Riverside County California Fairgrounds Events
Riverside County Fairgrounds is located in Indio, California, in the Coachella Valley east of Palm Springs. The grounds are best known for hosting the Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival, a long-running annual celebration of desert agriculture, date farming, carnival attractions, livestock competitions, and community entertainment.
Unlike many California county fairs held during summer, the Riverside County fair takes place in winter, when the desert’s cooler weather makes outdoor events more comfortable. Its timing also reflects the Coachella Valley’s agricultural heritage, particularly the region’s date harvest.
The fairgrounds serve a purpose beyond the annual festival. They host community events, exhibitions, entertainment, and private functions throughout the year. Whether you are planning a family visit, entering a livestock project, applying for a vendor booth, or attending a special event, knowing the venue’s location and seasonal calendar will help you plan.
Overview of Riverside County Fairgrounds
Location and address
The Riverside County Fairgrounds are located at 46350 Arabia Street, Indio, CA 92201. County records also identify the property by its Highway 111 address, 82-503 Highway 111, Indio, CA 92201.
Indio is in the eastern Coachella Valley, southeast of Palm Springs and west of the Salton Sea. Interstate 10 is the principal regional highway, while Highway 111 provides access through the valley’s communities and toward the fairgrounds.
Property layout and facilities
Historical county documentation describes the fairgrounds as approximately 110 acres. The property includes exhibition buildings, livestock areas, carnival and midway space, an arena, entertainment areas, parking, and facilities for events outside fair season.
The exact current inventory of buildings, seating capacities, and available rental spaces should be confirmed with venue management. Different events use different sections of the property, and some facilities may be unavailable during setup or major public festivals.
Management and community significance
The Riverside County Fairgrounds are a county asset operated for fair and event purposes through an arrangement involving Pickering Events LLC. The Riverside County Fair Board remains part of the fair’s institutional structure, while the County of Riverside provides public oversight and community support.
The annual fair has particular significance in the Coachella Valley, where date production, agriculture, tourism, and local businesses intersect. Its livestock and youth exhibits also connect families to the region’s agricultural traditions.
Upcoming Events at Riverside County Fairgrounds
Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival 2027
The next festival is scheduled for February 11–28, 2027, with the published calendar indicating a Thursday-through-Sunday pattern plus Presidents’ Day. The organizers are accepting vendor applications for the 2027 edition.
Visitors should confirm individual operating days, gate hours, admission prices, and entertainment times before traveling. The overall festival date range does not necessarily mean every attraction operates every day.
Other events throughout the year
The grounds host a range of public and private events beyond Date Fest. Depending on the calendar, these may include:
- Home shows, consumer exhibitions, and trade events.
- Seasonal festivals and community celebrations.
- Livestock activities and agricultural displays.
- Concerts, arena entertainment, and touring productions.
- Commercial markets, specialty showcases, and private rentals.
The venue’s facilities have historically accommodated motorsports-style entertainment, rodeo performances, and animal attractions. Specific events such as gun shows, flea markets, swap meets, or demolition derbies should be treated as scheduled only when confirmed in the current calendar.
Finding upcoming events
The official fair and venue calendar is the best place to check upcoming Riverside County fair events, ticket announcements, rental information, and vendor opportunities. For general fair questions, the published contact number is 760-863-8247, and the event office can be reached at [email protected].
The venue also offers event rentals. Organizers planning a wedding, conference, trade show, fundraiser, or other private gathering should ask about available spaces, insurance, utilities, setup schedules, and any restrictions on food service or entertainment.
The County Fair: Agriculture, Dates, and Desert Entertainment
Date Festival traditions
The National Date Festival began as a local celebration of the Coachella Valley’s date harvest. Dates remain central to the event’s identity, from agricultural displays to specialty foods and the familiar date shake.
The 2026 festival celebrated its 78th year and introduced a National Date Festival Museum in the Sands of Time building. Other featured spaces included the Hall of Ribbons for fine arts, photography, and baked goods; the Cave of Wonders for gems and minerals; and the Palm Pavilion for dates and agricultural exhibits. These were features of the 2026 edition, and the 2027 layout may differ.
Livestock, youth exhibits, and competitions
Livestock displays connect the festival to Riverside County’s agricultural communities. The 2026 program included goats, sheep, pigs, cattle, and a petting farm, alongside arts, baking, photography, student entries, and educational exhibits.
The festival is also an opportunity for families to learn about animal care and agriculture. Specific livestock judging classes, animal check-in times, market classes, and youth auction arrangements should be confirmed in the current livestock handbook.
Carnival rides, food, and entertainment
The fair’s midway combines carnival rides with food concessions, live performances, and specialty attractions. In 2026, announced entertainment included monster trucks, a demolition derby, professional rodeo performances, racing pigs, motorcycle stunts, a dog show, and family-oriented stage acts. These are examples from the 2026 program, not a guaranteed list for 2027.
