The California State Fair celebrates 50 years of fun at Cal Expo in Sacramento this year, so head out July 14 - 30 and help them celebrate this milestone anniversary. Don't miss out on the best days of summer. Indulge in deep-fried treats, taste some farm-fresh fare, meander Camp Smokey, peruse the county exhibits, ride some thrilling rides and catch a free concert at one of the many entertainment stages.
Food & Drink: Wine taste your way through California with award-winning wines in the Save Mart Wine Garden or grab a seat at the craft brew pub and enjoy more than 50 taps. From deep-fried and barbecued foods to fresh fruits and veggies, there is something for everyone to indulge in. Can't make up your mind? Go to the fair on a Wednesday or Thursday from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. for $2 Taste of the Fair and get smaller versions of all your favorite Fair foods – for only $2 a taste!
The Animals: The Tractor Supply Co. Big Barn, the heart of the fair's livestock area, is the place to be for livestock shows and competitions. Educate yourself about the specific practices that go into raising furry friends such as cows, lambs and kids at the Animal Education Center. Fir & Feathers allows fairgoers to get an up-close look at multiple breeds of cavy, rabbits, exotic birds, and other small animals
Exhibits: Meander through the Golden State at the California Counties Exhibit. See chefs battle it out, visit the cooking demonstration area, sample produce and much more at the Save Mart California Kitchen. Don't forget the California Forest Center for some shade provided by 40 native species of trees in a relaxing atmosphere. There are a number of exhibits to not miss from classic cars and authors to arts and crafts.
Concerts, Shows and Events: Sit back and enjoy 17 days of music, dance, cultural performances and stage shows.The Toyota Concert Series lineup includes Belinda Carlisle, Blues Traveler and Melissa Ethridge, just to name a few. No matter where you are in the fair, a performance is nearby, whether it's a hypnotist show, dance performance, magic act or corn dog eating contest! You won't want to miss the Wienerschnitzel Weiner Dog Races on July 15, Poppy's Birthday on July 18 or the California State Fair Cornhole Championships on July 29!
New to 2017: Head to the Save Mart California Kitchen for two new exhibits! The Herbal Experience will have docents and herb growers on hand to give tips and information about how to grow your own fresh herbs and how to use them in your cooking. The Taste of California Education Center is a classroom for fair guests who want to learn all about two of California’s most beloved agricultural products, olive oil and wine.
Tickets & Specials: Special advanced ticket pricing through Thursday, July 13, can be purchased here. Individual tickets start at just $6, and family packs, season passes and ride wristbands are all available too. There is FREE admission for children 4 and under.
For a complete list of fair hours, click here.
Senior Savings Fridays: Discount admission of $8 for seniors 62 & better every Friday. Plus, seniors ride FREE on the Grand Carousel and the Giant Wheel
Wells Fargo $2 Rides for all & Kids Free Tuesdays: FREE admission for kids 12 and under and $2 rides for all ages
Military & Veteran Appreciation Day Presented by BloodSource, July 20: FREE admission all day for active, retired, veterans and reserve military personnel with Military ID
First Responders Appreciation Day Presented by BloodSource, July 27: FREE admission all day for first responders and law enforcement with ID
With the 2017 theme of “California – Memories in the Making,” head on down, celebrate the best of California and make some memories with your friends and family.
Cal Expo is located at 1600 Exposition Blvd. For more information, visit the California State Fair website.