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Texas Star
Texas Star Ferris wheel
Height 216 feet (65.8 m)[1][2]
Weight 678,554 lb (307,787 kg)[citation needed]
Cost $2.2 million[3]

Texas Star is a Ferris wheel at Fair Park in Dallas, Texas, where it operates during the annual State Fair of Texas[2] as its most popular ride.[4]

With an overall height of 216 feet (65.8 m), it was the tallest Ferris wheel in North America[1][4] from 1985 until the opening of the 250-foot (76 m) Star of Puebla in Mexico, on 22 July 2013.[5]

It can carry up to 264 passengers in its 44 gondolas.[6]

Texas Star illuminated at night

Built by SDC Corp. in Reggio Emilia, Italy, at a cost of $2.2 million,[3] it was shipped to Dallas for its debut at the 1985 State Fair of Texas.[7] The Texas Star was owned by Buster Brown and his wife, Barbara. After Buster died in an automobile accident in 1990, Barbara’s brother, Mike Sandefur, bought a 50% stake in the Ferris wheel. Mike died in March of 2018, followed by Barbara who died shortly after Easter Sunday in 2025.[8][9] As of 2024, The Texas Star has been owned and operated by Talley Amusements, a company started by Barbara’s eldest daughter Mary and her husband.

From 1985 to 2007 it was illuminated at night by 16,000 incandescent red, white, and blue turbolites.[10] In 2008, this system was replaced with a longer-lasting, more energy-efficient LED system.[11]

References

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Texas Star

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The Texas Star is a 212-foot-tall located at in , , and recognized as the tallest in the state. It primarily operates during the annual and for select private events, serving as the event's most iconic and popular ride, where it provides riders with panoramic views of the fairgrounds, , and the surrounding skyline. Introduced in 1985, the Texas Star was built by SDC Corp. in , , and has been owned and operated by Talley Amusements, a family-owned company, ever since. The wheel features 44 enclosed gondolas, each seating up to six passengers for a total capacity of 264 riders per rotation, with a minimum height requirement of 36 inches and a policy against single riders. Access to the ride requires State Fair Food & Midway Coupons, and it forms a key part of the fair's expansive Midway, which includes over 70 attractions. Over the decades, the Texas Star has become a symbol of the , drawing millions of visitors annually and occasionally hosting special events such as celebrity rides and weddings.

History

Origins and Construction

The Texas Star Ferris wheel was conceived in the early 1980s as a permanent landmark attraction for the , aimed at enhancing visitor attendance and serving as an iconic symbol of pride during the state's Sesquicentennial celebrations in 1986. Planning began amid efforts to modernize in , with the ride designed to become a cornerstone of the fair's midway and operate annually during the event's 24-day run. Manufactured by SDC Corp. in , , the Ferris wheel's components were shipped across the Atlantic and transported inland via twenty 40-foot trucks from the to the site, presenting logistical challenges due to the ride's massive scale and the need for precise coordination. The importation process required careful handling of the 35 tons of reinforced and other materials to ensure structural integrity upon arrival. Construction commenced shortly after the components arrived, supported by over 600 yards of concrete poured for the foundation, and was completed in a tight timeline to align with the fair's opening. The project, funded by the State Fair of Texas through showman Buster Brown, cost $2.2 million in 1985 dollars and debuted in October 1985 at Fair Park in Dallas. It has been owned by the Brown and Talley families since its opening and operated by Talley Amusements since 2013.

Ownership and Operations

The Texas Star was originally purchased and operated by Buster L. Brown and his wife Barbara Brown, who invested $2.2 million to install the at in 1985 as a centerpiece for the . Following Buster Brown's death in a car accident in 1990, ownership transferred to Barbara Brown and her brother Mike Sandefur, who managed the ride's operations and maintenance for over two decades. In 2013, a significant ownership dispute arose when Barbara Brown and Mike Sandefur, then in their late 60s and 70s, considered selling the aging attraction due to fatigue and explored relocating it from after an external buyer expressed interest. This controversy nearly resulted in the loss of the iconic wheel from the , prompting negotiations that were resolved when Barbara's eldest daughter, Mary Talley, and her husband Tom Talley acquired the ride with financial backing, ensuring its permanence through a new long-term lease agreement with fair organizers. The transition preserved the family legacy in the amusement industry, with Mary drawing from her fourth-generation roots in carnival operations. As of 2025, the is owned and operated by Talley Amusements, the company founded by Mary and Tom Talley, which continues to uphold the Brown family's stewardship of the attraction. The ride operates solely during the State Fair of Texas, an annual event spanning late September to mid-October and lasting about 24 days, during which it serves as the fair's most popular midway feature. Installed permanently at since 1985, the Texas Star remains stationed year-round in winter storage on-site, avoiding full disassembly but requiring seasonal activation and staffing logistics, including up to 18 employees for daily runs. Operational maintenance emphasizes safety, with several-hour-long inspections conducted each day of the fair to check mechanical components and ensure rider security. Complementing this, Texas mandates an annual by an insurer's authorized representative for all amusement rides, with the resulting certificate—detailing the ride's , manufacturer, and compliance—filed with the Texas Department of Insurance by July 1 each year to obtain a required operating sticker.

