Disclosure: I am part of the California State Fair media program, in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, I am provided with complimentary tickets. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.
The California State Fair opens THIS Friday, July 11, 2025, the Fair will be open through Sunday, July, 27, 2025! We love enjoying the California State Fair. I have to say the food and exhibits are our favorites. I love sharing ways you can save and enjoy the Fair with your family. Here are some dates and special events you should know about.
Family Discount Days will be on Mondays, July 14th and July 21st. Make Mondays with Family Discount Day! Each Monday during the Fair, from 4 PM to 6 PM, admission is just $2 per person, making it easier than ever to bring the whole family out for an evening of fun.
On Tuesdays, July 15th and July 22nd, kids 12 and under are free.
You can also save at the Fair by going on SMUD Giving Fridays, July 11, 18, and 25th. Get into the California State Fair for FREE with SMUD Giving Friday! From 10 AM to 2 PM, bring five or more non-expired, non-perishable food items per person to support Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. In return, you’ll receive a same-day admission ticket, courtesy of SMUD—just be sure to use it by 3 PM.
For kids in grades TK through 8th grade you can participate the the read to ride program. For every two books you read, receive two (2) rides and one (1) monorail ticket for FREE at the California State Fair! A $15.00 value.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 and one monorail ticket. Read to Ride redemption valid any day of the Fair. Only one report form per child per day will be accepted. For more information and to download the report form click here.
If you or someone you know loves Monster Trucks, you want to visit on Sunday, July 13th. There is an additional ticket fee of $14 for this event and two showtimes 3 PM and 7 PM. Feel the roar and thrill at the Monster Truck Show! Watch giant trucks crush cars, fly through the air, and battle it out in jaw-dropping stunts. Fun for all ages - don’t miss the action, get your tickets now! Click here to purchase Monster Truck Tickets!
A family favorite for us is Viva La Mariachi Day, which will be Sunday, July 20th. The California State Fair seeks to continue that legacy by highlighting the contributions of groups and individuals who have helped shape the heritage of California. Celebrate the rich tradition of mariachi music that has helped weave the social and cultural tapestry of California. Come experience the music, culture, and vibrant spirit at Viva El Mariachi.
If you want to catch some of your favorite artists at the California State Fair, you can find all the details on the Concert series here. The Toyota Concert series is free with State Fair Admission, you can line up at the back of the stage venue starting at 5 PM, those are first served seats in the general admission area. Free seats are limited to the first 700 guests. There are paid seats available starting at $40. Don't wait to get your tickets, Ludacris is already sold out.
Things to know before you visit the California State Fair. They have a clear bag policy and no bags larger than 12"x12"x2". Coolers are allowed but must be attached to a wagon. You can bring in outside food, coolers are subject to search just like bags. You can bring in sealed plastic water bottles but no glass, aluminum or hydro flasks, no metal water bottles. There is also an unaccompanied minors policy. All minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21 and older.
There will be fireworks on Fridays and Saturdays at 10 PM.
Advanced Tickets online are $16 for adults, $10 for kids ages 5-12, and advanced senior tickets 62 years and older are $12.These prices include all fees and taxes.
Parking for one day is $17, and for a three-day parking pass it is $33. Please note that the parking lot closes at 7 PM, no entrance will be allowed after 7 PM.
For more information about various tickets and ticket packages, click here.
Here are some tips to help you enjoy your visit.
Freeze Water Bottles, make sure they are sealed.
Take a handheld fan, one of those mist ones is the best.
Get there early, spend a few hours, and then head home for a break and return in the evening hours when it is cooler.
A great place to cool off is at the Bonney Cooling Stations, they have shade, chairs, and large fans to help cool you off. There are four stations at the main entrance next to the old Raging Waters. Behind Building 6 near Heart Health Park. In the Spa Area in front of Building A and West of the Rodeo Arena.
When you need a place to cool off, head to the exhibit buildings. My kids could spend a long time in there exploring and enjoying the hands-on activities.
As always, I share a lot more in video form, check out our TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. I truly appreciate every one of you who reads my blog posts, and thank you for every like, comment, and share.
