Senator hopeful James Talarico gives a crash course on tariffs at the Texas State Fair: “The Big Tex turkey leg is $25”
High tariffs imposed on foreign imports have impacted the cost of household basics and food - as prices at this year’s Texas State Fair show.
What used to be a fun family day out for most US households is fast becoming a luxury which many can no longer afford. The State Fair of Texas is steeped in tradition, having been held annually since 1886. Around 2 million visitors descend on Dallas during the 24 days between late September/mid-October to enjoy fairground rides, exhibition events, shows for kids and food.
But like everything else in life these days, attending the Texas State Fair is now more expensive than ever.
Admission price to the Texas State Fair has remained stable
The cost of getting into Fair Park hasn’t changed that much in 10 years. This year, a one-day FLEX tickets costs $29 while general admission ranges from $19-$29 for adults and $14-$24 for children, seniors, the military and responders. Compare that to a decade ago when general admission was $18 for adults and $14 for children and seniors.
Getting something to eat however is now a lot more expensive.
James Talarico, who is running for the Senator’s seat in Texas, took to social media to show how food inflation is impacting the State Fair and the millions of visitors who attend. And he blames the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on foreign imports for the increases.
Tariffs to blame for food hikes, says Senator candidate
“Tariffs are ruining everything - including one of the best things in Texas,” says Talarico. “I’m here at the Texas State Fair. Thousands of families come here every year for the food, the rides, the livestock show and of course, Big Tex.
“Life shouldn’t just be about scraping by with bills and groceries. The State Fair is one of those things that makes life worth living. But this year feels different. Thanks to tariffs, everything costs more - a lot more,” he continued, before giving some examples. “These deep-fried Oreos cost $14 - they used to cost $6; this funnel cake chicken sandwich used to be $9, now it’s $15; these fried alligator bites are $23. The big Tex turkey leg is $25...
“Tariffs drive up the price of ingredients so small businesses like these vendors, want to stay in business, they have to pass that cost along to us. I don’t blame the State Fair. I blame the DC politicians, who are pushing tariffs and raising the cost of everything,” Talarico concludes.
Inflation data
The annual US inflation rate hit 2.9% in August 2025, up from 2.7% in June. According to an S&P Global study, US companies now have to fork out and extra $1.2 trillion in expenses because of the inflationary pressure, which has partly been caused by high import tariffs.
It paints a complex economic situation in which energy costs are fluctuating, the housing market remains heated and food prices continue to rise above historical norms.
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