Alameda County Fair Starts Friday With Fireworks Show

PLEASANTON, CA — In less than a week, the Alameda County Fairgrounds will transform into a mini-city of rides, games, food, horse racing, competitions concerts, and so much more.

The iconic Alameda County Fair, one of California’s largest and oldest fairs, starts with a bang this Friday, when fireworks will illuminate the sky over the Stella Artois Grandstand. Friday also marks the start of the Big O Tires Concert Series, which will begin with a performance from Johnny Gill of New Edition.

Friday will also see the start of Live Horse Racing at the Grandstands, which will feature a special t-shirt giveaway. The following day, the first of many high stakes races will offer up to $75,000 in winnings.

The fair will also feature over 100 different food and beverage booths, offering everything from funnel and corn dogs to ceviche and gyros. For the first time, the most popular booths will win a Foodie’s Choice Award.

The fair is offering scores of rides and unique attractions, with everything from racing pigs to the new Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show, or the Raptor Show. See here for a full list of shows and competitions.

The carnival is open June 14 to July 7 on Wednesdays through Sundays from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., except July 4, when it’s open from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Parking closes at 3 p.m., and gates close at 4 p.m. Carnival rides are open from 1 p.m. to closing time, and each night except July 4, concerts take place from 8 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. See here for a full list of performers.

Drone shows take place each night at 9:30 p.m., except July 4, though on June 14 and 28, guests will enjoy a Fireworks & Drone Show Spectacular. Each night at 6 p.m., a different movie will show on the lawn. See here for a full list of movies.

See here for info about parking, pricing, season passes, and more.

The fair is also hosting a number of special promotional days, including the Latin-themed Fiesta Day on Sunday, and a free gift on Father’s Day for dads who arrive early enough. See here for a full list of promotions.

Visit alamedacountyfair.com for more information.