Big Tex, the 55-foot-tall cowboy mascot, took his post as the official State Fair of Texas welcomer at 10 a.m. Friday.
This year, State Fair of Texas officials said Big Tex has a new "accessory to enhance his Texan spirit."
Big Tex, the 55-foot-tall cowboy mascot, took his post as the official State Fair of Texas welcomer at 10 a.m. Friday. Video shows workers putting Big Tex's boots on.
Big Tex should remain silent during this event, saving his voice until his signature "Howdy, Folks!" greeting on Opening Day, Sept. 28.
That billowing greeting is a tradition that's held steady for decades. However, Big Tex has undergone a few makeovers over the years.
Big Tex: Then and Now
| 1952 - 2012 | 2013 - Present | |
| Height: | 52 ft. | 55 ft. |
| Chest | 31 ft. | 33 ft. 9 in. |
| Biceps | 7 ft. 8 in. | 10 ft. 9 in. |
| Boots | 7 ft. 7 in. | 12 ft. |
| Hands | 3 ft. | 5 ft. 6 in. |
| Head | 8 ft. | 10 ft. |
| Inseam | 16 ft. | 20 ft. |
| Shoulders | 12 ft. 6 in. | 13 ft. |
| Sleeves | 22 ft. 6 in. | 13 ft. |
| Neck | 10 ft. | 11 ft. |
| Waist | 23 ft. 6 in. | 27 ft. |
| Collar | 12 ft. 6 in. | 16 ft. 8 in. |
| Hat | 75 gallon | 95 gallon |
| Boot Size | 70 | 96 |
| Original Cost | $750 | $500,000 |
Online: BigTex.com
