National Monterey County Fair Day - Indulge in some quality family fun on National Monterey County Fair Day. Be prepared for a time of festivities, fun, and exhibitions — it is a great day to join fellow community members.

National Monterey County Fair Day 2024 – September 1, 2024

The National Monterey County Fair Day will be held from September 1 to 5 at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center, 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey. This venue has been home to many spectacular festivals. Monterey County Fair & Event Center is where you’ll find an array of live events, exhibits, and entertainment that appeal to all ages. They will keep you on the edge of your seat with colorful displays and memorable moments. We invite you to come together with your family and friends to create even more memories at the upcoming event.

History of National Monterey County Fair Day

We’re making memories together at the National Monterey County Fair and Event Center. Each of us has the power to improve people’s lives by helping them do what they’ve always wanted to do. Around every corner is a new, exciting adventure!The Monterey County Fair & Event Center was built in 1936, and since then, it has hosted many unique events, including the annual Monterey County Fair. With every event, you will find something that will capture your interest — from agriculture to technology and beyond! There’s something for the entire family.The Monterey International Pop Festival was held from June 16 to 18, 1967. It was a three-day music festival. The festival was organized by John Phillips of the Mamas & the Papas, record producer Lou Adler, Alan Pariser, and publicist Derek Taylor. Monterey and Big Sur had been known as the sites for the long-running Monterey Jazz Festival and Big Sur Folk Festival. The promoters saw the Monterey Pop festival as a way to validate rock music as an art form in which jazz and folk were regarded. They succeeded beyond all expectations. This day was founded by the Monterey County Fair in 2019, and it’s been held every year since then.

National Monterey County Fair Day timeline

1880
Hotel Del Monte Opens

The hotel grounds would later become the place where the Monterey fair is held annually.

1936
The Fair and Event Center is Built

The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is built and plays host to many amazing events.

June 16, 1967
The First Concert Event

The Monterey International Pop Festival holds a three-day music festival.

2019
National Monterey County Fair Day Established

This day was founded by the Monterey County Fair in 2019, and it has been held every year since then.

National Monterey County Fair Day FAQs

Are pets allowed at the Monterey Fairgrounds?

Children and pets are welcome here!

How much are the tickets for the Monterey Fair?

An adult ticket costs $10, while tickets for children aged six to 11 are priced at five dollars each. Children under five get in free.

Which cities make up Monterey County?

The coastal cities of Marina, Sand City, Seaside, and del Rey Oaks are north to south from Monterey to Carmel-by-the-Sea. The inland communities include Salinas, Gonzales, Soledad, and Greenfield.

National Monterey County Fair Day Activities

  1. Go to the fair

    The Monterey County Fair is fun to spend a day with friends and family. You will find many rides, food stands, games, and other attractions to keep everyone entertained.

  2. Play the fairground games

    There are many different kinds of games available at the fairgrounds. Some games include ring tosses, shooting galleries, carnival rides, and other fun activities that will appeal primarily to children but can also be enjoyed by adults

  3. Allow your kids to have fun

    If you are bringing children with you on this trip, make sure they wear clothes they can get dirty in. There are many fun activities like pony rides and petting zoos that kids will want to try out while they're there.

5 Intriguing Facts About Monterey County Fair And Event Center

  1. It has a large size

    The Center has over 100,000 sq ft of indoor exhibit space and over 40,000 sq ft of outdoor exhibit space.

  2. It has a permanent stage

    The Center has a permanent stage to seat up to 2,000 people for concerts and other events.

  3. One of the most popular venues

    The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is one of the most popular venues for trade shows, business conferences, weddings, and other special events in the Monterey Bay area.

  4. Originally for agricultural equipment

    It was initially built as an exhibition center for agricultural equipment and vehicles by the Monterey County Farm Bureau Federation.

  5. The design fits all

    The facility's design allows it to be used for various events and features an indoor arena and three tiers of seating around its perimeter along with an outdoor area.

Why We Love National Monterey County Fair Day

  1. We love the entertainment

    The fair features live music every day and magic shows, and other performances by local actors and dancers. Plus, there are various demonstrations by local businesses, such as how to make crafts using recycled materials.

  2. We love the food

    Some of our favorites include deep-fried Oreos, churros, and funnel cakes. We also love that there are plenty of healthy options like fresh fruit and veggie cups and veggie burgers and salads.

  3. We love the connection

    It's a good time for people to interact at the fair. Whether they are taking silly photos or getting into arguments with their friends over whose turn on a ride comes first.

National Monterey County Fair Day dates

Year Date Day
2023 September 1 Friday
2024 September 1 Sunday
2025 September 1 Monday
2026 September 1 Tuesday
2027 September 1 Wednesday
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