National Monterey County Fair Day is observed annually on September 1 to celebrate the historic Monterey County Fair, held at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center in California. This state-owned 22-acre venue hosts rides, livestock exhibits, food vendors, contests, and live music, attracting families and visitors of all ages. The day honors local culture, agriculture, and entertainment through a variety of fairground activities. First established in 2019, the day coincides with the opening of the fair and reflects a long tradition dating back to 1936 and even earlier fair activity in the Salinas Valley.
In this article, I will share the date, history, fair attractions, how to celebrate, key facts, FAQs, and more about National Monterey County Fair Day.
When is National Monterey County Fair Day 2025
National Monterey County Fair Day 2025 will take place on Monday, September 1. The day is observed annually on the first day of the Monterey County Fair, which usually begins around the start of September. The event is held at the Monterey County Fair and Event Center in California.
The date may vary slightly depending on the fair’s annual schedule, but since 2019, September 1 has commonly marked the beginning of celebrations. Attendees can expect a full day of entertainment, food, and activities that showcase local culture, agriculture, and community pride.
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What is the History of National Monterey County Fair Day?
National Monterey County Fair Day was officially founded in 2019 by the organizers of the Monterey County Fair to highlight the cultural importance of the fair in California. The fair itself, however, has a much longer history. The Monterey County Fair and Event Center was built in 1936 and has hosted a variety of major events since then, including the Monterey Jazz Festival and the 1967 Monterey International Pop Festival.
Earlier versions of the county fair date back to the late 1800s, when it was focused mainly on agriculture. Over time, it expanded to include music, food, exhibits, and community showcases.
Where is National Monterey County Fair Day Celebrated?
National Monterey County Fair Day is celebrated at the Monterey County Fair and Event Center, located at 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey, California. The venue covers 22 acres and includes seven indoor halls, outdoor lawns, barns, a permanent stage, an RV park, and the Monterey Bay Race Place for off-track betting.
The fairgrounds serve as the central hub for all activities during the fair, including rides, games, food vendors, and live shows. Its location in the heart of Monterey County makes it accessible to both local residents and visitors from nearby cities.
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What are the Main Attractions at the Monterey County Fair?
The Monterey County Fair offers a variety of attractions that appeal to all age groups. Guests can enjoy classic carnival rides, including a Ferris wheel and roller coasters, along with agricultural exhibits, craft shows, and educational displays. Livestock exhibitions highlight the region’s farming heritage, while art and technology booths showcase local talent and innovation.
The fair also features contests, games, cooking demonstrations, and cultural performances. Visitors can explore themed displays tied to the year’s fair theme, take part in interactive exhibits, or relax in shaded garden areas with family and friends.
What Events and Activities are Available for Kids?
The Monterey County Fair offers several activities designed especially for children. These include a petting zoo with farm animals, pony rides, and hands-on exhibits that teach kids about agriculture and nature. There are also carnival rides suited for younger age groups, such as mini carousels and gentle swings.
Face painting stations, arts and crafts booths, and interactive games provide more entertainment for kids throughout the day. Many family-focused events at the fair allow parents and children to enjoy the experience together in a safe and welcoming environment.
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What Kind of Food is Served at the Monterey County Fair?
The food at the Monterey County Fair ranges from traditional fair snacks to local specialties. Visitors can enjoy favorites such as funnel cakes, deep-fried Oreos, corn dogs, churros, and cotton candy. The fair also features regional dishes like barbecue ribs, fresh seafood paella, and locally grown produce served in salads and fruit cups.
Food vendors often use ingredients sourced from nearby farms and markets. Whether looking for a full meal or a quick snack, guests can find a wide variety of food options suited to every taste.
What Special Contests and Events Take Place at the Fair?
The Monterey County Fair hosts several contests and special events that offer fun for all ages. Popular competitions include pie-eating contests, cowboy hat contests, art showcases, and home-baked goods judging. Guests can participate in or observe friendly competitions such as vegetable growing displays, animal showmanship, and craft contests.
