The California State Fair is returning to Sacramento this summer, running July 17 through Aug. 2 as originally scheduled.
This will be the final fair before the event shifts to a fall schedule in 2027, when it will take place from Sept. 17 through Oct. 3.
The fair board decided on the date change after years of analysis and planning, aiming to improve the guest experience, reduce the impact of extreme summer heat, and provide better operating conditions for vendors and partners.
Admission pricing for the 2026 fair has been confirmed:
Advanced Child (ages 5–12): $10
Advanced Senior (ages 62+): $12
Children 4 and under: Free
Discounted tickets are available at participating Save Mart locations. For details on ticket packages and additional options, visit here.
Tom Martinez, CEO of the California Exposition and State Fair, said in a previous statement to ABC10, “With rising summer temperatures, shifting to the fall season allows us to create a more pleasant environment while maintaining the traditions Californians love.”
He added that vendors and community partners have been supportive of the change.
The 2026 fair will feature rides, exhibits, live entertainment, and the traditional fair foods, giving Californians one last mid-summer State Fair experience before the event moves to its new fall schedule.