Car lovers across the country have a reason to mark their calendars. The Texas Auto Show returns to Dallas from September 25 to October 18, 2026. Held inside historic Fair Park as part of the State Fair of Texas, this event blends new vehicle reveals with classic fair fun. Visitors can walk through shiny showrooms, then grab a corny dog minutes later. Few shows offer that kind of mix.
This guide covers what to expect, which brands will appear, and how to plan a smooth visit. Whether you are a lifelong gearhead or simply curious about new models, there is something here for you.
What Makes This Event Special
Most car shows stand alone. This one does not. It runs inside the largest state fair in the country, so guests get two experiences in one ticket. Additionally, the show spans roughly 297,000 square feet across three indoor and outdoor areas. That is a huge amount of space to explore new trucks, sedans, SUVs, and concept vehicles.
Because the fair draws over two million guests each year, exhibitors reach a wide and varied audience. Families, students, retirees, and professionals all walk through the same halls. Therefore, the show feels less like an industry trade event and more like a community gathering.
Dates and Hours at a Glance
Planning ahead makes the visit easier. The table below lists the general schedule for the 2026 run.
| Detail | Information |
| Event dates | September 25 to October 18, 2026 |
| Location | Fair Park, 1300 Robert B. Cullum Boulevard, Dallas, Texas |
| Monday to Thursday hours | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| Friday and Saturday hours | 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
| Sunday hours | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| Total run length | 24 days |
Hours can shift slightly on special event days, so it helps to check the official schedule before arriving.
Featured Vehicles and Brands
Guests can expect a broad lineup of manufacturers on the floor. Toyota typically sets up in the Truck Zone and the Automobile Building, showing everything from compact cars to full-size trucks. Acura usually brings its full range as well, including the TLX sedan, the RDX and MDX SUVs, and the NSX supercar for those who want a taste of performance engineering.
Beyond these two brands, organizers usually welcome a wide mix of domestic and international automakers. New model years, refreshed trims, and a handful of concept cars tend to appear throughout the run. Because lineups are finalized closer to the event, it is smart to check the show’s official vehicle list in late summer for the most current roster.
Here is a quick look at the kinds of vehicles guests typically encounter:
- Full-size and midsize pickup trucks
- Family sedans and hatchbacks
- Compact and three-row SUVs
- Electric and hybrid models
- Off-road and adventure-ready trims
- Occasional concept or show-only vehicles
The Truck of Texas Award
One tradition draws steady attention from truck fans. Each year, the show hands out the Truck of Texas award. Industry voters and attendees weigh in, and the winning truck earns bragging rights across the state. This award has become something fans look forward to, much like an awards season for the auto world. If trucks are your focus, plan to check the announcement schedule so you do not miss it.
Beyond the Cars: Big Attractions
The Texas Auto Show sits inside a much larger celebration. Big Tex, the fair’s towering 55-foot cowboy figure, watches over the grounds and remains one of the most photographed spots at the event. Visitors can also catch the nightly Starlight Parade and the Illumination Sensation light show along the park’s esplanade.
Food is another major draw. Fairgoers can sample fried classics alongside more inventive dishes, including items like fried lobster tail. However, the variety goes far beyond fried food; there are barbecue stands, sweet treats, and regional specialties scattered throughout the grounds. Rides, live music, livestock exhibits, and shopping pavilions round out the experience, so guests rarely run out of things to do between vehicle displays.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
A little preparation goes a long way at an event this large. Consider these tips before heading to Fair Park.
- Arrive early on weekdays to avoid heavier weekend crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, since the grounds cover a large area.
- Check parking options in advance, as lots fill quickly on busy days.
- Bring a portable charger, since photos and maps drain phone batteries fast.
- Review the daily schedule online so you do not miss parades or award announcements.
- Pace yourself between the car exhibits and the wider fair attractions.
Families with young children should also look into stroller-friendly routes, since some pathways get crowded during peak hours. Meanwhile, visitors focused purely on vehicles may want to start in the Automobile Building before the halls fill up.
Getting There and Parking
Fair Park sits close to downtown Dallas, and several transit options connect directly to the grounds. Public rail service stops near the entrance, which can save time compared to driving. For those who prefer to drive, on-site and nearby lots are available, though prices and availability vary by day. Booking parking ahead of time, when possible, tends to reduce stress on busy weekends.
Ticket Considerations
Tickets typically function as general fair admission, which also grants access to the auto show floor. Discounted days, such as early entry or specific weekday promotions, often appear on the calendar. Because pricing and promotions can change year to year, it is best to confirm current rates through the official State Fair of Texas channels closer to the event date.
Why Attendees Keep Coming Back
Few events combine automotive innovation with old-fashioned fair charm. Guests get to sit inside a brand-new truck, then walk a few steps to ride a Ferris wheel. That contrast is part of the appeal. Additionally, the show gives everyday shoppers a chance to compare vehicles side by side without visiting multiple dealerships. For many Texans, the show has become an annual tradition rather than a one-time outing.
Conclusion
The Texas Auto Show 2026 offers a rare combination of new vehicle reveals, hometown fair culture, and family-friendly entertainment. Running from September 25 through October 18 at Fair Park in Dallas, the event gives visitors a chance to explore trucks, sedans, and SUVs from major brands while also enjoying the wider State Fair of Texas experience. Between the Truck of Texas award, the towering presence of Big Tex, and a wide range of food and entertainment, there is plenty to fill a full day. With a bit of planning around hours, parking, and tickets, guests can make the most of this 24-day celebration of cars and community.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Texas Auto Show 2026 take place?
The show runs from September 25 to October 18, 2026, at Fair Park in Dallas, Texas.
Is the auto show included with State Fair of Texas admission?
Yes. General fair admission typically grants access to the auto show floor along with the rest of the fairgrounds.
Which brands usually appear at the show?
Past lineups have included Toyota, Acura, and a wide range of domestic and international automakers, with new model years and occasional concept vehicles.
What is the Truck of Texas award?
It is an annual honor given to a standout truck, voted on by industry judges and fair attendees each year.
What are the best times to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings tend to be quieter than weekend afternoons and evenings, especially during the first hour after opening.
