The California Mid-State Fair returns to Paso Robles this July with an exciting new theme: “Off To The Races!” The 12-day event brings thrilling carnival rides, live entertainment, competitive exhibits, and mouth-watering food to the Paso Robles Event Center from July 16-27, 2025.
Get ready for an unforgettable summer experience as country music star Cody Johnson performs at the Chumash Grandstand Arena on July 19. The fair's racing theme will inspire creative exhibits and decorative displays throughout the grounds, adding an extra layer of excitement to this beloved Central California tradition.
You'll find endless entertainment options for the whole family, from agricultural showcases to shopping opportunities with local vendors. The racing theme sets the stage for speed, fun, and excitement at one of California's most anticipated summer events.
California Mid State Fair 2025 Announces Star-Studded Summer Entertainment Lineup
History of the California Mid State Fair
The California Mid-State Fair began in 1946 under its original name, the San Luis Obispo County Fair. The event aimed to showcase the region's agricultural heritage and bring the community together.
Before its current name, the fair went through several iterations. It was first known as the 16th District Fair, then became the San Luis Obispo County Fair until 1980. From 1981 to 1985, it operated as the San Luis Obispo County Mid-State Fair.
The fair's roots stretch back even further, with origins in the late 1800s as the Upper Salinas Valley Fair. Throughout its evolution, the event has maintained its focus on celebrating local agriculture and community traditions.
Today, you can experience this historic fair at the Paso Robles Event Center, where it has grown into one of California's premier agricultural showcases. The fair spans 12 days each July and features entertainment, exhibits, and competitions that honor its agricultural heritage.
The fairgrounds have hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment, transforming from a simple county fair into a major regional event that draws visitors from across California.
Dates and Location
The 2025 California Mid-State Fair takes place July 16-27 at the Paso Robles Event Center, offering 12 days of entertainment, exhibits, and activities.
Calendar of Events
The fair opens its gates daily from morning until late evening. Major entertainment kicks off on July 19 with Cody Johnson performing in the Chumash Grandstand Arena. Pitbull will also take the stage during the fair's run.
Mark your calendar for wine, spirits, and olive oil competitions starting in February. Local businesses can begin submitting their entries early to participate.
Concert times typically start at 7:30 PM for evening shows.
Paso Robles Event Center Information
You'll find the fairgrounds at the Paso Robles Event Center, located in the heart of California's Central Coast wine country.
The venue features the Chumash Grandstand Arena for major concerts and events.
Free parking is available on-site for fair attendees.
The Event Center provides wheelchair accessibility throughout the grounds and offers numerous amenities including food venues, restrooms, and shaded rest areas.
Competitions and Exhibits
The California Mid-State Fair 2025 features diverse competitive events for participants of all ages and interests. Competition handbooks will be available in March 2025, giving you ample time to prepare your entries.
Livestock Competition
Youth exhibitors can showcase their animal husbandry skills through various livestock categories. You'll find competitions for market steers, sheep, goats, and swine.
Each animal must meet specific weight requirements and health standards before entering the fairgrounds. Your livestock will be evaluated on factors like muscling, structural correctness, and market readiness.
Experienced judges assess both the animals and your showmanship abilities. Prepare to demonstrate proper handling techniques and knowledge of your animal's care requirements.
Horse Show Events
The equestrian program features multiple disciplines and skill levels. Your horse can compete in Western pleasure, English riding, and trail class events.
Entry requirements include current vaccination records and health certificates. Make sure to review class specifications carefully before registering.
Show attire must meet competition standards for your chosen discipline. Practice arena time slots will be available before your scheduled events.
Creative Arts and Crafts
Still exhibits welcome your handcrafted items across numerous categories. Popular divisions include quilting, photography, baking, and fine arts.
Youth and adult categories are judged separately. Your entries must be original work completed within the past year.
Each division has specific size limitations and presentation requirements. Consider the theme “Off To The Races” when planning your creative submissions.
Olive Oil Competitions
Local businesses can enter their finest olive oils starting in February 2025. Your entries will be evaluated by certified taste specialists.
Categories include extra virgin olive oil, flavored oils, and specialty blends. Each submission requires detailed production information and harvest dates.
