For more than 100 years, Americans have taken to recreational vehicles to have some, or even all, of the comforts of home on the road with them. RV enthusiasts visit the California State Fair in droves every year, enjoying the events, exhibitions, and other attractions both at the fair itself and nearby. The first California State Fair took place in 1854 and was envisioned as "an exhibition that would astonish the world." The first five fairs took place in different cities in California but settled permanently in Sacramento in 1859. Aside from the years during and shortly after World War II, the fair has taken place every year. Cal Expo is the current home of the California State Fair and plays host to hundreds of other signature events each year. Featuring 350 beautifully landscaped acres, Cal Expo was initiated by Governor Pat Brown and opened by Governor Ronald Reagan in 1968. The current Cal Expo facilities were dedicated as a place to celebrate California’s achievements, agriculture, diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that will shape the Golden State’s future.
What would the fair be without the food? Whether you’re craving something sweet, salty, crunchy, fried, or even a healthy alternative, fairgoers can grab their favorite grub in a variety of locations. Celebrate the fried food fair tradition this year at the California State Fair!
There are other events that take place at the fair. As of January 22, 2025, the website still lists last year's events, but the newest slate of events will be up soon. Of course, there are the rides, which can thrill and chill you with exciting loops, speedy roller coasters, and fun children's rides, too.
During your stay, take advantage of a special event, festival, trade show, or party at or near the California State Fair. Examples include Sacramento’s Independence Day Celebration, harness racing, Cal Expo’s Sports and Satellite Wagering Center at the Miller Lite Racetrack Grandstand, Raging Waters Sacramento, and the September 11 Memorial Plaza.
You can use lockers at the California State Fair, which are located at the main gate, blue gate, and green gate. Should you need a mobility device, then you can rent them near the main gate, next to the monorail. There are also five designated smoking areas. Check the website because these could change in 2025. There are full restrooms at a dozen locations spread throughout the venue. Check the FAQs for more information.
The address is 1600 Exposition Boulevard, Sacramento, CA, 95815. The site covers 350 acres and is located in downtown Sacramento.
The acts performing at the California State Fair aren't set yet. Stay tuned for the 2025 lineup.
The RV Park is centrally located in Sacramento close to shopping, restaurants, and access to the American River Bike Trail and Parkway. This year-round facility is perfect for weekend trips or a stopover between destinations.
The RV Park has full hookups, a laundry room, showers, full restrooms, and even a brand-new dog park. These campsites will fill up quickly, so be sure to reserve your spot as far in advance as possible. Sacramento is hot during the summer, so it'd be a good idea to bring loose, airy clothing, dark sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and the strongest sunblock you can find to protect yourself from the heat.
The two closest national parks to the California State Fairgrounds are Yosemite National Park and Pinnacles National Park, both of which are less than 200 miles away.
One option that's only about 3 miles from Cal Expo is the Residence Inn Sacramento/Cal Expo. It's got suites that include full kitchens, shopping services, and other homey amenities, and it's a terrific place to stay if you can't find a spot at the Cal Expo RV Park.
If you prefer an independent hotel rather than a chain, then the Governors Inn Sacramento fits that bill. It's near Cal Expo as well. Free breakfast is included, and the hotel offers fine amenities like a fitness center, pool, and hot tub.
From San Francisco: Take Route 80 northeast out of the city and follow it all the way to Sacramento. Take the exit to Exposition Boulevard, which will lead you right to the fairgrounds.
From Reno, NV: Follow Route 80 west, which will take you to the Exposition Boulevard exit in Sacramento. Expedition Boulevard takes you to the event location.
There are 15,000 parking spaces in the various lots around the fairgrounds. Accessible parking is near each of the gates.
Tickets aren't available yet. The website doesn't list a date for when they go on sale, so keep an eye on the applicable webpage for further information.
The festivities begin this coming July, so prepare early, and bring the whole family to this wondrous event. RVshare's tips for a successful RV trip make for great reading. When the fair is over, why not cruise the coast to catch sight of some majestic gray whales?
Check out @CaliforniaStateFair on Facebook for event updates!
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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