First time going to the California State Fair? Here are the highlights
The California State Fair is back in Sacramento Friday after a two-year COVID-induced hiatus.
Bee journalists visited the fair grounds Wednesday for a media day to gather the best bits to share with you before you head out. The fair runs July 15 to July 31 at CalExpo.
Whether it’s your first time ever — or just your first time in a while — here are some notable stops, costs and considerations:
What you’ll see at the California State Fair
Among the carnival rides, food vendors, games and competitions you’ll find several family-friendly exhibits, potential date spots and fun treat-yourself adventures.
Downloading the California State Fair app on your phone can help you customize and maximize your day (or days) at the fair.
Here are some highlights:
FAMILY STOPS
After walking in, keep in mind you have the option to rent a stroller or wheelchair for members of your party.
One must see for all ages: the Toytopia exhibit in building four.
When was the last time you gave into your inner child? This exhibit is not just for kids, as it offers history of iconic toys and a chance to play with them.
Notable mentions are: arcade games like Ms. PacMan, a three-room play house with sound buttons and a kitchen set, and extra large Lite Brite and Battleship sets.
This room blends generations in a non-stop noisy environment.
You may also want to catch the Cats and Dogs educational exhibit, so your kids can get in the mindset of the animals they likely know best. Kids and adults can see how their jumping and running abilities compare to your furry friends — but there won’t be any actual puppies to pet.
But, then you could head over to the L3 Show Ring to see actual, live animals. This area has livestock judging, with farm animals. It’s meant to be educational and entertaining for the whole family.
When the cuteness levels get too much, head over to the petting zoo.
A TREAT YOURSELF (OR YOUR DATE) DAY
For those over 21, the fair is offering an educational touring exhibit that showcases California cannabis.
You can scan through walls of weed science at the cannabis exhibit, located in building one.
If you’ve never been to a cannabis dispensary, this is the perfect “opportunity for the uninitiated,” said Therapeutic Alternative’s Dispensary Manager Danny Kress.
“It will dispel any preconceived notions,” he told The Bee.
No THC or psychoactive products will be present, only informational material about what’s on the market today. But you can pick up a non-psychoactive cannabis-strain-infused slushy.
There are plenty of chances to test out different options of wine and beer. Head over to Building A to find a wine garden and beer pub.
Want to drink with a show? Download the California State Fair mobile app to find out what is playing on the day you plan to visit.
Across from the cannibis exhibit, you’ll see the silent disco in building five. The returning event is offering three DJs and a dancefloor, according to the California State Fair app.
STOP FOR FOOD
Both food trucks and stands will line the paths of the state fair this year with tacos, Greek food, hot dogs, churros, chicken and more.
CalExpo’s Food Festival pass is available for those who want to unlock exclusive dishes that have been entered into the food competition.
Cooking shows are coming to life at Save Mart California’s Kitchen over the course of the fair. Be sure to check out the fair app to find a cooking class, sampling booth or demonstration. Give your other senses a chance to take part in a cooking show, not just your eyes.
WINDOW SHOPPING
If you’re near the food vendors and like to shop (or just window shop), a tent full of artisan creators and practical services is close. This is the perfect place to take a break from the heat.
You’ll find booths for everything from teeth cleaning to hot tubs.
SNAP AN INSTAGRAM PHOTO
Check out the Candy Maze Selfie Exhibit. It features cutouts and backdrops to pose in front of, along with more candy than you should probably eat. Be on the lookout for flavored worms and crickets next to the average Laffy Taffy or KitKat.
CONCERTS AND MORE
If you’re interested in live performances — from headlining bands to a hypnotist or equestrian shows — be sure to download the app and see what your travel date is offering.
Concerts include:
- Friday, July 15: Chaka Khan
- Saturday, July 16: Neon Trees
- Sunday, July 17: Night Ranger
- Monday, July 18: 24K Magic, a Bruno Mars Tribute
- Tuesday, July 19: Clay Walker
- Wednesday, July 20: KC and the Sunshine Band
- Thursday, July 21: The Guess Who
- Friday, July 22: ABBA the Concert, a tribute to ABBA
- Saturday, July 23: Los Lonely Boys
- Sunday, July 24: Mariachi Vargas
- Monday, July 25: Journey Revisited
- Tuesday, July 26: Queen Nation
- Wednesday, July 27: Chase Rice
- Thursday, July 28: TLC
- Friday, July 29: Blanco Brown
- Saturday, July 30: Smash Mouth
- Sunday, July 31: Quebradita Time ($50 admission, but includes fair admission)
COSTS
General admission for adults is $14. Kids 4 and under are free, 5 to 12 years old are $10 and seniors 62 and up are $12.
You can find parking and maps on the CalExpo California State Fair website.
Some deals to keep in mind for those on a budget are:
Wednesday and Thursday from 11 to 4 p.m. $2 Taste of the Fair. Vendors will feature items such as personal bites of funnel cake and small bowls of refreshing tzatziki covered fries.
Tuesday $2 Rides for All. Normally a dollar equals a “coupon”, with rides needing up to 10 coupons.
Be on the lookout for weekday food and carnival ride deals to share with your friends so everyone can join in the festivities.
This story was originally published July 15, 2022 at 5:00 AM.