The Ultimate 2025 Fresno Gun Show Schedule: 3 Must-Attend Events, Dates, And California Law Compliance
The Fresno Gun Show scene in 2025 is set to be one of the most active in recent memory, with no less than three separate major events confirmed across the calendar year, offering Central Valley enthusiasts multiple opportunities to buy, sell, and trade. As of today, December 23, 2025, organizers have locked in dates for shows in both the spring and fall, hosted by different promoters at two distinct venues. This detailed guide breaks down the full schedule, admission details, and the absolutely critical California state laws you must comply with to ensure a smooth and legal experience at any of these *Fresno County* events.
Whether you are a seasoned collector of *antique firearms*, a first-time buyer looking for a modern *handgun* or *rifle*, or simply searching for *ammunition* and *outdoor gear*, the 2025 calendar provides ample choice. However, attending a *gun show in California* requires a thorough understanding of the state’s stringent regulations, including mandatory *federal background checks* and the *10-day waiting period* for all *firearm transactions*. We have compiled the most up-to-date information on the confirmed 2025 dates, venues, and the essential legal framework.
Complete 2025 Fresno Gun Show Calendar and Venue Details
Unlike many cities that host a single annual event, Fresno's gun show schedule is diversified, featuring multiple promoters utilizing local community spaces. This gives attendees a chance to experience different vendors and atmospheres throughout the year. The three most prominent and confirmed events for 2025 are detailed below, providing a clear roadmap for your planning.
Event 1: Spring Show by GunTV at Elks Lodge #439
- Dates: Friday, April 4, 2025, through Sunday, April 6, 2025.
- Venue: Fresno Elks Lodge #439, located at 5351 N Diana St, Fresno, CA 93710.
- Promoter: GunTV.
- Focus: GunTV events are known for featuring a wide array of products, including modern *firearms*, *optics*, *reloading supplies*, and a variety of *tactical gear*.
Event 2: Fall Show by Great Gun Shows at C.P.D.E.S. Portuguese Hall
- Dates: Saturday, September 20, 2025, through Sunday, September 21, 2025.
- Venue: C.P.D.E.S. Portuguese Hall of Fresno.
- Promoter: Great Gun Shows.
- Note: This two-day weekend show offers a slightly different setting from the Elks Lodge, providing a unique local flavor and a chance to see different regional *vendors* and *exhibitors*.
Event 3: Late Fall Show by AZ Gun Radio at Elks Lodge #439
- Dates: Friday, September 26, 2025, through Sunday, September 28, 2025.
- Venue: Fresno Elks Lodge #439.
- Promoter: AZ Gun Radio (also associated with GunTV).
- Hours: Friday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
- Admission: $15.00 per person. Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge.
- Typical Inventory: Shows promoted by AZ Gun Radio often showcase a blend of *antique firearms*, *modern firearms*, *Old West* memorabilia, and a strong selection of *ammunition* and *knives*.
Understanding California’s Mandatory Gun Show Compliance
Attending a *gun show in California* is not the same as attending one in a less-regulated state. The *California Gun Show Security Act* imposes strict legal requirements that every attendee, buyer, and vendor must follow. Failure to comply with these *local and federal firearm laws* can result in serious legal consequences. It is essential to treat these events as regulated marketplaces, not casual swap meets.
The Universal Background Check: Every single sale or transfer of a *firearm* at a California gun show, regardless of whether the seller is a licensed dealer or a private individual, must go through a licensed *Federal Firearm Licensee (FFL)*. This FFL is responsible for conducting the mandatory *federal background check* (DROS) on the buyer. There is no exception for *private party transfers* at a gun show.
The 10-Day Waiting Period: Once the purchase is initiated and the background check is submitted, California law mandates a *10-day waiting period* before the buyer can take possession of the *firearm*. This means you cannot walk out of the *Fresno Gun Show* with a newly purchased gun on the same day. You will have to return to the FFL's place of business after the waiting period to complete the transaction.
Age Restrictions: In California, you must be at least 21 years old to purchase a *handgun* or a *semi-automatic centerfire rifle*. You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a *shotgun* or a non-semi-automatic *rifle*. This applies to all sales, including those at the *Fresno Elks Lodge* or the *Portuguese Hall* events.
Critical Safety and Entry Rules for Attendees
To ensure a safe environment and comply with the *Gun Show Security Act*, all attendees must adhere to specific rules upon entry. These rules are non-negotiable and are strictly enforced by the promoters and venue security.
1. No Loaded Firearms Inside: You are strictly prohibited from bringing a loaded *firearm* into the show. If you wish to bring your own firearm for a sale, trade, or appraisal, it must be unloaded and secured in a case or container. Security personnel will inspect all personal firearms at the entrance and secure them with a plastic tie (zip-tie) to prevent them from being loaded while inside the venue. This is a key component of the *California Gun Show Security Act*.
2. Ammunition and Firearms Separation: California law explicitly prohibits any person at a *gun show* from possessing at the same time both a *firearm* and the *ammunition* designed to be fired in that firearm. This regulation is unique to California and is rigorously checked at the entry points of the *Elks Lodge* and other venues.
3. Ammunition and Accessories: While *firearm* sales are highly regulated, visitors can freely purchase *ammunition*, *knives*, *reloading equipment*, *holsters*, *safes*, and other *shooting accessories* from vendors without the same background check requirements, though all *ammunition sales* must comply with California's separate *ammunition vendor* laws.
4. CCW Permits: Even if you possess a valid *Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW)* permit, you must still comply with the "no loaded firearms" and "firearm and ammunition separation" rules when entering the *Fresno Gun Show*. Your CCW status does not exempt you from the mandatory *Gun Show Security Act* regulations.
Maximizing Your Visit to the 2025 Fresno Gun Shows
With three distinct events in 2025, planning your visit strategically can enhance your experience. Consider which event aligns best with your interests. The shows at the *Elks Lodge* are typically large and well-established, drawing a wide range of *vendors* from across the state. The *Great Gun Shows* event at the *Portuguese Hall* might offer a more community-focused selection of *local dealers* and unique *militaria* items.
To make the most of your $15 admission, it is advisable to arrive early, especially on Saturday, to beat the crowds and get the first look at limited-stock items like *bulk ammunition* or specific *collector firearms*. Remember to bring a valid California ID, as this is required for all *firearm transactions* and is often checked by vendors even for simple inquiries. By understanding the schedule, the hosts (GunTV, AZ Gun Radio, Great Gun Shows), and the strict *California gun laws*, you can ensure your 2025 *Fresno Gun Show* experience is both enjoyable and fully compliant.
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