Milestones and Upgrades

Upon its debut in 1985 during Texas's Sesquicentennial celebration, the Texas Star stood as the tallest Ferris wheel in the Western Hemisphere at 212 feet, a record it held as the tallest in North America until July 2013, when larger wheels like the 250-foot Star of Puebla in Mexico surpassed it. This height milestone underscored its status as a landmark attraction at Fair Park, drawing riders for panoramic views of Dallas and contributing to the State Fair of Texas's reputation as a premier event. The wheel's enduring presence was further secured in 2013 when Mary Talley and her husband purchased it from the estate of original owner Buster Brown, preventing its potential relocation and ensuring a long-term contract with the fair organizers. A significant technological upgrade occurred in 2012 with the replacement of the original 16,000 incandescent bulbs—used since 1985 for red, white, and blue nighttime illumination—with energy-efficient LED lights, enhancing visibility and reducing operational costs while maintaining the ride's iconic glow. This improvement aligned with broader modernization efforts and has supported special lighting displays during promotional events, such as the wheel's 30th anniversary in 2015, which featured enhanced illuminations tied to celebrations. Attendance has varied, with 154,000 riders in 2023 and more than 100,000 in 2024, reflecting changes in overall attendance. As of 2025, the Texas Star remains under the ownership and operation of Talley Amusements, the family-run company that acquired it in 2013, ensuring its continued role amid ongoing renovations and the fair's adaptation to modern visitor experiences.

Design and Specifications

Physical Dimensions

The Texas Star measures 212 feet 6 inches (64.8 meters) in height for the wheel itself, with an overall structure reaching 216 feet (65.8 meters) including supports. Its diameter spans 200 feet (61 meters), making it a dominant feature in the skyline. These dimensions positioned it as the tallest in upon its 1985 debut, surpassing prior U.S. examples and establishing it as the largest in the at the time. The complete assembly weighs 678,554 pounds (307,787 kilograms), encompassing , mechanical components, and the wheel's framework. This substantial mass contributes to its stability, anchored firmly to a custom foundation at . The base incorporates nearly 600 cubic yards of reinforced by 35 tons of steel, engineered to secure the ride against environmental stresses in the area. These physical specifications reflect the wheel's design by manufacturer SDC Corp., prioritizing scale and durability for long-term operation at the .

Gondolas and Capacity

The Texas Star Ferris wheel is equipped with 44 enclosed gondolas, each capable of seating up to 6 passengers for a total capacity of 264 riders. These gondolas feature tubing enclosures designed for passenger safety and comfort, including bench seating and safety restraint bars. At full operation, the wheel achieves a throughput of approximately 1,320 passengers per hour, enabling efficient handling of crowds during the . Riding restrictions include a minimum height requirement of 36 inches, and no single riders are permitted; passengers must share a or fill it completely.

Lighting and Aesthetics

The Texas Star was originally illuminated by 16,000 incandescent turbolites in red, white, and blue, producing a patriotic glow that highlighted its presence as a symbol of American festivity during evening operations at the . This lighting scheme emphasized the wheel's role in creating a vibrant, star-like against the , integrating seamlessly with the fairground's overall aesthetic through its bold, thematic color palette inspired by the U.S. and Texas flags. In 2008, the lighting system underwent a complete upgrade to a modern LED array, replacing the original incandescent bulbs and enabling more dynamic visual effects. This conversion reduced energy consumption by over 90%, drawing less than a tenth of the previous power while allowing for programmable patterns that add variety to the nightly displays, such as synchronized color shifts and animations. The longer lifespan of the LEDs—up to 50,000 hours for white lights and even more for colored ones—compared to the original bulbs' 2,500 to 5,000 hours, minimizes maintenance needs and ensures reliable illumination throughout the fair season. These aesthetic enhancements make the Texas Star a prominent nighttime , visible from miles away and contributing to Fair Park's enchanting skyline ambiance during the annual event. The LED system's flexibility supports Texas-themed visuals, reinforcing the wheel's cultural identity without compromising efficiency.

