The Los Angeles County Fair opens Friday, May 2, with an art-focused theme and fun galore, from carnival rides to zany foods, and musical performances to agricultural exploits.
With so many options, a trip to the fairgrounds at Fairplex in Pomona can be overwhelming.
If your group needs help deciding what to visit first at the Los Angeles County Fair, check out this curated guide that offers a little something for everyone.
For the adventurer
Are you a fan of the great outdoors? Then head over to The Hill, where the U.S. Forestry Service presents demonstrations, shows and workshops. Guests can meet wild burros or come face to face with a few scaly residents and learn how to spot the differences in reptiles.
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For the wine enthusiast
Did you know the fair has wine and spirit tastings? Now you do! Celebrating their 90th and 123rd years, respectively, the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition and the Los Angeles International Wine Competition put the spotlight on award-winning spirits, wines and olive oils, all available for guests to sample. Choose to sample by the glass or a tasting flight if you’re looking for variety. Classes and pairing workshops are also available. New this year, the fair is offering a paint-and-sip class. Spirit and wine tastings are located in The Marketplace in The Hill district for guests 21 and over.
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For the crafty
If you’re interested in all things DIY and craft-related, check out Expo Hall Five located in the Downtown District. The entries were formerly located in the Grandstand Hall but have been moved due to renovations. Here, get in touch with your inner Martha Stewart and find inspiration for your home with tablescape competitions and award-winning culinary masterpieces such as cakes and pies. Guests can also participate in live cooking demonstrations in the Kitchen with Chef Leslie Sassaman and others.
For the artist
This year’s fair theme is “Art Unleashed,” highlighting all things artistic in different mediums. Don’t miss exhibits and art on display at the Millard Sheets Art Center, located in the Downtown District. This year, you can also try your hand at pottery throwing for an additional fee and check out the community art project — a crocheted awning to shade fairgoers.
For the animal lover
They’re cute, cuddly, and you can pet most of them! The farm animals found at the Big Red Barn are always a delightful main attraction every fair season. Get hands-on with baby barnyard residents and learn about the types of care-taking required to produce an award-winning animal.
For the foodie
Who can resist fair food? This year some of the new items include jerk lobster mac & cheese, Dubai chocolate covered strawberries, fruity pebble Korean corn dogs and pickle lemonade.
About the LA County Fair
Where: Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona
When: Friday, May 2, through Monday, May 26
Hours: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on opening day. After that, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, plus Memorial Day, May 26.
Cost: $18.50 to $27.50 for adults; $15.50 for children ages 6 to 12 and seniors 60 and older. Parking starts at $22.50. Parking, admission, and concert box office payments are cashless. Advance online purchases cost less than gate prices.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to correct the location of the DIY and craft events.
