Opening Day and Wednesday discounts return, offering visitors a way to support families facing food insecurity
Little Tex and NTFB Peanut Butter Mascot
Special Discounts for Food Donations
Dallas, TX, Sept. 21, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the State Fair of Texas prepares to open its gates on Friday, September 25, fairgoers will once again can turn their visit into meaningful action. Through its long-standing partnership with the North Texas Food Bank (NTFB), the Fair is inviting attendees to participate in the annual “Feed the Need” food drive by donating nonperishable items that help nourish families across the region.
Since the collaboration began in 1995, Fair visitors have contributed more than 4.9 million pounds of canned food to support hunger relief efforts. Last year’s donations alone provided approximately 121,000 meals for neighbors in need.
“Community generosity is one of the most cherished traditions of the State Fair,” said Jennifer Schuder, Senior Vice President of Customer Engagement for the State Fair of Texas. “Every jar and every can donated reflects the spirit of Texans looking out for one another. Fairgoers appreciate knowing their visit brings joy and support to families who need it.”
Special Discounts for Food Donations
Opening Day – Friday, September 25
Guests who bring two 16-ounce jars of peanut butter between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. will receive a $10 admission voucher. Peanut butter remains one of NTFB’s most requested items and plays a key role in the organization’s annual Peanut Butter Drive.
Wednesdays at the Fair
Visitors who donate five canned food items between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. will receive a $7 admission voucher.
Volunteer Opportunities
Fairgoers can also support hunger relief by volunteering with NTFB during the Fair. Volunteers help collect donations and share information about hunger in North Texas. Each volunteer receives a “Feed the Need” T-shirt and a return admission voucher. Sign up at www.ntfb.org/statefair.
“This is our largest food drive of the year, and it comes at a moment when many families are struggling to keep food on the table,” said Trisha Cunningham, President and CEO of the North Texas Food Bank. “With one in four children in North Texas at risk of hunger, the support we receive through the State Fair is vital. These donations help us provide nutritious food that allows children and families to thrive.”
For details on how to donate, volunteer, or participate in the “Feed the Need” food drive, visit www.ntfb.org/statefair.
About North Texas Food Bank
North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) is a leading nonprofit organization that fights hunger and provides children, seniors and families in North Texas access to nutritious food. For over 40 years, we have been at the forefront of hunger relief, committed to ensuring that no one in our community lacks access to healthy food. Our extensive network of 500 food pantries and organizations, volunteers, and donors enables us to deliver more than 141 million meals last year to those in need. Beyond just addressing hunger, we focus on nourishing lives by offering nutrition education, investing in our network partners, innovating solutions to eliminate hunger and advocating for policies that tackle the root causes of food insecurity.
Our dedication to excellence is reflected in our 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, highlighting our strong governance, integrity, and financial stability. As a proud member of Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger relief network, we are committed to ensuring everyone in North Texas has the nourishment needed to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. For more information, visit http://www.ntfb.org/ or connect with us on social media @NorthTexasFoodBank.
About the State Fair of Texas
Since its inception in 1886, the State Fair of Texas has celebrated all things Texan by promoting agriculture, education, and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment. The State Fair of Texas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with proceeds helping to preserve and improve our home, Fair Park; underwrite museums, community initiatives, and scholarship programs to support students throughout the Lone Star State pursuing higher education; and help improve State Fair operations. The 2026 exposition runs from September 25 through October 18 in Fair Park. Visit BigTex.com for more information.
Attachments
- Little Tex and NTFB Peanut Butter Mascot
- Special Discounts for Food Donations
CONTACT: Jeff Smith North Texas Food Bank 469-891-7022 [email protected] Taylor Pulfer State Fair of Texas 785-969-3329 [email protected]
