The YMBL South Texas State Fair & Rodeo is held annually at the Ford Park Entertainment Complex and brings thousands of visitors to Beaumont each spring with food, entertainment, and, of course, carnival rides. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) showcases the country's top cowboys and cowgirls at the YMBL Championship Rodeo while locals present their masterpieces at the School Art, Quilt and Photo Show. There's a Livestock & Poultry Show as well as a Youth Animal Auction, Kids Fun Zone and a whole lot more. Explore all activities, schedules, and prices. 

South Texas State Fair Food

OPENING NIGHT - Thursday, March 23

FREE admission to everyone attending Opening Ceremonies at the Archway Entrance Gate of Ford Park starting at 6:00 p.m. Following the Opening Ceremonies, all admission tickets will be sold at regular prices. For Opening Night, The Carnival Americana Midway offers a special unlimited ride wristband for just $35 (none will be sold after 9 p.m.)

RODEO NIGHT - Friday, March 24

Entry purchase ticket to the fair grants general admission to the YMBL Rodeo. The events start at 7 p.m.

HEB FAIR SHARE FOR HUNGER SUNDAY - Sunday, March 26

Fairgoers are admitted FREE when they bring six (6) non-perishable HEB product can foods. The Fair will donate those canned foods to the Southeast Texas Food Bank. Fair visitors without canned foods pay regular entry prices. The Carnival Americana Midway offers a special unlimited ride wristband for just $35 (none will be sold after 9 p.m.). Without the wristband, regular ride prices apply.

Ferris wheels and carnival rides at the South Texas State Fair$2 RIDE NIGHT - Wednesday, March 29

Fairgoers can ride each ride on the Carnival Americana Midway for $2 each all evening.

MILITARY/FIRST RESPONDER NIGHT - Thursday, March 30

This promotion allows FREE admission for active, retired, reserve military, National Guard, and disabled veterans along with active first responders and their dependents. A valid military I.D., badge, or valid first responder I.D. must be shown at the Fair Admission gate.

FUN FRIDAY- Friday, March 31

The fair opens at 5 p.m. and the Carnival Americana Midway offers a special unlimited ride wristband for just $35 (none will be sold after 9 p.m.). 

KID’S DAY - Last Blast Saturday, April 1

The Fair admits Kids 17 and under free of charge from 12:00 noon - 3 p.m. Regular ride prices apply.

COCA-COLA/DR. PEPPER CANTASTIC SUNDAY - Sunday, April 2

Fairgoers are admitted FREE all day long when they bring an empty or full "six‑pack" of Coca-Cola or Dr. Pepper product cans. The Fair will donate the cans to a local charity. Patrons with these product cans are eligible to purchase a wristband for $20 (Patrons without the cans may purchase carnival wristbands for $35 and none will be sold after 9 p.m.). This wristband permits the holders to ride the carnival rides on an unlimited basis. Fair visitors without cans pay regular entry prices and regular wristband or individual ride prices.