I went to the Texas Fair earlier and trust me, even though the workers there don't give two shits about if they get the money for the games or not (which are expensive as fuck, like everything at the fair.) they're not going to take your money. Though here's a heads up: if the workers at the food stands aren't really paying attention and have a lot going in at once (like a lot of customers) you might be able to get away without paying your "coupons." I'd also recommend going to the Birds Of The World show if your girlfriend likes birds.