The historic California State Fair just kicked off its 2026 run, lasting 17 days from July 17 through August 2 in Sacramento. The historic tradition dates back to 1854, although this year will be its last summer event before it switches to a fall schedule starting in 2027.
In its earlier renditions, the fair typically took place in late summer or early fall, until organizers moved the dates up into July in 2010 to work around school calendars.
But with the brutal mid-summer heat of Sacramento, officials have decided to move it back to September-October to take advantage of cooler evenings and better conditions for animals and workers. Next year, the event will take place from September 17 through October 3, 2027.
Here’s a closer look at what’s going on this year.
From Gold Rush roots to 2026 rides and concerts
The California State Fair began as an agriculture-focused showcase during the Gold Rush in 1854. Today, it’s a weeks-long party at Cal Expo that still celebrates farming and livestock, but adds the excitement of big-name concerts, fairground rides, and over-the-top food.
This year, the fair continues to tap into that classic Americana: expect prize-winning animals, deep-fried everything, wine slushies, new cannabis-friendly spaces, and carnival games. Special exhibitions include a stunning lowrider showcase, an immersive King Tut experience, the “Rustic Charm” vintage marketplace, and a colorful America 250 maze.
Consider planning your visit around one of the many fantastic live concerts, from Ja Rule on July 24 to Boyz II Men on July 31.
California State Fair 2026 at a glance
📍 Location: Cal Expo, 1600 Exposition Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815
📅 Dates: July 17 – August 2, 2026
⏰ Hours: New fair hours with evenings running to 11 p.m.; weekday gates typically open at 4 p.m, weekends at 10 a.m.
🎟️ Tickets: Advanced single-day tickets start at $16 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for children. Same-day prices are $2 higher, and packages and wristbands are available.
🌐 Website: CAStateFair.com