Operation and Visitor Experience

Ride Mechanics

The Texas Star completes a full ride cycle in approximately 12 minutes, encompassing loading, unloading, and the passenger journey through multiple revolutions. This duration allows for an efficient throughput, accommodating up to 1,320 passengers per hour across its 44 gondolas, each holding six people. Powered by electric motors, the ride employs a variable-speed drive system that ensures smooth operation. This controlled motion minimizes discomfort for riders while enabling the wheel to perform approximately three full rotations within the cycle time. The loading process involves pausing the gondolas at a ground-level platform, where passengers board efficiently, often in pairs of opposite gondolas to maintain balance. From elevations exceeding 200 feet, riders experience panoramic views encompassing the Dallas skyline, Fair Park grounds, and broader surrounding landscapes, enhancing the observational aspect of the ride. Operations cease in adverse weather conditions, including sustained winds over 30 mph or when lightning is detected within approximately 20 miles, prioritizing passenger safety.

Safety and Accessibility

The Texas Star Ferris wheel adheres to stringent safety standards mandated by the Texas Amusement Ride Safety Inspection and Insurance Act, administered by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). This includes annual inspections by TDI-approved third-party engineers to verify structural integrity, mechanical systems, and compliance with ASTM F1159, the standard practice for the design of amusement rides and devices. Additionally, certified technicians conduct daily pre-operational inspections, checking critical components such as safety restraints, brakes, electrical systems, and signal devices to ensure operational safety before riders board. The supplements these with independent inspections of all midway rides, including the Texas Star, prior to opening and throughout the event by contracted specialists. The ride maintains an exemplary safety record, with no major accidents or fatalities reported since its installation in ; operational disruptions have been limited to minor unscheduled stops for routine , as documented in TDI's public injury reports. Rider eligibility is governed by posted guidelines to promote : a minimum height of 36 inches is required, with children under 48 inches needing supervision by a responsible adult, and no single riders permitted to ensure balanced loading. Each accommodates up to 6 passengers. Accessibility features align with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), allowing registered service animals that meet federal guidelines, though they are prohibited in certain fair areas like livestock exhibits for health reasons. The State Fair provides priority access for guests with disabilities, including transfer assistance onto gondolas and rental options for wheelchairs or mobility scooters to facilitate approach to the ride platform. In emergencies, evacuation procedures follow ASTM and TDI protocols, utilizing rescue harnesses and trained staff to safely lower riders from elevated positions if the wheel stops unexpectedly. On-site medical support, including stations staffed by certified personnel, is available throughout fair operations to address any health concerns promptly.

Cultural Significance

The Texas Star serves as an enduring symbol of the , embodying the event's spirit of grandeur and embodying "Texas-sized" attractions that capture local lore and pride. Recognized as the tallest in at 212 feet, it stands as a of Texas hospitality and innovation, often highlighted in fair promotions for its illuminated silhouette against the skyline. Its massive scale and vibrant lighting have made it a staple in advertisements and community storytelling, reinforcing its role as a cultural landmark tied to the state's fairgoing traditions. The wheel significantly boosts and underscores Dallas's heritage, drawing millions to the annual and contributing to the region's economic vitality. The 2025 fair attracted 2,020,064 visitors, a decline from over 2.3 million in 2023 and 2024 attributed to economic factors. This attendance supports broader community impacts, including job creation and local business growth, while fostering a sense of shared identity rooted in Texas's agricultural and cultural legacy. The fair generates up to $680 million in economic impact for as of 2025. In media, the Texas Star has appeared in documentaries exploring the fair's history, such as "A Fair to Remember," which showcases it alongside other iconic elements of the event. Popular YouTube videos capture night rides and its operational allure, amassing views that highlight its appeal to global audiences, while travel guides frequently feature it as a must-see attraction for visitors seeking authentic Texas experiences. These portrayals emphasize its role in promoting the fair's vibrant atmosphere beyond mere amusement. Looking ahead, the Texas Star is poised for integration into 's revitalization efforts, including the "5 Pillars for Fair Park" plan aimed at year-round and . Master planning documents envision preserving permanent rides like the wheel within enhanced infrastructure, such as new spaces and trails, to sustain its cultural prominence amid projects funded by state grants exceeding $3 million.