Blind tasting ensures fair judging of your product's aroma, flavor, and quality characteristics. Winners receive recognition that can boost market visibility.
Entertainment and Performances
The 2025 California Mid-State Fair brings major musical talent to Paso Robles with performances scheduled in the Chumash Grandstand Arena from July 16-27.
Concerts Lineup
Multi-platinum country star Cody Johnson headlines on Saturday, July 19, with Randall King opening the show at 7:30 PM.
Global superstar Pitbull takes the stage during the fair's run, bringing his high-energy performance to fairgoers.
You can expect more concert announcements throughout spring 2025. The fair traditionally features a mix of country, pop, and rock performers across its 12-day schedule.
Grandstand Arena Shows
The Chumash Grandstand Arena serves as the main entertainment venue for the fair's biggest performances.
You'll find comfortable seating with good sightlines to the stage. The venue is part of the 40-acre Paso Robles Event Center complex.
Concert tickets typically include fair admission when purchased for grandstand shows. Specific seating arrangements and ticket prices will be announced with each new concert reveal.
The arena hosts nightly entertainment throughout the fair's duration, mixing musical performances with other special events.
Food and Beverage Offerings
The California Mid-State Fair offers an extensive selection of food and drink options that celebrate local flavors and culinary traditions.
You'll find numerous food vendors serving everything from classic fair favorites to unique Central Coast specialties. Local restaurants and food artisans set up temporary locations throughout the fairgrounds to provide fresh, high-quality meals.
The beverage selection features award-winning Central Coast wines from Paso Robles and surrounding regions. You can sample various vintages while learning about the area's renowned wine-making heritage.
Beer gardens offer craft brews from local breweries alongside national brands. You'll also find specialty cocktails and spirits at designated beverage stations across the fairgrounds.
Many vendors provide grab-and-go options perfect for enjoying while watching performances or exploring exhibits. Food prices vary by vendor, and most accept both cash and credit cards.
Consider purchasing your food and drinks during off-peak hours to avoid long lines. Popular meal times typically see the highest traffic at vendor stands.
Fair Activities
The 2025 California Mid-State Fair offers diverse entertainment options spread across its 40-acre grounds. Visitors can experience thrilling rides, browse unique vendors, and participate in educational agricultural demonstrations.
Carnival Rides
The carnival midway features both classic and modern amusement rides suitable for all ages. Your adrenaline fix awaits on high-speed thrill rides that spin, drop, and soar through the air.
Family-friendly options include a classic Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the fairgrounds and gentle carousel rides perfect for young children.
You can purchase individual ride tickets or opt for unlimited ride wristbands for maximum value during your visit.
Shopping and Merchandise
You'll find numerous vendor booths showcasing local artisans, craftspeople, and merchants throughout the fairgrounds.
Browse handcrafted jewelry, home décor, western wear, and unique gifts you won't find anywhere else.
Local food producers offer specialty items like honey, preserves, and craft foods to take home.
Agricultural Education
Interactive demonstrations teach you about livestock care, crop production, and modern farming techniques. You can visit working exhibits showing the journey from farm to table.
Watch live agricultural demonstrations where experts share insights on topics like sheep shearing, beekeeping, and sustainable farming practices.
Your children can get hands-on experience at the petting zoo and learn about various farm animals through guided educational programs.
Special Events and Features
The 2025 California Mid-State Fair transforms into a racing-themed celebration with unique daily activities and special events designed to bring the excitement of the racetrack to Paso Robles.
Opening Ceremony
The fair kicks off with a grand racing-themed parade featuring decorated floats, vintage cars, and equestrian performers. You'll witness the official unveiling of “Off To The Races!” as performers and fair staff don racing attire and derby hats.
Local dignitaries and fair officials will lead the ceremonial first lap around the fairgrounds, marking the start of the festivities. Fair CEO Colleen Bojorquez will present the season's highlights and special attractions.
Theme Days
Each day features unique racing-inspired activities and events throughout the fairgrounds. You can participate in virtual racing simulators and meet-and-greet sessions with professional racing personalities.
