There is so much to do at the California State Fair, we love visiting multiple times.  This year the California State Fair will be at Cal Expo starting THIS FRIDAY, July 13-29, 2018.  Of course, we love Fair food and the rides, the classic corn dog, and funnel cake is a must, I am always amazed once we attend of how much there is to see.

Some of our favorite spots at the Fair: The Petting Zoo, The Farm Presented by Savemart You can pick up a card at the information table and as you go around the farm you find stamps for certain fruits/vegetables, when you return you receive an apple and gift bag, which, makes a great healthy snack.  It is so nice to explore the farm and see the fruits and veggies growing.  In ‘The Farm’ area you can also touch fish (Sturgeon) and see the Insect Pavilion. 
We also enjoy visiting each of the expo buildings, there is always fun things to see.  Last year my boys loved the Dinosaur Exhibit and the Whale Tale Exhibit.  We enjoy the educational experience of Camp Smokey and the CA Forest Center.  There are also a lot of concerts.  
Have you heard of the Read to Ride Program?  My boys participated last year, it was easy and a great way to encourage them to read.  For every two books you read, receive two rides free at the 2018 California State Fair, July 13 – 29. The Read to Ride program is open to students kindergarten through eighth grade. Students must read two books, write a summary, then bring the completed form to the California State Fair Guest Services office (located inside the Main Gate) to receive two free rides.


Read to Ride Forms: Read to Ride 2018 English
There are a ton of events planned during the California State Fair.  Fireworks are presented by DISH every Friday and Saturday evening.  You can find all the details about special events here: http://www.castatefair.org/special-events/
These are a few of the events we are most excited about:
Jack in the Box Freestyle Motocross | Shows daily 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The California State Fair will be home to high flying aerial daredevils. Catch a free Jack in the Box Freestyle Motocross show during each of the 17 days of the Fair. Daily shows include top name athletes, music and an emcee calling tricks and giving fans an up-close and personal look at extreme riding. If you arrive early you can sign up to participate in a tricycle race where you could win a Jack in the Box gift card, my boys participated last year and loved it.
Poppy's Birthday | July 17, 2018 Time: 12 p.m. at the PG&E Center Stage
Come to celebrate another year older and better with your favorite golden bear, Poppy! Fairgoers of all ages are invited to enjoy music, live entertainment, free cupcakes provided by Save Mart and lots of fun with Poppy and other mascot friends. Don’t miss the California State Fair’s biggest birthday bash on the PG&E Center Stage!
$2 Taste of the Fair: Wednesdays and Thursdays (11 a.m.  – 4 p.m.)
Everyone knows that Fair food is delicious, but with so many options it’s hard to try everything. Now with the $2 Taste of the Fair, you can get smaller versions of all your favorite Fair foods – for only $2 a taste! This event is great for little ones, or simply anyone who wants to sample a variety of treats from their favorite Fair vendors. With all food vendors participating, there are plenty of tastes to please your palette. Whether a small snack or a full meal of minis, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy!
SMUD Cares at the Fair Giving Monday
Every Monday, bring at least 3 non-perishable food items per person to the California State Fair before 3 p.m. and receive free same-day admission. All donations will benefit the Elk Grove Food Bank. Top Items Needed Include: Canned meat (chicken or tuna), Peanut Butter, Disposable adult briefs, Ensure, Baby diapers, Socks  – all sizes, Canned fruit, Canned veggies, Soup, Beans, Mac and Cheese, Pasta, Boxed Mashed Potatoes, Packaged Rice, Top Ramen, and Cereal.
Wells Fargo $2 Rides for All and Kids Free Tuesdays | July 17 & 24, 2018
If you’re looking for some affordable fun in the sun this is the perfect event for you! Enjoy a day of fun for the whole family with $2 rides for everyone and free admission for kids 12 and under. With more than 70 thrilling rides and hundreds of exhibits, you’ll want to plan a full day of entertainment at the Fair. All of the fantastic activities that the California State Fair has to offer will guarantee an unforgettable visit!
Parking at Cal Expo is $15 and cash only so don’t forget your cash!
Be sure to download the State Fair App, it’s easy to use and you will have a schedule of events right in your hands.
The Lost Kids area is up front near the main gates.  Unfortunately, I had to use this service last year.  It is one of the scariest things to misplace a kid, I am thankful for the family who helped my six-year-old go to the Lost Kids Station and I am grateful he was safe.  If your kids are older it is good to have a meeting place and also be sure they know your phone number or have it on them. I hope you are able to go out and enjoy the California State Fair this year and make some summer fun memories! 
Location: 1600 Exposition Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95815

For Ticket Prices please visit the website because there are pre-sale prices and at the gate prices and some great bundles that can help save you money.  

Children ages 4 & under are free.  You can get a season pass which also includes Raging Waters for $35.99 and there is a Lady Bird Package and Sacramento Zoo Combo Ticket available as well.  

Tickets: http://www.castatefair.org/tickets18/

A few more Promotional Days to keep in mind:
Senior Savings Friday: Discount admission of $10 for seniors 62 & better. Plus, seniors ride FREE on the Grand Carousel and the Giant Wheel.
Military & Veteran Appreciation Day Presented by BloodSource: July 19 – FREE admission all day for active, retired, veterans and reserve military personnel with Military ID.
First Responders Appreciation Day Presented by BloodSource: July 26 – FREE admission all day for first responders and law enforcement with ID.

For more information and the daily schedule of events visit the CA State Fair Website at: http://www.castatefair.org/. Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.  www.BlogAboutItAll.com.