References

  1. https://bigtex.com/plan-your-visit/attractions-events/midway/
  2. https://talleyamusements.com/attraction/texas-star/
  3. https://bigtex.com/texas-star-lights-up-the-skies-around-fair-park/
  4. https://www.centraltrack.com/wheeling-dealing/
  5. https://www.dmagazine.com/frontburner/2019/09/the-long-troubled-and-often-bizarre-history-of-the-state-fair-of-texas/
  6. https://coasterpedia.net/wiki/Texas_Star
  7. https://www.theshorthorn.com/news/the-birth-of-texas-star-10-facts-about-ferris-wheel/article_57361d9a-433d-11ed-a141-07b20eee86d0.html
  8. https://www.buckscards.com/store5/dallas-texas-star-ferris-wheel.html
  9. https://www.dallasnews.com/photos/2013/09/04/today-in-dallas-photo-history-1985-texas-star-almost-finished-symphony-center-just-beginning/
  10. https://www.dallasnews.com/arts-entertainment/things-to-do/2021/09/30/wheel-truth-how-the-colonys-new-ferris-wheel-compares-to-the-state-fairs-texas-star/
  11. https://texasescapes.com/DallasTexas/Dallas-Texas-Fair-Park-28-Texas-Star.htm
  12. https://carnivalwarehouse.com/newsserver/guest-editorial-we-must-save-our-outdoor-entertainment-industry-before-it-is-too-late--1591315200
  13. https://bigtex.com/
  14. https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/OC/htm/OC.2151.htm
  15. https://www.tdi.texas.gov/commercial/indexamusement.html
  16. https://bigtex.com/the-2023-state-fair-of-texas-by-the-numbers/
  17. https://bigtex.com/the-2024-state-fair-of-texas-welcomes-nearly-2-4-million-fairgoers/
  18. https://www.dallasnews.com/news/2011/10/15/state-fair-flashback-212-foot-texas-star-ferris-wheel-took-its-first-spin-in-1985/
  19. http://watermelon-kid.com/places/FairPark/aa-tour/aa-texas-star.htm
  20. https://www.observationwheeldirectory.com/wheels/texas-star/
  21. https://foresyteapp.com/texas-star-ferris-wheel-dal/
  22. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/galleries/The-worlds-best-Ferris-wheels/
  23. https://www.gauthmath.com/solution/1762385066211334/The-Texas-Star-is-a-Ferris-wheel-at-the-state-fair-in-Dallas-The-Ferris-wheel-ha
  24. https://www.dallasnews.com/news/weather/2025/09/25/when-ominous-storm-clouds-hang-over-the-state-fair-of-texas-heres-how-they-handle-it/
  25. https://ridesdatabase.org/accident_reports/CPSC-PA-2013-09-01.pdf
  26. https://www.tdi.texas.gov/forms/pcinspections/pc322amusdly.pdf
  27. https://bigtex.com/state-fair-of-texas-announces-safety-security-measures-for-2025-event/
  28. https://www.tdi.texas.gov/commercial/lcamqtrinjury.html
  29. https://bigtex.com/about-us/faq/
  30. https://www.frankiearthur.com/blog/the-state-fair-of-texas-where-tradition-fun-and-texas-spirit-unite.html
  31. https://www.worldsprings.com/blog/Texas-State-Fair-Recovery
  32. https://bigtex.com/about-us/daily-attendance/
  33. https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/state-fair/state-fair-of-texas-attendance-drop-2025-local-expert-blames-economy/287-3cab5175-a723-40db-b6db-e5414f5a25f9
  34. https://bigtex.com/state-fair-of-texas-generates-up-to-680-million-economic-impact-for-north-texas/
  35. https://mediaprojects.org/films/american-history/a-fair-to-remember/film/
  36. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuG52qaJGns
  37. https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/community/dallas-residents-hope-for-fair-park-revival-through-5-pillars-plan-following-citys-takeover/287-e527b7a4-0fa3-4ed4-9b33-2b3e64c67694
  38. https://www.fairparkdallas.com/assets/doc/2020_2_23_Fair-Park-MP-Update-reduced-70423509de.pdf
  39. https://dallasexaminer.com/fair-park-community-park-funding/
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