The decorations throughout the grounds reflect different aspects of racing culture:
- Checkered flags and racing stripes
- Classic car displays
- Interactive pit stop demonstrations
- Racing memorabilia exhibits
Derby Hat Day
Put on your most elaborate headwear for this special celebration of racing fashion and tradition. A panel of judges will award prizes in multiple categories:
- Most Creative Design
- Best Racing Theme
- Classic Derby Style
- Youth Division
You can participate in hat-making workshops led by local milliners and fashion experts. Professional photographers will be available to capture your derby hat moments at themed photo stations around the fairgrounds.
Exhibitor and Vendor Information
The California Mid-State Fair 2025 offers multiple opportunities for commercial exhibitors and vendors to showcase their products and services during the 12-day event.
Applications and Handbooks
Commercial vendor applications for the 2025 fair must be submitted by February 28, 2025. Priority consideration is given to early applicants.
Vendors receive a designated space with basic electrical setup (one 110-volt power connection) included in the flat fee structure.
Payment processing fees apply: 2% for Mastercard/Visa and 4% for American Express when making vendor payments to the fair.
Vendor Guides
Your booth must remain open throughout the entire fair duration from July 11-27, 2025. The fair provides dedicated spaces in Buildings A and B mezzanines for commercial exhibits.
You'll need to review the exhibitor layout plans to select your preferred location. Space assignments are based on application timing and product category.
The fair management provides comprehensive setup guidelines and operational requirements in the vendor handbook, which you'll receive upon application approval.
Visitor Information
The California Mid-State Fair welcomes guests from July 16-27, 2025, at the Paso Robles Event Center. Planning your visit requires attention to three key elements: purchasing tickets, finding accommodations, and arranging transportation.
Tickets and Pricing
General admission tickets grant access to most fair attractions, exhibits, and free entertainment. Children under 6 enter free with a paying adult.
Purchase tickets online to skip lines and secure the best prices. Print tickets at home or display them on your mobile device for entry.
Concert tickets for headliners like Pitbull and Cody Johnson require separate purchases beyond general admission. Book early as premium seats sell out quickly.
Season passes offer the best value if you plan to attend multiple days. These passes include unlimited fair entry throughout the 12-day event.
Accommodations and Lodging
Paso Robles offers numerous lodging options within minutes of the fairgrounds. Book your stay early as hotels fill quickly during fair dates.
Popular choices include downtown boutique hotels, which put you walking distance from restaurants and wine tasting rooms.
RV camping is available at the fairgrounds for extended stays. Reserve your spot in advance through the fair's official website.
Budget-friendly motels line Highway 101, offering convenient access to both the fairgrounds and major roads.
Transportation and Parking
On-site parking lots provide ample space for daily visitors. Arrive early for the best spots closest to entrance gates.
Free shuttle service runs between designated parking areas and the main entrance during peak hours.
Consider ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles, especially during evening concerts and weekend events.
Bicycle racks are available near each entrance for those choosing eco-friendly transportation options.
ADA accessible parking spaces are located near all entrance gates. Display your valid placard or license plate for access.
Safety and Accessibility
The California Mid-State Fair Box Office provides dedicated assistance for guests with disabilities. You can purchase ADA seating by calling 1-800-909-FAIR or visiting their location at 2198 Riverside Avenue, Paso Robles.
Your safety remains a top priority at the fair. Medical stations are strategically placed throughout the grounds, with trained staff ready to assist in case of emergencies.
You'll find accessible parking spaces near main entrances. Wheelchair rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the guest services booth.
Service animals are welcome at the fair. They must remain on a leash or harness at all times and stay under their handler's control.
Rest areas and cooling stations are positioned throughout the fairgrounds. These provide comfortable spaces where you can take breaks during your visit.
Key Accessibility Features:
- Wheelchair-accessible restrooms
- Wide pathways between exhibits
- Designated ADA seating at entertainment venues
- Assisted listening devices for shows
- Accessible food service counters
Security personnel monitor the grounds continuously. You'll notice clearly marked emergency exits and information kiosks where you can seek assistance or report concerns.
Stacy Molter is the author of California Unpublished, a blog celebrating the California lifestyle. Whether you are looking for the best family travel locations or a new delicious recipe, California Unpublished has what you need to make life amazing! We are a family of travel enthusiasts sharing the best California has to offer as we set out to live life to the fullest!
So pull up a chair, grab a refreshing drink, and join us on our amazing adventures.