What Did Big Tex Do Before He Became Big Tex? 🤠

Every fall, we all know it’s officially fair season in Texas when that big ol’ cowboy tips his hat and booms, “Howdy, folks!” But have you ever wondered who Big Tex was before he became the friendly face of the State Fair of Texas? Spoiler alert: he didn’t start out as a cowboy at all.

Before becoming the 55-foot-tall legend we know today, Big Tex actually began his life as... a Christmas decoration! Yep—back in 1949, he stood tall in downtown Kerens, Texas, as the world’s largest Santa Claus. A few years later, in 1952, he got a major makeover—traded in the red suit for jeans, boots, and a cowboy hat—and the rest is Lone Star history.

Today, Big Tex greets millions of fairgoers every year at Fair Park in Dallas. If you’re planning to visit the State Fair of Texas, here’s a pro tip: come hungry. You’ll find everything from deep-fried Oreos and corn dogs to this year’s wild creations like deep-fried pho and pickle pizza. (Fair food rule: the crazier it sounds, the better it tastes.)

The fair runs from late September through mid-October, so there’s still time to grab your tickets, snap a selfie with Big Tex, and experience a little slice of Texas tradition. Whether you go for the rides, the food, or just to say “Howdy” to our big man in boots, it’s a tradition worth keeping.

Have fun, stay cool, and maybe bring some stretchy pants. You’ll thank us later. 😉

The original Big Tex as Santa Clause prior to 1951.