Food is part of the festival’s identity, especially date-based treats. Visitors can also expect fair-style snacks and meals from participating concessions, though the food lineup and operating hours vary.
Admission, tickets, and parking
Tickets for the 2027 festival were scheduled to go on sale November 27, 2026. The current ticket information should be checked for admission prices, discount days, age policies, carnival packages, and parking fees.
The 2027 event is scheduled across three blocks: February 11–15, February 18–21, and February 25–28. The published vendor schedule says the grounds will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and on Monday, February 22. Check the latest visitor schedule before making plans, as event-specific access may differ from vendor operating dates.
Facilities and Grounds
Exhibition buildings and arena
Riverside County Fairgrounds has several exhibition and event spaces, including the Fullenwider Auditorium, Sands of Time building, gem and mineral exhibition space, agricultural displays, livestock barns, and an arena used for major entertainment. Each space serves a different role, from commercial exhibitions and educational displays to animal activities and ticketed shows.
The number of usable buildings and the arena’s current seating capacity should be confirmed with management when planning a large event or group visit.
RV camping and parking
The grounds include RV parking areas. A county notice published in 2025 described planned water and electrical improvements for 42 RV parking stalls in a northwest parking area. That document describes a project scope, not a guarantee that all 42 stalls are currently ready for use. Campers should confirm hookup availability, booking procedures, and fees before arrival.
Parking arrangements depend on the event. During Date Fest, traffic controls, designated entrances, and paid parking areas may apply. Follow event signs and staff directions rather than assuming that all parking areas are open to visitors.
Accessibility and visitor amenities
Visitors who need accessible parking, routes, restrooms, or seating should confirm the arrangements for their chosen event. The extensive fairground layout can involve considerable walking, and desert temperatures can still be warm on sunny winter afternoons.
Ask the venue about first aid, water access, shaded rest areas, and the location of specific buildings before arrival. Do not assume that every amenity operates during every event.
Vendor and Exhibitor Information
Commercial vendor applications for 2027
Vendor applications for the 2027 Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival are open. The published application information states that vendors must apply each year, and returning vendors receive priority consideration. Paying the application fee does not guarantee acceptance.
The published 2027 booth rates are:
| Booth category | Listed base rate |
|---|---|
| Premium outdoor | $2,000 |
| Basic outdoor | $1,100 |
| Premium indoor | $1,500 |
| Basic indoor | $1,100 |
| Gem and mineral building | $1,000 |
The gem and mineral space is restricted to eligible vendors in that category. Corner spaces and extra depth incur additional charges. A non-refundable $50 application fee applies to each booth space requested. Full booth payment is due upon approval, and a location is not held until payment is received.
Vendors must provide general liability insurance of at least $1 million per occurrence naming Pickering Events LLC and Riverside County as additional insureds. Vendors selling products must also provide a valid California seller’s permit; employers must provide workers’ compensation documentation when required. Review the complete application for deadlines and administrative fees.
Visitors exploring Riverside County California Fairgrounds Events can also discover local celebrations through Plumas County California Fairgrounds Events. Exploring both counties helps families and travelers discover regional traditions, find seasonal activities, and enjoy community events throughout California.
Competitive exhibits and youth entries
People entering art, photography, baking, agriculture, or livestock projects should request the current premium book and division instructions. Each category can have different entry deadlines, identification requirements, judging standards, and drop-off arrangements.
The 2027 school field-trip program includes livestock barns, educational displays, arts, STEM activities, and the Date Festival Museum. Those visits are arranged in advance for participating schools and homeschool groups rather than being general public opening hours.
Getting to Riverside County Fairgrounds
Driving from nearby cities
- From Palm Springs: Follow Highway 111 southeast through the Coachella Valley toward Indio and the fairgrounds.
- From Palm Desert: Highway 111 provides a direct regional route east toward Indio.
- From La Quinta: Use local roads connecting to Highway 111 and follow event signs to the fairgrounds.
- From the greater Los Angeles area: Interstate 10 is the main eastbound route into the Coachella Valley; use the current navigation route for the final approach to Indio.
- From Blythe: Interstate 10 westbound provides a major route toward Indio.
The Highway 111 and Arabia Street area can become congested during major events. Allow extra time for parking and entry, particularly on weekends and during headline arena performances.
Public transportation and rideshare
Transit connections vary by departure point and date. Check current regional bus service before traveling, and do not assume a dedicated festival shuttle operates unless one is announced.
For rideshare, use the designated pickup and drop-off area provided by event management. Confirm the meeting point with your driver before leaving the grounds, when pedestrian and vehicle traffic may be heavy.
4-H, FFA, and the Junior Livestock Auction
Youth agricultural programs
The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival supports youth agriculture through livestock exhibits and educational displays. Local 4-H participants, FFA students, and other eligible exhibitors can use the fair to present animal projects and demonstrate what they have learned about agricultural production.