CA State Fair Opens Friday, July 11, 2025
Disclosure: I am part of the California State Fair media program, in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, I am provided with complimentary tickets. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.
The California State Fair opens THIS Friday, July 11, 2025, the Fair will be open through Sunday, July, 27, 2025! We love enjoying the California State Fair. I have to say the food and exhibits are our favorites. I love sharing ways you can save and enjoy the Fair with your family. Here are some dates and special events you should know about.
Family Discount Days will be on Mondays, July 14th and July 21st. Make Mondays with Family Discount Day! Each Monday during the Fair, from 4 PM to 6 PM, admission is just $2 per person, making it easier than ever to bring the whole family out for an evening of fun.
On Tuesdays, July 15th and July 22nd, kids 12 and under are free.
You can also save at the Fair by going on SMUD Giving Fridays, July 11, 18, and 25th. Get into the California State Fair for FREE with SMUD Giving Friday! From 10 AM to 2 PM, bring five or more non-expired, non-perishable food items per person to support Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. In return, you’ll receive a same-day admission ticket, courtesy of SMUD—just be sure to use it by 3 PM.
For kids in grades TK through 8th grade you can participate the the read to ride program. For every two books you read, receive two (2) rides and one (1) monorail ticket for FREE at the California State Fair! A $15.00 value.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 and one monorail ticket. Read to Ride redemption valid any day of the Fair. Only one report form per child per day will be accepted. For more information and to download the report form click here.
If you or someone you know loves Monster Trucks, you want to visit on Sunday, July 13th. There is an additional ticket fee of $14 for this event and two showtimes 3 PM and 7 PM. Feel the roar and thrill at the Monster Truck Show! Watch giant trucks crush cars, fly through the air, and battle it out in jaw-dropping stunts. Fun for all ages - don’t miss the action, get your tickets now! Click here to purchase Monster Truck Tickets!
A family favorite for us is Viva La Mariachi Day, which will be Sunday, July 20th. The California State Fair seeks to continue that legacy by highlighting the contributions of groups and individuals who have helped shape the heritage of California. Celebrate the rich tradition of mariachi music that has helped weave the social and cultural tapestry of California. Come experience the music, culture, and vibrant spirit at Viva El Mariachi.
If you want to catch some of your favorite artists at the California State Fair, you can find all the details on the Concert series here. The Toyota Concert series is free with State Fair Admission, you can line up at the back of the stage venue starting at 5 PM, those are first served seats in the general admission area. Free seats are limited to the first 700 guests. There are paid seats available starting at $40. Don't wait to get your tickets, Ludacris is already sold out.
Things to know before you visit the California State Fair. They have a clear bag policy and no bags larger than 12"x12"x2". Coolers are allowed but must be attached to a wagon. You can bring in outside food, coolers are subject to search just like bags. You can bring in sealed plastic water bottles but no glass, aluminum or hydro flasks, no metal water bottles. There is also an unaccompanied minors policy. All minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21 and older.
There will be fireworks on Fridays and Saturdays at 10 PM.
Advanced Tickets online are $16 for adults, $10 for kids ages 5-12, and advanced senior tickets 62 years and older are $12.These prices include all fees and taxes.
Parking for one day is $17, and for a three-day parking pass it is $33. Please note that the parking lot closes at 7 PM, no entrance will be allowed after 7 PM.
For more information about various tickets and ticket packages, click here.
Here are some tips to help you enjoy your visit.
Freeze Water Bottles, make sure they are sealed.
Take a handheld fan, one of those mist ones is the best.
Get there early, spend a few hours, and then head home for a break and return in the evening hours when it is cooler.
A great place to cool off is at the Bonney Cooling Stations, they have shade, chairs, and large fans to help cool you off. There are four stations at the main entrance next to the old Raging Waters. Behind Building 6 near Heart Health Park. In the Spa Area in front of Building A and West of the Rodeo Arena.
When you need a place to cool off, head to the exhibit buildings. My kids could spend a long time in there exploring and enjoying the hands-on activities.
As always, I share a lot more in video form, check out our TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. I truly appreciate every one of you who reads my blog posts, and thank you for every like, comment, and share.
