Garland, TX – Since its inception, the State Fair of Texas has issued free tickets to teachers and students to allow them to gain entrance to the annual event free of charge. This year, that practice is coming to an end for high school students. Citing an uptick in violence, the rising cost of printing the tickets and providing police protection, as well as the relatively low percentage of tickets that actually get used, the Fair will only send out free tickets to lower grades.
Security seems to be one of the driving concerns behind this change, and the State Fair of Texas is not the only entertainment venue combating this issue. Six Flags Over Texas, for example, initiated rigorous changes to the rules around when and under what circumstances high school students can enter the parks. A stronger security presence and a strict chaperone policy were put in place over the last two years after a number of fights, some involving weapons, took place late at night in the parking lot outside the park. The State Fair, likewise, has introduced a chaperone policy for high school students attending after 5 p.m., hoping it will ease the financial stress of the $8 million they will pay this year for Dallas Police protection. The State Fair is also joining most other large entertainment venues in the area by instituting a clear bag policy for attendees in an effort to make the Fair a safe, family-friendly experience.
Another reason the State Fair decided to make this change is based on the actual attendance numbers. They say that only about 10% of the two million tickets they print and distribute each year actually get used, and with districts like Garland ISD dropping Fair Day from their academic calendars, that number is likely to drop even further.
Students in Pre-K through 8th grade will continue to receive free tickets, while high school students can purchase discounted tickets for $12 through the Fair’s official website. Like the free tickets, discounted tickets are not available for weekend dates.
How much will this impact high school students and their ability to enjoy The State Fair of Texas? The free ticket was always something of a drop in the bucket, considering how expensive everything is once you walk through those entrance gates. It will be interesting to see how this policy change impacts overall State Fair attendance and economics.
Thoughts on this change? Drop them in the Comments section below!
