The Santa Barbara County Fair drew big crowds Friday with visitors flocking to the Santa Maria Fairpark to enjoy carnival rides, games, food, and livestock shows from local youth agriculture programs.
The fair continues through Sunday, offering two more days of entertainment and fun for all ages.
Fairgoers filled the fairgrounds Friday afternoon, lining up for food and games as children darted between attractions. Groups of kids waited for thrill rides such as the Joker and Super Shot, teasing one another about who was brave enough to go.
Six-year-old Kyle Jessup had just hopped off the Super Shot tower-drop ride, laughed and pointed to a height sign, saying he was finally tall enough.
“I was too little last time,” he said. “Now I’m big.”
Nearby, carnival games attracted steady lines, with players aiming for oversized stuffed animals or, for some, a new addition to the family.
Natalie Ramirez, clutching a small plastic terrarium with a tiny goldfish swimming inside, smiled as she showed off her prize.
“This is Frank,” she said. “He will live with me.”
For parents, the fair offers a chance to enjoy the atmosphere, grab some indulgent food and share the experience with their children.
Eric Ko, visiting from San Jose, said he had not been to the fair since childhood but smiled as he held a large, still-sizzling kebab.
“This is just as much fun for me as it is for the kids,” he said. “I get to eat all the food that I avoid.”
More Fun Ahead
The fair is also a showcase for local agriculture, with 4-H and FFA students preparing animals for competition and auction. Livestock shows continue through the weekend.
Concerts are scheduled at the Minetti Arena, along with other performances throughout the day at the venue’s Central Stage.
Saturday’s concert headliner at the Minetti Arena will be country artist Russell Dickerson with Ariel Jean opening, followed by the La Septima Banda on Sunday to close out the fair.
The La Placita Stage will feature Kleindance Studio, Heart and Soul Line Dance, Abigail Fierce and the Molly Ringwald Project on Saturday. On Sunday, performances will include Los Rayos de Guadalupe, Destined Dance and Powerhouse Percussive Dance.
The Minetti Arena gates open at 5:30 p.m., with shows starting at 6:30 p.m. Separate tickets must be purchased for the concerts along with paid fair admission.
Admission Details
Fair gates are open from noon to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Admission is $17 for ages 12 to 61, $15 for seniors age 62 or older and youths ages 6 to 11, and free for children age 5 or younger. A season pass is available for $55.
Saturday is Military and Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, offering free admission for military and law enforcement members with valid identification.
To buy a ticket for a specific concert or fair admission, click here.
Helm & Sons Amusements is providing the carnival rides that include options for people of all ages along with games. Carnival tickets can be purchased here.