You’re never too old for a good time; nothing proves that more than the Santa Barbara Fair & Expo. Whether you’re running to be first in line on carnival rides, indulging in a
powdered-sugar-coated funnel cake, or admiring baby goats in the livestock barn, the fair offers a little magic for everyone.
This year’s ’80s theme adds a splash of neon nostalgia, setting the stage for two weekends packed with music, magic, and community fun. The fair might be a throwback, but the memories are brand new.
The fair runs Thursday, April 24, through Sunday, April 27, and again Friday, May 2 through Sunday, May 4, at the Earl Warren Showgrounds, 3400 Calle Real.
Fair hours are Thursday and Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Carnival rides will remain open later, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays and 10 p.m. on Sundays. Guests must enter before admission closes to stay for extended carnival hours.
The fair is closed Monday, April 28 through Thursday, May 1, before opening up for its second weekend.
This year’s 1980s flashback theme anchors the Exhibit Building, where attendees can view photography, pottery, paintings, and projects from local artists and youth. Displays also feature local foods, homegrown horticulture, and fine art from the community.
Outdoors, families can visit the livestock section, which is home to goats, sheep, pigs, and steers.
Educational exhibits include live sheep shearing and milking demonstrations, which are popular with kids and curious adults alike.
With more than 30 rides and attractions, thrill seekers of all ages can get their adrenaline fix. For those who prefer entertainment on the ground, the community stage lineup includes live music, magic shows, illusions, and dance performances. A crowd favorite, the Alaskan pig races, also returns this year.
“It’s a place for everybody to indulge their inner child,” said Ben Sprague, CEO of Earl Warren Showgrounds.
Regular admission tickets cost $13.50 for adults and $8 for children. Tickets are free for children 5 and under.
Senior Days will be held on Saturday, April 26 and Saturday, May 3. Guests 65 and older will receive free admission from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
On-site unlimited ride wristbands are available for $33 on Thursday and $39 Friday through Sunday. This year, a limited fast pass option offers access to express ride lines.
Individual ride and game tickets are $1 each, with rides requiring four to seven tickets and games typically needing 10 or more per play.
Off-site parking is available at La Cumbre Junior High and Bishop Diego High School, with trolleys running every half hour beginning 30 minutes before the fair opens and continuing until 30 minutes after closing. On-site parking at Earl Warren Showgrounds is available for $20 per day.