Complete Guide to the Ventura County Fair 2026 in Ventura, CA – Dates, Tickets, Concerts, Carnival Rides, Food Vendors, and Family Events
The Ventura County Fair 2026 returns this summer to the Ventura County Fairgrounds, bringing twelve days of entertainment, carnival rides, concerts, food vendors, and agricultural exhibits to California’s beautiful Central Coast.
Held annually in Ventura, California, the Ventura County Fair is one of the most popular summer events in Southern California and throughout the 805 region of California. Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors attend the fair from cities across Ventura County including Oxnard, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Ojai, Moorpark, Simi Valley, Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Port Hueneme.
Photo Credit: Ventura County Fairgrounds
With its famous slogan “A Country Fair with Ocean Air,” the fair in Ventura County offers a one-of-a-kind experience where guests can enjoy classic fair attractions while overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
From thrilling carnival rides and live music performances to livestock shows and classic fair food, the fair in Ventura County continues to be a cherished tradition for families throughout California.
Ventura County Fair 2026 Dates
The 2026 fair in Ventura County will take place: July 29 – August 9, 2026
The fair runs for twelve exciting days and features daily events, entertainment, concerts, and competitions.
Location:
Ventura County Fairgrounds
10 West Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001
The fairgrounds sit directly along the Ventura coastline near the historic Ventura Pier, providing one of the most scenic fair locations in the United States.
History of the Ventura County Fair
The county fair has a long and proud history dating back to 1875, when it was first established as the Ventura County Agricultural Fair.
In its earliest years, the fair served as a showcase for the region’s agricultural community. Farmers from across Ventura County brought livestock, crops, and handmade goods to display and compete for awards.
Ventura County’s fertile farmland—particularly in areas like Oxnard, Camarillo, Santa Paula, and Fillmore—has long been known for producing citrus, strawberries, avocados, and other agricultural products.
In 1921, the fair moved to its permanent location at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, also known as Seaside Park. Located along the Pacific Ocean, the fairgrounds provide a unique coastal setting that has become a defining feature of the event.
Over the decades, the fair expanded from an agricultural showcase into a major regional festival featuring:
- Carnival rides and games
- Live concerts and entertainment
- Livestock competitions
- 4-H and FFA youth exhibits
- Food vendors and fair cuisine
- Rodeos and motorized events
- Art and craft competitions
Despite challenges such as economic downturns and the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to cancellations in 2020 and 2021, the fair in Ventura County continues to thrive as one of the most beloved summer traditions in Ventura County.
Ventura County Fair Concerts and Grandstand Entertainment
Live music and entertainment are among the biggest attractions at the Ventura County Fair.
Each year the fair hosts a lineup of concerts featuring nationally recognized musicians, tribute bands, and local Ventura County artists. Performances typically take place at the Grandstand Arena, where visitors can enjoy concerts with the ocean breeze just steps away.
Many county fair concerts are included with general fair admission, making the event one of the best entertainment values in Southern California.
The Official Ventura County Fair 2026 Concert Lineup
The 2026 Ventura County Fair Concert Series brings an exciting lineup of nationally known artists to the Toyota Grandstand Stage. Included with fair admission, the Chumash Casino Resort Concert Series features a variety of music genres and entertainment throughout the week.
- Wednesday, July 29 – Bush opens the fair with a high-energy rock performance.
- Thursday, July 30 – Marshmello brings electronic dance music and festival-style excitement.
- Friday, July 31 – Iration delivers laid-back reggae and island vibes.
- Saturday, August 1 – Country star Jake Owen takes the stage for a night of country hits.
- Sunday, August 2 – Herencia de Patrones featuring Banda Maguey and Banda Toro showcases Regional Mexican music.
- Monday, August 3 – Ashanti featuring Bow Wow combines R&B and hip-hop favorites.
- Tuesday, August 4 – Switchfoot and Hoobastank team up for an unforgettable rock concert.
- Wednesday, August 5 – Rising country artist Nate Smith closes out the concert series.
With performances ranging from rock and country to EDM, reggae, Latin music, and hip-hop, the Ventura County Fair offers live entertainment for music fans of all ages. The concert series continues to be one of the fair’s biggest attractions each summer at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.