The Coachella Valley’s agricultural setting makes the festival a useful place for young visitors to learn about date cultivation, livestock care, and the relationship between farming and the local economy. The fair’s school field trips also provide access to educational exhibits before regular public hours.
Junior livestock auction
Livestock sales and youth projects are part of the fair’s agricultural tradition, but the current auction schedule and eligibility rules should be confirmed with the livestock department. Prospective buyers should ask about registration, bidding procedures, payment, and any approved add-on contributions.
The fair office can also direct youth exhibitors to current 4-H and FFA requirements. Do not assume that every livestock exhibit is eligible for auction or that the same sales procedure applies to all species.
Special Events Beyond the Annual Fair
Arena shows and touring entertainment
The arena hosts major attractions during Date Fest, including motorsports-style performances, rodeo events, and other ticketed entertainment. The 2026 program featured monster trucks, a demolition derby, and PRCA rodeo performances. Future dates and performers must be checked against the announced program.
Markets, exhibitions, and community events
Outside festival season, the grounds host exhibitions, consumer shows, community events, and private functions. Home shows and other commercial exhibitions can provide opportunities for local businesses to display products and meet customers.
Gun shows, flea markets, swap meets, and other specialized events should be verified individually. A current listing is the best way to confirm whether an event is taking place, its admission requirements, and whether children are permitted.
History of Riverside County Fairgrounds
From a local harvest celebration to a major festival
The festival’s roots date to 1921, when a local harvest celebration was held in Indio City Park. The event grew alongside the Coachella Valley’s date industry and eventually developed into the Riverside County Fair and Coachella Valley Date Festival.
In 1940, Riverside County purchased the original fairground property. After World War II, the festival developed its distinctive Arabian Nights theme, linking the event’s entertainment with the desert’s date-growing heritage. Over subsequent decades, the grounds expanded to accommodate larger exhibitions, livestock displays, carnival attractions, arena performances, and year-round bookings.
Cancellations and management changes
The festival did not operate during the 1942–1945 wartime interruption. It was also absent in 2021 and 2022 during the COVID-19 disruption, although a smaller carnival event was held in 2022. In June of that year, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved a partnership with Pickering Events LLC to support the return of the annual fair and the continued operation of the fairgrounds.
The 2026 edition celebrated the festival’s 78th year and introduced new displays, including the Date Festival Museum. The event continues to connect the region’s agricultural history with family entertainment, youth exhibits, and commercial activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Riverside County Fair in 2026–2027?
The 2026 Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival ran February 12–March 1, 2026. The 2027 festival is scheduled for February 11–28, with selected operating days from Thursday through Monday during Presidents’ Day weekend and Thursday through Sunday on the other scheduled weeks.
What time do Riverside County Fairgrounds open?
Opening times vary by date and event. The 2027 festival’s daily gate hours should be checked in the published visitor schedule before traveling to Indio.
Where are Riverside County Fairgrounds located?
The fairgrounds are at 46350 Arabia Street, Indio, CA 92201. County records also identify the property as 82-503 Highway 111, Indio.
How much does it cost to enter the Riverside County Fair?
Admission prices for the 2027 festival should be confirmed when tickets go on sale. The organizers have announced November 27, 2026, as the scheduled ticket-sale date. Carnival packages, discounts, and parking may have separate charges.
Is there camping at Riverside County Fairgrounds?
RV parking areas are present at the fairgrounds, but hookup availability and overnight camping arrangements depend on current operating conditions. Confirm reservations, utilities, fees, and access rules with the venue.
How do I enter livestock in the Riverside County Fair?
Request the current livestock handbook, complete the required entry forms, and follow the published animal identification, health, check-in, and eligibility rules. Contact the fair’s livestock department for deadlines and auction eligibility.
Are dogs allowed at Riverside County Fairgrounds?
Pet rules depend on the event and the applicable venue policy. Check the current admission rules before bringing a dog. Service animals are subject to applicable accessibility laws, and animal exhibition rules may differ from ordinary pet admission.
Where do I park at Riverside County Fairgrounds?
Follow the signs for designated fair parking and the directions issued by event staff. Parking fees and access arrangements can vary by event, and traffic around Highway 111 and Arabia Street may be heavy during festival hours.
Who do I contact to rent Riverside County Fairgrounds?
The fair’s published contact number is 760-863-8247. Ask about available buildings, arena space, private events, rental fees, insurance, and setup requirements.
How do I become a vendor at the 2027 Riverside County Fair?
Submit the current vendor application and pay the required $50 non-refundable application fee for each booth space requested. Published base booth rates range from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on the category, with additional charges for certain upgrades. Acceptance is not guaranteed.
Does Riverside County Fairgrounds host events throughout the year?
Yes. The venue hosts exhibitions, private events, community gatherings, and other activities outside the annual Date Festival. Check the current event calendar to confirm individual dates and admission arrangements.
One Comment