The $5 Ticket Threshold

The San Diego County Fair's 2026 run is off to a great start, with a 'Once Upon a Fair' theme and affordable options for visitors. On opening day, all tickets are just $5 for those arriving before 5 p.m., making it an ideal time for families to visit. Children 5 and under are free every day, and on Fridays, children ages 6 to 12 get in free.

Adult tickets range from $14 to $25, with weekends at the higher end. Discounts are available for online purchases, and tickets at Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilion supermarkets offer savings up to $8.50 per person. A 20-day season pass at $65 is the best option for multiple visits.

Seniors over 62, active military, and veterans are eligible for additional discounts. Parking options include onsite fairgrounds parking for $25 (or $20 online), parking at the Del Mar Horsepark with free shuttle for $15, and free parking at Torrey Pines High School with free shuttle. Preferred parking near the O'Brien entry gate is $60 ($55 online).

A New Theme and Interactive Exhibit

The fair introduces a new theme, 'Once Upon a Fair,' which features a walk-through, interactive exhibit near the fairgrounds entrance celebrating children's books and characters. inside the exhibit hall, visitors can enjoy read-aloud storytime adventures with guest readers, musical storytimes, readings for toddlers, a magic show, a story-themed scavenger hunt, and KPBS Kids with Arthur story events.

The fair emphasizes affordability this year, with a focus on making it easy for families and individuals to create new memories and enjoy timeless traditions. With a range of ticket options and discounts available, there's something for everyone at the San Diego County Fair.

Transportation Options Abound

Rideshare users can catch Uber or Lyft to the fair, with a designated area marked with purple flags in the Blue Lot. The Fair Tripper pass offers combined bus, train, and shuttle transportation for $20-$23 on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and $23-$28 Fridays through Sundays. For Juneteenth on Friday, June 19, Fair Tripper passes are reduced to $17-$19.

On Wednesdays and Thursdays, unlimited ride wristbands for the Fun Zone and Kids Zone are available for $50 if purchased before June 10, and $55 afterward. The fair runs from June 10 through July 5, providing ample opportunity for families and individuals to create new memories and enjoy timeless traditions.

A Summer Tradition Revived

The San Diego County Fair returns to the Del Mar Fairgrounds on Wednesday for its 2026 run, marking the official start of summer for many residents of San Diego County and Tijuana. The fair is known for its annual traditions that make a visit special, such as enjoying fresh-roasted local corn sprinkled with Tajin seasoning,riding the rides and playing games in the Fun Zone, shopping for gadgets in O'Brien Hall, watching the Swifty Swine piglet races, or perusing woodworking and art exhibits.

Concerts on the Grandstand stage, Monster Trucks events, and giant cinnamon rolls are also highlights that fairgoers can enjoy again this year, along with many new experiences. With a focus on afforrdability and a range of ticket options, the San Diego County Fair is the perfect place to create new memories and enjoy timeless traditions.