The 10 Must-See Attractions And Dates For The Stanislaus County Fair 2025 (Plus Modesto's Hidden Fairs)

Get ready for the biggest summer blowout in the Central Valley! The highly anticipated Stanislaus County Fair, the main event for the Modesto area, is set to return for its 114th edition, promising ten days of world-class entertainment, thrilling carnival rides, and the best deep-fried fair food the region has to offer. This year’s event is packed with fresh announcements, including a stellar concert lineup and special promotional days, making it the perfect family destination for 2025. Running from Friday, July 11, through Sunday, July 20, 2025, the fairgrounds in nearby Turlock will become the epicenter of Stanislaus County’s summer fun. We’ve compiled the ultimate guide to ensure you don't miss a single moment, from the biggest headliners to the best ticket deals, all based on the most current information available as of December 2025.

Stanislaus County Fair 2025: Key Dates, Location, and Ticket Information

While Modesto itself hosts a number of smaller festivals and resource fairs, the Stanislaus County Fair is the grand tradition that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the region. Here is the essential information you need to plan your trip and save money.

Fair Biography & Essential Details

• Official Name: Stanislaus County Fair (114th Annual Event)
• Location: Stanislaus County Fairgrounds, Turlock, CA (Just a short drive from Modesto)
• 2025 Dates: Friday, July 11, 2025 – Sunday, July 20, 2025 (10-Day Run)
• Fair Hours: Fairgrounds & Buildings open Monday–Friday at 4:00 p.m. and on Saturdays & Sundays at 12:00 p.m.
• Pre-Sale Tickets Start: Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10 a.m.
• Advanced Pricing Deadline: Expires on July 10, 2025, at 7 p.m.

Current Ticket Prices and Money-Saving Deals

Buying your tickets in advance is the single best way to save on admission to the Stanislaus County Fair. The pre-sale window offers significant savings before the advanced pricing deadline.

General Admission (Approximate Pricing)

• General Admission (Ages 13–64): Approx. $15 (Gate Price) vs. $12 (Advance Price)
• Child Admission (Ages 7–12): Approx. $7 (Gate Price) vs. $5 (Advance Price)
• Senior Admission (Ages 65+): Approx. $7 (Gate Price) vs. $5 (Advance Price)
• Children 6 and Under: Free Admission

The Best Promotional Days and Discounts

The fair is known for its incredible daily promotions, which often include free or discounted entry. Be sure to check the official schedule closer to July for the full list, but here are two confirmed deals:

• Free Sunday Entry: Admission is free until 3:00 p.m. on both Sundays (July 13 and July 20).
• Christmas in July (July 16): Visitors who donate a new, unwrapped toy to the Salvation Army on this day may receive a special discount or free admission.

The 2025 Free Concert Lineup: Country, Rock, and Latin Stars

One of the biggest draws of the Stanislaus County Fair is the nightly concert series, which is FREE with the price of fair admission. The 2025 lineup, presented on the Modelo Variety Free Stage, features a mix of legendary rock acts and chart-topping country and Latin artists.

The following headliners have been confirmed for the 2025 schedule:

• Friday, July 11: Drake Milligan (Country Music)
• Saturday, July 12: Ash Ruder
• Sunday, July 13: Los Nuevos Ilegales (Latin Music)
• Friday, July 19: LOCASH (Chart-topping Country Duo)
• TBD Date: Jefferson Starship (Legendary Rock Band)

The addition of legendary rock band Jefferson Starship and the high-energy country duo LOCASH ensures there is a major act for every taste. All concerts start in the early evening, so arrive early to secure a good spot!

Beyond the Stage: 5 Must-Experience Fair Attractions and Exhibits

The fair is more than just concerts and rides; it is a celebration of Stanislaus County’s rich agricultural heritage and community spirit. From the demolition derby to the livestock barns, these are the attractions that define the fair experience.

1. The Thrills of the Carnival Midway

No fair is complete without the adrenaline rush of the rides. The Stanislaus County Fair features two distinct areas: the main Carnival Midway for heart-pounding rides and games, and the Kids' Carnival area, which is perfect for younger children and families. Look for pre-sale wristband deals to maximize your ride time.

2. The High-Octane Arena Series

The nightly Arena Series is where the action is, featuring motorsports and high-energy competitions that require a separate ticket purchase. Confirmed events for the 2025 fair include the roaring Tractor Pull and the crowd-favorite Destruction Derby II. These events typically start at 6:30 p.m.

3. The Junior Livestock Auction and Exhibits

The agricultural heart of the fair is found in the livestock barns. Visitors can see the hard work of local 4-H and FFA students who raise and show their animals. The Junior Livestock Auction is a major event, supporting the next generation of farmers and ranchers in the Modesto and Turlock area. This is a crucial part of the fair's mission to promote agriculture.

4. Competitive Exhibits and Local Talent

Take a break from the heat and explore the exhibit halls. These buildings showcase the incredible talent of Stanislaus County residents, from award-winning homemade pies and jams to photography, fine art, and elaborate crafts. This is an excellent opportunity to appreciate local culture and artistry.

5. The Food: Deep-Fried Delights and Fair Classics

The food selection is an attraction in itself. While the fair is known for its iconic, over-the-top deep-fried creations (deep-fried Oreos, anyone?), you can also find classic fair staples like corn dogs, funnel cakes, tri-tip sandwiches, and fresh-squeezed lemonade. Exploring the vast array of vendors is a culinary adventure.

Other Notable Modesto Area Fairs and Festivals in 2025

While the Stanislaus County Fair is the main draw, the city of Modesto itself hosts a variety of smaller, community-focused fairs throughout the year that cater to specific interests. These events are great for finding unique artisan goods and connecting with local resources.

• Modesto RecFest 2025: This event celebrates riverside recreation along the banks of the Tuolumne River Regional Park, promoting outdoor activities and environmental awareness.
• Annual Fall Craft Fair: Typically held in September (e.g., Saturday, September 20), these craft fairs are the perfect place to find handmade goods, seasonal decorations, and cozy treats from local artisans.
• Kids Play Fair: An exciting, outdoor event specifically for families and children, such as the one planned for Saturday, October 18, 2025, near The Awesome Spot Playground.
• Back to School Health & Resource Fair: Focused on community support, this event provides health screenings and resources for families, often held in August (e.g., August 16, 2025).

The 2025 fair season for the Modesto area is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory. By planning ahead, taking advantage of the pre-sale ticket deals starting in April, and marking your calendar for the free concerts, you can ensure you experience all the thrills, tastes, and traditions the Stanislaus County Fair has to offer. Don't forget to check the official fair website frequently for the full lineup of entertainers and daily schedules as they are announced!

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