In the community pavilion, local schools and organizations often host themed exhibitions. Throughout the day, guests may also find pop-up games and audience participation events. These contests add excitement and variety to the fair experience and celebrate the talents of local residents.
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How to Celebrate National Monterey County Fair Day?
To celebrate National Monterey County Fair Day, plan a visit to the fairgrounds on September 1 and enjoy the full range of scheduled activities. Attend with family or friends to experience rides, food, music, and exhibitions.
You can also share your experience online using photos or stories that highlight your favorite fair moments. Support local vendors by purchasing food or crafts, and participate in a contest or game. For those unable to attend in person, sharing fair history or engaging with Monterey-based organizations is another way to observe the day meaningfully.
National Monterey County Fair Day activities
There are many activities to enjoy on National Monterey County Fair Day. You can:
- Attend the fair’s opening ceremony or live shows
- Ride the Ferris wheel or other carnival attractions
- Visit livestock barns and view animal exhibits
- Sample food from various local vendors
- Play fairground games like ring toss or shooting galleries
- Participate in family-friendly competitions
- Explore indoor and outdoor exhibitions
These activities provide entertainment while supporting local agriculture, arts, and traditions in Monterey County.
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5 Interesting Facts about Monterey County Fair and Event Center
- The fairgrounds were built in 1936 and cover over 22 acres.
- The venue includes more than 100,000 square feet of indoor space and 40,000 square feet of outdoor exhibit space.
- The site hosted the Monterey International Pop Festival in 1967, one of the first major rock festivals in the United States.
- It has a permanent stage that seats up to 2,000 guests.
- The facility originally served as an exhibition space for agricultural equipment and vehicles.
These facts reflect the center’s deep roots in regional history and community life.
Why is National Monterey County Fair Day important?
National Monterey County Fair Day highlights the cultural, agricultural, and social importance of the county fair. It brings people together to celebrate local traditions and strengthens the sense of community.
The fair supports small businesses, local farms, artists, and performers. It also serves as an educational platform for children and adults to learn about agriculture, sustainability, and creative arts. By observing this day, communities honor a long-standing tradition that represents both history and progress in Monterey County.
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Dates of National Monterey County Fair Day (2025–2030)
Here is a table showing the dates and days of the week for National Monterey County Fair Day from 2025 to 2030:
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2025 | September 1 | Monday |
| 2026 | September 1 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September 1 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | September 1 | Friday |
| 2029 | September 1 | Saturday |
| 2030 | September 1 | Sunday |
Each year, the day aligns with the opening or one of the early days of the Monterey County Fair.
FAQs about National Monterey County Fair Day
What is the location of the fairgrounds?
The Monterey County Fair and Event Center is located at 2004 Fairground Road, Monterey, California.
Are pets allowed at the fair?
Pets are generally not allowed unless they are service animals. However, some outdoor areas may have pet-friendly rules during specific events.
How much do tickets cost?
Adult tickets are around ten dollars. Children between six and eleven pay about five dollars. Kids under five usually enter for free. Pricing may vary year to year.
Is parking available at the fair?
Yes, on-site parking is available. Additional overflow parking may be offered during busy days.
Which cities are part of Monterey County?
Cities include Monterey, Marina, Seaside, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Salinas, Soledad, Greenfield, and Gonzales.
Conclusion
National Monterey County Fair Day stands as a meaningful celebration of Monterey’s culture, history, and community. It honors the traditions of the county fair, which has brought people together through entertainment, agriculture, and education for generations. Held on September 1 each year, this day invites residents and visitors to take part in activities that reflect the spirit of the region.
From local food and carnival games to livestock shows and live performances, the fair offers something for everyone. By participating in this annual event, people help preserve local heritage and support future generations of fairgoers. National Monterey County Fair Day continues to serve as a proud symbol of community connection and shared experience.
