Big Tex Wants New Boots—And You Could Design Them

Big Tex is looking for a fresh new pair of handmade custom boots; the State Fair of Texas and Lucchese Boots want your help designing them.

The 2026 Big Tex Boot Design Contest, presented by Lucchese Bootmaker, officially opened today. Fair fans are invited to create the next custom design for Big Tex’s famous size 96 boots, which will make their debut at the 2026 State Fair of Texas.

Big Tex Needs a New Pair of Boots - How's Your Texas Art?

In 2023, designer Jessica Bonilla (below) of Irving took home first place, earning the chance to work with Lucchese and the Fair to turn her winning design into Big Tex’s current boots. Now, the contest is back to give another creative Texan the same opportunity.

Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas

How to Enter the Big Tex Boot Design Contest

Participants can draw, paint, or illustrate their dream boot design using templates available at BigTex.com/DesignMyBoots. Entries must be submitted with an official form and postmarked by January 31, 2026, to qualify.

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Winner to Be Announced March 2, 2026

The winning design will be announced on March 2, 2026, giving one lucky artist bragging rights as the creator of the most iconic boots in the Lone Star State.

Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas

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 Fair is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The 2026 exposition runs from September 25 through October 18 at Fair Park. Visit BigTex.com for more information.

About Lucchese Bootmaker

Founded in 1883, Lucchese is an iconic Western lifestyle brand based in Texas. Known for its artisan-crafted cowboy boots. The brand is renowned for its handmade craftsmanship, quality, and timeless style. For more information, visit Lucchese.com.