Concerts, carnival rides and racing pigs: Your guide to Sacramento County Fair
Heading to the 2026 Sacramento County Fair? You’ll find pig races and monster trucks, along with the more traditional concerts, carnival rides and livestock shows and concerts.
The fair kicks off Thursday, May 21, at Cal Expo in Sacramento.
The fair began in 1937 in Galt, where it remained until 1957, fair organizers said. The event moved to the state fairgrounds on Stockton Boulevard before relocating again in 1969 to Cal Expo.
The fair seeks to educate children and adults about the importance of agriculture.
“For a majority of Sacramento and some exhibitors, the county fair is the only agricultural experience they will ever have,” organizers said. “But, as they become responsible citizens, they will make decisions that could affect the way we all live and do business.”
Here’s what you need to know:
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When is the Sacramento County Fair in 2026? Where?
The Sacramento County Fair is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Cal Expo, 1600 Exposition Blvd. in Sacramento.
On Monday, the fair will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
What are prices for fair tickets? Carnival wristbands?
Fair tickets cost $14 at the gate, or $12 for children ages 12 to 16. Kids under 12 get in free.
On Thursday, Senior Day, fairgoers age 62 and up get free admission.
On Monday, Memorial Day, retired and active military will receive free admission.
Admission to arena and grandstand events is not included with general fair admission.
Grandstand tickets cost $15 apiece, while arena tickets are $22 for the rodeo and $22.50 to $47.50 for monster trucks. For $110, you can get a four-pack of tickets.
Carnival wristbands for all-day rides are $38 at the fair.
How much is parking?
Parking is $10. Wheelchair and wagon rental is $20 on a first-come, first-served basis.
Who’s performing in concert at the fair?
Musical acts scheduled to perform on the main stage during the four-day Sacramento County Fair include Sunset River Band, Remedy 7, Dane Madden, Ninth Circle, Corazon de Mana, Gunpowder & Lace and The Drumheads.
Eventgoers can also catch performances by comedian Dane Madden, hypnotist Tina Marie and the acrobatic Wilder Show, organizers said.
What livestock events will be at the fair?
Livestock shows and auctions at the fair will feature goats, swine, cattle, poultry, sheep and rabbits, along with dogs.
What else can I see and do at the fair?
The Sacramento County Fair includes a carnival with several rides suitable for children.
“Pig racers, tractor pulls, animal petting farm as well as several strolling entertainment acts to bring a little extra fun to your day,” organizers said.
BMX stunt shows, sand sculptures, reptiles, birds of prey, a mini railroad and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles also will be part of the show all four days.
Food at the fair includes baked potatoes, ice cream, chicken on a stick, mini-doughnuts, funnel cakes, hot dogs, Mexican food, pretzels and other traditional fare.
Arena events include the Monster X Tour at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 1 p.m. Monday and Stars & Stripes Memorial Rodeo at 7 p.m. Saturday.
Grandstand events include dirt drag racing at 6 p.m. Saturday and 4x4 truck pulls at 2 p.m. Sunday.