Ventura County Fair Carnival Rides and Midway
The county fair midway is packed with exciting rides, games, and attractions for visitors of all ages.
Thrill seekers can enjoy high-energy rides that spin, swing, and soar high above the fairgrounds. Families and younger visitors will find plenty of classic carnival rides and kid-friendly attractions as well.
Midway highlights include:
- Giant Ferris wheels with ocean views
- High-speed thrill rides
- Classic carnival rides for families
- Games with prizes and souvenirs
The colorful lights and music of the midway create one of the most exciting atmospheres at the fair in Ventura County.
Ventura County Fair Food Vendors
No visit to the a county fair would be complete without trying the wide variety of food vendors located throughout the fairgrounds.
Visitors can enjoy traditional fair favorites along with creative new treats.
Popular fair foods include:
- Corn dogs
- Funnel cakes
- BBQ and grilled meats
- Fresh lemonade
- Fried desserts
- Ice cream and specialty sweets
Many vendors also feature regional flavors and specialty dishes that highlight the culinary culture of Ventura County.
Agricultural Exhibits and Livestock Shows
Agriculture remains a central part of the county fair’s tradition. Each year visitors can explore livestock barns where youth from 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA) proudly showcase animals they have raised and cared for throughout the year. These exhibits highlight the dedication of young farmers and ranchers across Ventura County while preserving the region’s deep agricultural heritage.
Visitors to the fairgrounds can see a wide variety of livestock including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and poultry. These exhibits provide an educational experience for families and children, offering insight into farming practices and the important role agriculture continues to play in Ventura County’s economy and culture.
Attendance and Regional Popularity
The county fair attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, making it one of the largest and most anticipated annual events in Ventura County. Families and visitors travel from communities throughout the region including Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Oak Park, Ojai, Moorpark, Simi Valley, Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Port Hueneme to attend the fair.
Because of its scenic oceanfront location and wide variety of attractions, the Ventura County Fair also draws visitors from neighboring counties such as Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. For many residents of the Central Coast and Southern California, attending the county fair has become a cherished summer tradition.
Things to Do Near the Ventura County Fairgrounds
Ventura Pier
The historic Ventura Pier is located just minutes from the fairgrounds and offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean along with fishing, dining, and scenic walks.
Ventura Harbor Village
Ventura Harbor Village features waterfront restaurants, boutique shops, kayaking, boat rentals, whale watching tours, and family-friendly attractions.
Channel Islands National Park
Ventura Harbor serves as a departure point for boat trips to Channel Islands National Park, one of California’s most unique natural destinations.
Parking and Transportation
The Ventura County Fairgrounds are conveniently located just off Highway 101 in Ventura, making them easily accessible from throughout Ventura County.
Visitors traveling from Camarillo, Oxnard, Thousand Oaks, Ojai, and Santa Barbara can reach the fairgrounds in a short drive.
Transportation options include:
- Onsite fairgrounds parking
- Nearby private parking lots
- Uber and Lyft ride share services
- Local transit buses
- Ventura Amtrak Station within walking distance
The Amtrak station provides convenient access for visitors traveling from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo.
Tips for Visiting the Ventura County Fair
Arrive Early
Weekends and evenings can be busy, so arriving earlier can help avoid crowds.
Buy Tickets Online
Purchasing tickets ahead of time may offer discounts and faster entry.
Dress for the Coast
Ventura evenings can become cool due to ocean breezes, so bringing a light jacket is recommended.
Explore the Entire Fairgrounds
From livestock barns and art exhibits to rides and concerts, there is something to discover throughout the fair.
Ventura County Fair FAQs
When is the Ventura County Fair 2026?
The Ventura County Fair 2026 takes place from July 29 through August 9, 2026.
Where is the Ventura County Fair held?
The fair is held at the Ventura County Fairgrounds in Ventura, California, located along the Pacific Ocean.
What attractions are at the county fair?
Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, concerts, livestock exhibits, food vendors, games, agricultural displays, and family entertainment.
Is parking available?
Yes. Parking is available at and near the Ventura County Fairgrounds, typically ranging from $5 to $15 depending on location.
Can I take public transportation to the fair?
Yes. The Ventura Amtrak Station is located within walking distance of the fairgrounds, and local bus routes serve the area.