Contra Costa County California Fairgrounds Events
The Contra Costa County Fairgrounds in Antioch, California, serves as a gathering place for East Bay families, livestock exhibitors, local businesses, and community event organizers. Known officially as the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds and Contra Costa Event Park, the property hosts the annual county fair alongside flea markets, motorsports, exhibitions, and private gatherings throughout the year.
The grounds are at 1201 West 10th Street, Antioch, CA 94509, near Highway 4 and the Antioch waterfront. For residents of Antioch, Pittsburg, Brentwood, Oakley, Concord, and other Contra Costa County communities, the venue offers a convenient place to experience agricultural traditions and local entertainment without traveling far from home.
The annual fair combines carnival attractions, live entertainment, youth livestock competitions, and exhibits created by local artists and makers. Outside fair week, the event park remains active with public events and facilities available for private rentals.
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Overview of Contra Costa County Fairgrounds
Location and organization
The fairgrounds are located at 1201 West 10th Street, Antioch, California 94509. Visitors generally approach from Highway 4, the principal freeway connecting Antioch with other East Bay communities. The grounds are also a short distance from the Antioch Marina and nearby restaurants, shopping, and lodging.
The facility is operated by the 23rd District Agricultural Association, a state-established agricultural fair organization. It is not simply a county-owned park or a venue managed by the University of California Cooperative Extension. The fair association oversees the fair, facility operations, public programming, and rental opportunities.
The organization describes its fair tradition as extending back approximately a century. Its agricultural roots remain visible in livestock exhibitions, youth development programs, and competitions that give local residents opportunities to display their work.
Why the grounds matter locally
Contra Costa County includes suburban cities, industrial communities, and agricultural areas around the eastern part of the county. The fairgrounds bring these different communities together through activities that range from livestock judging to concerts, carnival rides, and community markets.
For young exhibitors, the fair can be a place to demonstrate animal care, recordkeeping, and presentation skills. For families, it offers an annual opportunity to experience traditional fair attractions. For small businesses, the venue provides opportunities to reach local customers through booths, food concessions, and special events.
Upcoming Events at Contra Costa County Fairgrounds
The grounds host events throughout the year, so visitors do not need to wait for the annual fair to find something happening in Antioch.
Current and upcoming events
As of October 20, 2026, the published event calendar identifies several activities for the remainder of October:
- Antioch Flea Market: A recurring Saturday market advertised for 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Big Bounce America: Scheduled public event dates include October 24 and 25, 2026.
- Contra Costa County Fall Festival: Announced for fall 2026, with detailed hours and pricing still to be confirmed.
- Bounty of the County: A local food, farms, and community event announced for fall 2026, with the final schedule to be confirmed.
- Antioch Speedway: Dirt-track racing is among the venue’s recurring motorsports activities; check the individual race calendar before traveling.
Event dates, ticket availability, and operating hours can change. Confirm the specific date before setting out, particularly for seasonal festivals and racing.
Year-round event opportunities
The venue’s programming includes flea markets, auto racing, livestock activities, public exhibitions, and special family events. Its indoor and outdoor spaces are also available for selected private functions, including weddings, quinceañeras, banquets, corporate gatherings, and community celebrations.
The grounds should not be confused with a venue that hosts every type of fairground event. A gun show, rodeo, tractor pull, or motocross competition should be treated as unconfirmed unless it appears on the current schedule.
Visitors exploring Contra Costa County California Fairgrounds Events can also discover local celebrations through Colusa County California Fairgrounds Events. Exploring both counties provides opportunities to learn about community traditions, discover seasonal gatherings, and enjoy activities that highlight local culture.
The Contra Costa County Fair
When is the fair held?
The 2026 Contra Costa County Fair ran May 14–17, 2026. The fair’s organizers have announced that the next fair returns in May 2027, but exact dates should be confirmed when the official schedule is released.
The four-day event is the grounds’ principal annual celebration. In 2026, the theme was “Wild About the 2026 Fair,” with carnival attractions, live performances, livestock exhibitions, and special animal-themed entertainment.
