The State Fair of Texas is once again set to tantalize taste buds with its 2025 edition, announcing the highly anticipated finalists for the prestigious Big Tex Choice Awards. This year’s competition saw a record-breaking 76 entries, showcasing the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of fair food in Texas. Fairgoers can anticipate an unforgettable culinary journey, featuring innovative creations, beloved classics, and a brand-new beverage category designed to quench the thirst for new tastes.
A Record-Breaking Culinary Competition
The 21st Annual Big Tex Choice Awards has expanded its horizons by introducing the “Best Taste – Sipper” category, celebrating the most refreshing and unique drinks on offer. Alongside this new addition, traditional honors for “Best Taste – Savory,” “Best Taste – Sweet,” and “Most Creative” remain, drawing fierce competition from dedicated concessionaires.
From an initial pool of 76 entries, the field was narrowed down to 30 semi-finalists, and ultimately, 15 finalists who vied for the coveted titles. The rigorous judging process, which evaluated entries on uniqueness, creativity, presentation, and taste, has once again cemented the State Fair of Texas as a premier destination for groundbreaking food news.
The 2025 Big Tex Choice Awards Winners
After much deliberation, the judges have crowned the champions of the 2025 Big Tex Choice Awards. Taking home the “Best Taste – Savory” award was the Crab & Mozzarella Arancini, handcrafted rice balls filled with premium Maryland Blue Crab meat, mozzarella, and herbs, deep-fried to a golden crisp and served with marinara sauce.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Chill & Thrill Delight was crowned “Best Taste – Sweet.” This vibrant, refreshing treat is a Colombian-inspired fruit cup brimming with diced mango, pineapple, watermelon, grapes, and cantaloupe, all bathed in fresh watermelon juice and topped with a handcrafted shaved mango sorbet that slowly melts into the mix.
The newly introduced “Best Taste – Sipper” award went to the Cookie Chaos Milkshake. This indulgent concoction is a rich, creamy cookie butter milkshake loaded with various cookie chunks, crowned with whipped cream, edible cookie dough, and a Biscoff cookie, offering an explosion of cookie flavors in every sip.
Claiming the “Most Creative” title were the Wagyu Bacon Cheeseburger Deviled Egg Sliders. This inventive dish features a Cajun-seasoned Wagyu patty with aged cheddar and crispy applewood bacon, cleverly sandwiched between two deep-fried, panko-crusted deviled egg halves, offering a unique fusion of familiar flavors with an unexpected twist.
Beyond these winners, a host of other creative finalists, including Fried Pickle Bombs, Pop-Elotes, and Churro Cheesecake Jalapeño Poppers, were available for fairgoers to sample.
A Feast of New Flavors and Experiences
Beyond the competition, the State Fair of Texas is enhancing the attendee experience with a significant expansion of its culinary offerings. This year, four brand-new food vendors, three new food stands, and three new seating areas have been introduced to accommodate the growing crowds and diverse palates. Attendees can explore unique additions like Aguasol Tequila® Corazon Verde, Baja Fish Tacos, Birria Ramen Bowl, and Lobster Three Ways.
Marking a significant milestone, the fair welcomes its first-ever fully vegan food vendor, Vegan Vibrationz, promising plant-based creations that deliver bold flavors. The fair also introduces new concepts such as Rousso’s Fat Bacon and the Lobster Lounge, further diversifying the food landscape.
A Tradition of Culinary Excellence in Texas
The Big Tex Choice Awards, a tradition since 2005, has consistently driven innovation in fair food, turning the State Fair of Texas into a national trendsetter for culinary creativity. This commitment to showcasing unique and delicious food experiences draws millions of visitors each year, making it a cornerstone event in the Lone Star State. The fair, held from September 26 to October 19, 2025, continues to be a celebration of all things Texas, from its iconic mascot to its world-renowned food competitions.
While the State Fair of Texas remains a beloved tradition, recent news indicates a dip in attendance for the 2025 season, with factors such as affordability and pricing being cited by fairgoers and experts alike as potential influences. Despite these challenges, the fair’s dedication to providing an unparalleled food and entertainment experience continues to be its main draw, promising a memorable visit for all who attend.
