam.

In addition to some of the latest cars, trucks and SUVs available on the market today, the State Fair of Texas has plenty of interactive fun for all ages. Experience a 360-degree virtual reality “test drive” at the indoor Ram Truck Zone. Transport to a Texas horse ranch, Texas hill country and the Austin city streets for the ultimate virtual driving experience.

Big Red, the mechanical ram, is once again making his appearance in the outdoor Ram Truck Zone, for wanna-be rodeo enthusiasts who dare to take a ride. You can also conquer a 26-foot high rock wall or test your strength when you try to ring the bell on the Ram High Striker.

Have you ever wanted to drive a Viper? Now is your chance. Slip inside an actual Viper and take a spin on the virtual track on the panoramic screens in front of you.

Finally, record your State Fair of Texas memories when you stop by the FCA US displays and create a family decal or pause for a photo op with the background scene and props of your choice.

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Photo courtesy Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas

The fair’s opening day is today and the streets of downtown Dallas are prepped and ready for the parade. Big Tex is ready to greet visitors and pose for pictures. The stages are set to host 75 concerts over the 24-day event. And the auto show is gassed up and ready to surprise and delight.

So, stop by. Enjoy some fried Jell-O® or cookie fries and buckle up for some state fair fun!