Livestock, exhibits, and youth competitions
Livestock exhibitions remain central to the fair’s agricultural purpose. The program supports young participants involved in 4-H, Future Farmers of America (FFA), and Grange activities.
Depending on the year and the approved show schedule, visitors can expect livestock classes, champion selections, and youth projects. The livestock program is the place to confirm which species and classes are offered in a particular season.
The still-exhibits program gives artists, makers, and hobbyists another way to participate. The 2026 fair featured paintings, drawings, pottery, quilts, blankets, crafts, and photography. Competitive categories and judging rules vary, so prospective exhibitors should consult the current handbook rather than assume every category is offered annually.
Carnival rides, food, and entertainment
The fair partners with Midway of Fun for carnival rides and games. The 2026 midway included attractions such as a Ferris wheel, the Zipper, a Haunted Mansion ride, games, and family-friendly animal activities. The precise ride lineup and wristband prices for 2027 have not been confirmed.
Fair food typically includes familiar midway favorites such as funnel cakes and other concession treats. The 2026 program also included a funnel-cake eating contest, pig races, live music, a pageant, and flat-track motorcycle racing.
One major attraction was the return of the Bulls & Broncs Rodeo after more than 20 years. The 2026 rodeo sold out, according to the fair’s recap. Its return demonstrated the audience for Western-style entertainment in the Antioch area, although future performances should be verified against the new program.
Admission and parking
Do not rely on older ticket prices for the 2027 fair. Published 2025 prices included $14 adult general admission, $9 for children ages 6–12 and seniors, and free admission for children five and under. Those figures are historical, not confirmed 2027 prices.
Parking, advance tickets, special admission days, and carnival wristbands may be priced separately. Review the current admission policy before visiting.
Facilities and Grounds
The Contra Costa Event Park occupies approximately 80 acres, according to an organizational description of the facility. It includes indoor exhibition space, outdoor event areas, livestock facilities, a grandstand, parking, and permanent uses that keep the property active outside fair week.
Exhibition buildings and arenas
The facility description identifies three major event buildings with more than 24,000 square feet of combined indoor space. These spaces support exhibitions, gatherings, and indoor events. The grandstand has a stated capacity of approximately 3,000 seats and serves motorsports and other scheduled arena-style entertainment.
Livestock facilities support youth agricultural programs and fair competitions. Exhibitors should obtain the current livestock handbook for species-specific requirements, arrival times, health documentation, stall assignments, and unloading instructions.
RV camping, parking, and accessibility
The fairgrounds advertises an RV park with 16 full-hookup spaces, providing electrical, water, and sewer connections. The published rate is $40 per day, payable in advance, with spaces offered on a first-come, first-served basis and no reservations accepted under the stated policy. Confirm the current rate and whether spaces are available for your intended dates.
The property has approximately 1,500 parking spaces in its facility description. Actual parking arrangements may change during large events, so follow event-specific signs and staff instructions.
For accessibility, visitors who need accessible parking, restrooms, or step-free routes should confirm which facilities are open and available for their particular event. Do not assume every temporary attraction or outdoor surface offers the same accessibility.
Vendor and Exhibitor Information
Applying for a vendor booth
The fair offers commercial vendor spaces and concession opportunities for businesses, food operators, craftspeople, and other sellers. Applications for the 2027 fair have been promoted, although some categories may close before others.
Applicants should prepare a description of their products or menu, business contact information, space requirements, and any required permits or insurance documents. Food vendors should verify applicable food-safety and health requirements before committing to the event.
Entering exhibits and livestock
The exhibitor program accepts applications for still exhibits and livestock. The official exhibitor information identifies November 2, 2026, as the deadline for independent exhibitor applications for 2027. This is a specific deadline for that category, not a universal deadline for every entry.
Livestock exhibitors should use the current livestock handbook and state rules. Requirements can differ by species, class, age, and youth organization. Read the handbook carefully before preparing an animal for competition.
Contacting the fair office
The published administrative office hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., with a lunch break from noon to 1 p.m. The office is listed as closed Friday through Sunday. Call ahead if you need help with an application, facility booking, livestock entry, or event access.
