The 24-day run of the 2018 State Fair of Texas kicked off September 28 in historic Fair Park.

On opening weekend, we took in all the sights and sounds of this annual extravaganza, capturing often missed moments to give you a compelling, nostalgia-filled look at this Texas tradition.

The Texas Skyway passes in front of the Cotton Bowl and across the fairgrounds.

A State Fair employee works the coupon stand.

Kids swing sky high on the Midway rides.

Keeping a watchful eye above the Midway.

On the Midway, a man takes a bite into the classic corn dog.

A woman cools off by running through the fountain.

The 212-foot tall Texas Star Ferris wheel towers over the fairgrounds.

A young boy stands in awe of Big Tex, official greeter and icon of the State Fair of Texas.

The Kilgore Rangerettes put on a show for the opening ceremony.

The US Marine Corps band stands tall for the opening ceremony.

Creagh Cross is a Dallas-based assignment, event and freelance photographer of people, places and things. Follow him on Instagram @creagh

Cover photo courtesy Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas