State Fair of Texas Announces Dating App, Fairmates, Plays with Our Hearts

Dream of serving corn dogs and funnel cake at your wedding? We got news ... but check the date.

April 1, 2025

Image: two people eating at the state fair.

The State Fair PR's team woke up and decided to play with our hearts today. Kathy Tran

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Well, we were had early on this first day of April. The folks at the State Fair of Texas must have had this idea ready to go for months and were just waiting for the right day to send out a press release:

Corny or Cute? You decide on the new State Fair of Texas ‘Fairmates’ Dating App

DALLAS – April 1, 2025 – Finding love at the State Fair of Texas just got easier because deep-fried romance is always in season! The State Fair is thrilled to announce the launch of Fairmates, the first-ever dating app powered by corn dogs, carnival rides, and a mutual love for Big Tex.

Just as I was about to forward it to our dating expert and columnist, I sadly remembered the date.

The press release, which is real, however, goes on to explain how fairgoers could find love based on their favorite fried food, preferred Midway rides and a slight tingle on the inside whenever Big Tex says, "Howdy, folks" (OK, we made the last one up).

We wish the media team at the fair (which is stellar) could take this to Shark Tank. These details were clearly hashed out over some margs, the impetus of so many great ideas. App features would include:

Big Tex Mixer – Rate your love for iconic Fair activities and find your perfect match.
Swipe-a-Snack – Connect with fellow foodies based on your favorite Fair treats.
Midway Match – Meet your match through the games you love to play.
Fair-y Tale Date – Let Fairmates plan the perfect State Fair date for you and your special someone.

Listen here, as someone who has been married quite a while, if you still like someone after parking, buying coupons (again and again), washing down deep-fried Oreos with beer and seeing Boris, the relationship has potential. Give it time, kids. Don't swipe so fast.

The State Fair of Texas runs Sept. 26 through Oct. 19 this year. Stay tuned for real details.

Lauren Drewes Daniels is the food editor of the Dallas Observer. She started working as a freelance writer in 2013 and became editor in 2021. She covers Dallas' evolving dining scene, the many openings and closings as well as trends and breaking news. She oversees annual lists including Top 100 Bars and Top 100 Restaurants and contributes to the Best of Dallas. If you have a tip about an amazing pastry, pie or taco, let her know.

A message from Food & Drink Editor Lauren Drewes Daniels: If you value independent journalism, please consider making a contribution to support our continued coverage of Dallas' evolving dining scene and the latest culinary innovations our community offers.

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