The Arizona State Fair is a cherished annual event offering fun, history, and culture at the vibrant Arizona State Fairgrounds. Since its start in the early 20th century, the fair has grown into a dynamic celebration of all things Arizona. The event displays everything from Arizona's agricultural heritage to a fantastic blend of rides, games, live entertainment, and mouthwatering local cuisine. Attendees can enjoy a nostalgic journey through classic exhibits while also experiencing a variety of innovative art and entertainment showcases that capture Arizona's creative energy. With deep roots in community celebration and a long-standing tradition of attracting both local residents and traveling visitors, the Arizona State Fair is not only a fun-filled destination but also an essential part of the state's culture.
The dates for the 2025 Arizona State Fair have yet to be announced.
Held every October, the Arizona State Fair is famous for its La Grande Wheel - the largest transportable Ferris wheel in the world. Soaring almost 132 feet into the air, you can get a bird’s-eye view of the fairgrounds and the surrounding area.
The fair has over 70 other rides visitors can choose from as well, from sedate ones like the carousel to competitive ones like the Euroslide (race your siblings or friends!) Classic spinning rides like the Cyclone and the aptly named Dizzy Dragon are sure to get your blood moving, and rides like the Wiggle Wurm are perfect for younger visitors.
Along with the midway rides and entertainment, there are plenty of competitions showing off the livestock and agriculture of Arizona and nearby states. There are youth livestock prizes for sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, poultry, pigeons, and more. Be sure to check out the evening entertainment as well. Concerts on fair days usually include big country music stars and rock bands.
There are plenty of amenities on-site at the fair. Choose from more than 100 food booths, with every kind of food imaginable. Guests can also bring in their own food or unopened bottled water, but glass containers and alcohol are prohibited. There is a lost and found center at the security office, and there are guest services and information booths around the fairgrounds to answer your questions and give directions. Additionally, conveniences like ample parking, clean restrooms, and free Wi-Fi help to ensure that your experience is comfortable and hassle-free.
Located at 1826 W. McDowell Road in Phoenix neat the intersection of I-10 and I-17, the Arizona State Fairgrounds sit in the heart of a bustling metropolis that blends urban energy with a touch of desert charm. The fairgrounds themselves are easily accessible in your RV via well-maintained roads, and the available parking makes arriving stress-free. Although the landscape is largely desert, occasional rain can make some areas a bit muddy, so it's wise to wear appropriate footwear if you plan to do a lot of walking around the fair. Overall, the fair’s central location in Phoenix provides a perfect backdrop for a lively, accessible, and memorable experience.
Although there will be music at the 2025 Arizona State Fair, the lineup has not yet been announced. In the past, the fair has hosted many popular artists, including Bob Dylan, Sheryl Crow, ZZ Top, and Meat Loaf. You can keep an eye on any updates regarding 2025 performers by visiting the Arizona State Fair website.
RVing is a great way to explore the fair! It allows you to spend all day enjoying the rides and looking at the exhibits and still be able to come back to the comforts of home. After your exciting day at the fair, you'll be able to enjoy your own food and bed at night. There are several quality RV campgrounds near the fairgrounds where you can stay while you visit.
The Covered Wagon RV Park has a swimming pool, showers, full hookups, and laundry facilities. It’s one of the oldest family-owned RV parks in the area and offers plenty of shade and grassy areas. It’s also pet-friendly.
Mesa/Apache Junction KOA is 30 minutes from Phoenix but offers panoramic views of the Superstition Mountains. The campground has Wi-Fi, a year-round pool, a hot tub, a dog park, and pull-thru sites.
During your RV trip to the fair, you may also want to take some time for nearby adventures in nature. For example, you could head east to the beautiful Tonto National Forest, where you'll find opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and many other recreational activities. Alternatively, you could travel to Lost Dutchman State Park, which boasts a large campground that features numerous sites with RV hookups.
If you're planning to spend a night or two near the fairgrounds, you'll be glad to know that there are plenty of other nearby lodging options to consider. For a comfortable stay, one option to consider is the Hampton Inn Phoenix Airport North, which offers modern amenities and is just a short drive from the fairgrounds. Alternatively, if you're looking for a charming and personalized experience, several local bed and breakfasts provide a cozy setting and a taste of Arizona’s unique hospitality. These peaceful little spots often include thoughtful touches like complimentary breakfasts and pet-friendly policies, making them a fantastic choice for families or couples looking to enhance their fair experience with a relaxing overnight retreat.
Getting to the Arizona State Fairgrounds is easy and convenient from several directions. If you're flying in, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is just a 15-20 minute drive away; from there, simply take I-10 West and follow signs for Phoenix until you reach McDowell Road. For those coming from out-of-state, I-17 and I-10 are the primary highways converging in the Phoenix area, and your local GPS navigation will guide you through to the fairgrounds. On busy festival weekends, be sure to allow extra time for traffic and consider using ride-share services or shuttles.
Parking at the Arizona State Fair is designed to be as convenient as possible. With several designated lots surrounding the fairgrounds, you’re likely to find a spot fairly easily, even during peak times. Be sure to arrive early to secure the best possible spot, and remember to follow the clearly marked signs and attendant instructions when getting in and out of the lots.
Single tickets for the Arizona State Fair are expected to be $15. Children under the age of 7 can enter the event for free!
The Arizona State Fair offers an exciting blend of tradition and modern celebration, complete with rich history, engaging amenities, and a convenient location. This fall, consider taking an RV trip to Phoenix to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, diverse food options, and live entertainment at the event. You'll also have access to various nearby lodging and camping choices. For the most current updates, ticket information, and event highlights, be sure to follow the fair's social media profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page .
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