Cowboys, marching bands, beauty queens, and Elvis impersonators on motorcycles converged on downtown Dallas Friday to kick off the State Fair of Texas.

The opening parade always takes place around lunchtime, so those of us who work downtown were able to take a quick break from our work day to enjoy the spectacle and the fun!

Of course there was a float depicting livestock.

There was a nod to some frontier heritage, with a covered wagon atop another float.

A man who appeared to be dipped in gold stood atop a music-themed float.

And somewhat curiously, there was even an ocean-themed float, although we are landlocked here in Texas.

The real fun came when a cowboy miniature version of Big Tex waved at the crowd from atop another float.

And of course, the high school and college marching bands offered the real energy!

This nice gentleman was promoting the value of milk.

This nice lady also waved hello!

Related Links:

• State Fair of Texas Website