The 104th edition promises rides, concerts, and culinary delights from May 7 to May 31
Category: Arts & Culture
POMONA, Calif. — The Los Angeles County Fair, one of the largest and longest-running fairs in the United States, officially opens its gates on May 7, 2026, at the Fairplex in Pomona, promising 25 days of world-class entertainment, adrenaline-pumping rides, mouthwatering food, livestock exhibits, and family-friendly attractions through May 31. This year's edition celebrates the fair's rich 100-plus-year history, introducing fresh experiences aimed at appealing to new generations of visitors.
Organizers expect more than 1.5 million guests over the run, making it a major economic and cultural event for Southern California. The fair kicks off with a star-studded opening weekend featuring live concerts, carnival rides, agricultural displays, and an expanded food court that highlights both classic fair favorites and innovative culinary creations. Gates open at 5 p.m. on May 7, with full operations beginning the next morning.
Music will play a central role in this year's fair. Headliners include chart-topping artists across multiple genres, with major performances scheduled on the main stage throughout the month. Country star Luke Bryan is set to headline opening weekend, alongside Latin music powerhouse Grupo Frontera and pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo, among other confirmed acts. Daily concerts, comedy shows, and cultural performances will run across multiple stages, with free entertainment zones featuring local bands and dance performances for those who prefer not to purchase concert tickets.
The LA County Fair has a storied past, dating back to 1913. It has grown into a beloved tradition for millions of Southern Californians. The event has survived world wars, economic depressions, and the COVID-19 pandemic through adaptation and community support. This year's edition carries extra significance as the fair continues recovering from pandemic-era challenges, embracing modern entertainment trends.
Fair officials have invested heavily in infrastructure improvements, including enhanced accessibility features and sustainable waste management programs. The event generates hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity for the region, supporting local vendors, hotels, restaurants, and transportation services, providing jobs for thousands of seasonal workers.
True to its roots as an agricultural fair, the event features extensive livestock shows, flower and garden displays, and hands-on learning opportunities. Visitors can watch live milking demonstrations, sheep shearing, and horse competitions. The farm animal area allows children to interact safely with pigs, goats, chickens, and rabbits. Educational exhibits highlight sustainability, water conservation, and modern farming techniques.
The fair features more than 70 rides, including returning favorites like the Giant Wheel, the Zipper, and the iconic Sky Ride. New additions this year include a high-speed coaster and immersive virtual reality experiences. The thrill zone has been expanded with several extreme rides for older teens and adults. Families with younger children can enjoy gentler attractions in dedicated kiddie areas, including a petting zoo, pony rides, and classic carnival games. Safety remains a top priority, with all rides inspected daily by certified technicians and operators.
No visit to the LA County Fair is complete without indulging in its famous food offerings. This year's lineup features both beloved classics and bold new creations. Deep-fried Oreos, bacon-wrapped turkey legs, funnel cakes, and fresh lemonade remain staples, but visitors can also discover fusion dishes such as Korean corn dogs, birria tacos, pickle pizza, and dessert nachos. A new "Foodie Avenue" section showcases gourmet food trucks and chef demonstrations, significantly increasing vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to accommodate diverse dietary needs.
Tickets for the fair start at $12 for opening day, making it the cheapest day to experience the fair all season. Adults pay between $18 and $25 on regular days, with children and seniors receiving discounted rates at $15 each. Children under 5 enter free daily. The fair operates daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., giving visitors plenty of time to explore the attractions. Purchasing tickets online saves money compared to gate prices, and parking is cashless at the fairgrounds, with advance online spots starting at $22.50.
As anticipation builds, early ticket buyers express excitement about the 2026 lineup. "I've been coming since I was a kid," said longtime attendee Maria Gonzalez of Pomona. "The new rides and food options look amazing, and I can't wait to bring my grandchildren." First-time visitors are drawn by the combination of big-name concerts and the traditional fair atmosphere.
With opening day just around the corner, the LA County Fair stands ready to deliver another memorable season of fun, food, and tradition. Whether visitors come for the concerts, the rides, the exhibits, or simply the nostalgia, this year's fair promises something special for every generation. As Walter Marquez, President and CEO of Fairplex, puts it, "Play is universal. We’ll welcome guests back to experience joy, connection, and creativity in ways only the Fair can deliver." The fair's opening day on May 7 will set the stage for an exciting month ahead.