Once Upon A Fair, in a land not-so-far-away, the story of your San Diego summer begins.
The San Diego County Fair is the greatest story our community has ever told. It’s a tale of food, fun, friends, family, laughter, tradition, music, amazement, and pure, unbridled joy. The Fair — the biggest and longest-running event in San Diego County — makes its triumphant return from Wednesday, June 10, through Sunday, July 5, 2026 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays).
This year, Once Upon A Fair invites our Fair fanatics to write a new chapter: one about the narratives that shaped us, the simple pleasures of good books, the power of storytelling, and all the magic found between the lines.
Our featured theme exhibit invites fairgoers of all ages to explore the world of books through playful photo ops, educational exhibits, and hands-on fun.
- Tell Your Story: Discover your inner author! Join workshops on writing, illustrating, and publishing your own fictional or biographical tale.
- Golden Books: Step into the treasured stories of your youth—from classic fairy tales to young adult adventures—and rediscover the magic that made you fall in love with reading.
- Color & Comics: Explore the bold, vibrant world of comics, graphic novels, and giant coloring books—because not all great stories are told in words.
- Library Love: Learn how libraries have shaped communities, past and present, and how you can unlock their hidden treasures.
- Book Fair: Browse our Book Fair for your next summer read. Mystery, Sci-Fi, Romance or Travel? There’s something for every bookworm to devour!
But there is much more to this story. Throughout the Fairgrounds you'll choose your own adventure:
- Hunger Games: Feast on fair-favorite foods — from classic corn dogs and candied apples to wildly imaginative (and deep-fried!) culinary creations.
- Goosebumps: Brave more than 70 thrilling rides in the Fun Zone and Kids Zone —twists, turns, and stomach-flipping surprises await!
- Lord of the Rings: Test your skills at our carnival games for a chance to win your own precious prize.
- Where the Wild Things Are: Meet barnyard buddies in the Petting Farm, learn about livestock animals raised for food and fiber, and catch edu-tainment shows starring furry, fluffy, and feathered (and often funny!) friends.
- Treasure Island: Explore a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, unique finds, and curious trinkets in our bustling shopping halls—your perfect souvenir might just be the next great plot twist in your day!
You won’t want to miss your chance to live out your “happily ever after” at the 2026 San Diego County Fair.
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