A fire broke out at the State Fair of Texas, severely damaging a game stand and leaving a trail of scorched stuffed animals in its wake.
According to Dallas Fire-Rescue, just before 7:10 a.m., crews were called to the reported fire at a balloon pop stand on The Midway. When they arrived, large plumes of black smoke were visible.
"A large column of smoke could be seen upon arrival," DFR Public Information Officer Jason Evans said. "When firefighters arrived on location, they discovered fire coming from the balloon pop game."
The blaze was contained within 20 minutes, but the stand sustained major damage. "Firefighters are still putting out hot spots located within several stuffed animals and other prizes," Evans said.
The State Fair of Texas was not open at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported, officials said.
Investigators determined that an electrical shortage sparked the flame.
This is the second notable fire at the State Fair of Texas, but park visitors are relieved that Big Tex, the fair's 52-foot mascot, was not affected this time.
In 2012, Big Tex was burned to a steel skeleton on the year of his 60th birthday. Investigators determined that the fire was triggered by a short-circuiting issue in his upper torso.
"I never understood how important he was until the day he caught fire," one observer recalled. "People were crying. They had their hands over their hearts."
Heartbroken Texans created a vigil for the scorched mascot, delivering cards and bouquets made of corn dogs.
Big Tex returned the following year and has been a staple of the annual State Fair of Texas ever since.
The State Fair of Texas attracts over 2 million visitors each year.
The month-long spectacle includes rodeo events, concerts, and food vendors from all across the Lone Star State.
The State Fair of Texas spans over 277 acres at Fair Park in Dallas. The Red River Showdown, a rivalry college football game between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners, is also held at the State Fair of Texas.
Following the blaze, the State Fair of Texas will resume its normal business hours, with the burned area barricaded.
