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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 12, 2025

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Andrea Hawkins, Dallas Park and Recreation | (817) 994-2498 | andrea.hawkins@dallas.gov
Brett Wulke, Fair Park General Manager | (214) 960-9231 | brett.wulke@dallas.gov

City of Dallas assures Fair Park event organizers that all existing agreements will remain valid during the management transition

DALLAS - Dallas Park and Recreation leaders are assuring Fair Park event organizers that the department is committed to honoring existing rental and event agreements as it takes direct management of the historic park later this month. Despite inaccurate communications given to Fair Park clients and vendors regarding the termination of the venue management contract, park leaders are saying the transition of daily operations from OVG360 to the department will not disrupt their events.

“All current agreements remain valid,” said John D. Jenkins, Director, Dallas Park and Recreation Department. “We are excited to continue working closely with clients to ensure their events at Fair Park are a success and continue to bring enjoyment to park visitors. Dallas Park and Recreation will honor all existing contracts for upcoming park events,” added Jenkins.

In June, the department announced plans to formally terminate its management contract with the non-profit First Park First. Since 2019, First Park First has been responsible for overseeing the park's year-round programming, facility operations, and maintenance. This action also ends the City of Dallas’ relationship with OVG360, the venue management company subcontracted by Fair Park First to oversee Fair Park’s facilities and daily operations.

Fair Park remains fully operational and available for future bookings. Park and recreation staff are onsite at Fair Park and are available to support all upcoming events and to ensure a smooth operational transition for event organizers, existing campus partners and vendors.

For more than 137 years, Fair Park has been a cultural and historic cornerstone in Dallas, attracting millions of visitors annually. “Now under the direct leadership of the park department, our staff is committed to continuing that legacy with the same dedication to excellence, community, and service that clients, partners, and residents have come to expect,” said Brett Wulke, Fair Park general manager.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors and event organizers and vendors to Fair Park and celebrating its future together,” added Wulke.

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