Getting to Contra Costa County Fairgrounds
Driving directions
The fairgrounds are in Antioch, in eastern Contra Costa County. Highway 4 is the main regional approach for drivers coming from Concord, Pittsburg, Brentwood, and Oakley.
- From Antioch: Follow local streets toward West 10th Street and the fairgrounds entrance.
- From Pittsburg and Concord: Take Highway 4 east toward Antioch, then follow local directions to West 10th Street.
- From Brentwood and Oakley: Travel toward Antioch using the Highway 4 corridor and local connecting roads.
The fairgrounds occupy the stretch of West 10th Street between Somersville Road and L Street. Allow extra time during major events because nearby roads and parking areas can become congested.
Public transportation and rideshare
Tri Delta Transit provides bus service in eastern Contra Costa County. Routes serving nearby streets have included Routes 370 and 371, with stops around L Street and West 18th Street or nearby intersections during fair operations. Check current timetables and the event’s transportation arrangements before choosing a route.
Rideshare passengers should agree on a safe pickup location with their driver and follow any event-specific traffic directions. Do not assume a dedicated rideshare lane or shuttle is available for every event.
4-H and FFA at the Fairgrounds
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Youth agriculture and livestock showing
The fair’s livestock program supports young people through 4-H, FFA, and Grange activities. Participants develop practical skills in animal care, feeding, recordkeeping, showmanship, and responsible project management.
The specific number of participating clubs and school chapters varies, and a current countywide total should not be assumed without confirmation. Youths interested in joining should contact a local 4-H program, school FFA adviser, or the fair’s livestock program.
How the junior livestock auction works
At the junior livestock auction, eligible youth exhibitors present qualifying market animals to prospective buyers. Buyers may include local businesses, agricultural supporters, families, and community members. Auction procedures, sale order, buyer registration, and payment arrangements are explained in the annual buyer handbook.
The 2026 auction raised a reported $838,715, a record for the event. That figure reflects the auction’s reported results, not a guaranteed amount for future years.
Anyone interested in bidding should review the current buyer information and registration requirements before arriving. Individuals who cannot purchase an animal may still be able to support youth exhibitors through approved sponsorship or other fair programs.
Special Events Beyond the Annual Fair
The Contra Costa fairgrounds has several established uses outside the main fair season.
- Antioch Flea Market: A recurring market advertised for Saturdays, with operating hours subject to change.
- Antioch Speedway: Dirt-track auto racing provides a motorsports attraction during scheduled race events.
- Bounty of the County: A returning fall event focused on local food, farms, and community participation.
- Contra Costa County Fall Festival: A seasonal event announced for fall 2026, with final details to be confirmed.
- Private celebrations: Indoor event buildings are available for selected banquets, weddings, quinceañeras, and business gatherings.
The venue also supports school visits, exhibitions, and community programming. Other activities—including gun shows, tractor pulls, and additional rodeos—should be considered unconfirmed unless specifically listed on the event calendar.
History of Contra Costa County Fairgrounds
The fair’s history goes back much further than the current Antioch event park. According to the fair organization, local agricultural and community leaders established the Contra Costa County Agricultural, Historical & Mechanical Society in January 1859. The first county fair followed on October 11, 1859.
In 1937, the 23rd District Agricultural Association assumed responsibility for continuing the fair tradition. The organization remains responsible for the present fairgrounds and its agricultural education mission.
Over time, the property developed into a multipurpose event facility with indoor exhibition buildings, a grandstand, outdoor event areas, an RV park, a flea market, and a dirt-track speedway. This expansion allowed the grounds to serve residents throughout the year rather than only during the annual fair.
The modern fair continues to combine agricultural exhibitions with contemporary attractions. The return of the Bulls & Broncs Rodeo in 2026, following a gap of more than 20 years, was a notable recent development. The available history does not establish a complete list of cancellations or record attendance years, so specific claims about those milestones should be verified before publication.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Contra Costa County Fair in 2027?
The Contra Costa County Fair returns in May 2027. