The Monterey County Fair returns this week with free concerts, exciting rides, and new food offerings, giving families and visitors of all ages plenty to look forward to under the Surfin’ Safari theme.
The fair kicks off Thursday at noon and runs through Labor Day, bringing action-packed days and evenings to the grounds. Free concerts are a staple every day at 7:30 p.m., with standout acts highlighted as the biggest attractions: Steel Pulse, the Grammy-winning reggae group that previously performed at Cali Roots, takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, and a Selena tribute concert is scheduled for Sunday at the same time, both included with admission. General admission for the rodeo is free with fair admission on Friday and Saturday, and box seats are still available for those seeking a closer view.
Festival-goers can expect a classic fair experience alongside new flavors. Classic fair foods will be joined by fresh offerings, including a Dubai strawberry booth featuring chocolate-covered strawberries and Dubai cinnamon rolls. New vendors will also be serving up chicken- and cheese-focused dishes to diversify the menu. The carnival will showcase crowd-pleasers such as The Zipper, Wheel, Grand Prix rollercoaster, Vertigo swings, and Medusa, along with livestock displays, a full kids’ carnival, pony rides, face painting, trinket shopping, and even psychic readings.
Animal lovers will enjoy displays from pigs, goats, sheep, ducks, turkeys, chickens, and geese, with races and other activities accompanying the livestock showcases. The fair gates will be open Thursday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., and on Monday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission prices are $16 for adults ages 13–61, $13 for seniors 62 and older, and $9 for children 6–12. Children under 5 get in free, and all kids 12 and under receive free admission on Labor Day. Thursday offers free admission for seniors and veterans, while active military personnel can enter free on Friday with ID. Additional details on schedules and events are available from the fair organizers.
What to expect and what it means: The Monterey County Fair promises a family-friendly escape with a blend of entertainment, thrill rides, and diverse food options, while also supporting local vendors and community traditions. It’s a positive, wholesome celebration designed to bring the community together for a week-long countdown to Labor Day.
Summary: A lively, family-focused fair returns with nightly free concerts, a mix of classic and new food vendors, an updated lineup of rides, extensive animal displays, and special admission offers, aiming to deliver a fun-filled community experience through Labor Day.
Commentary: If you’re planning to go, arrive early to secure seats for the free concerts and popular rides, and consider bringing sun protection for daytime hours. The theme and lineup emphasize a nostalgic, coastal fair vibe with modern twists, making it inviting for both longtime attendees and first-timers.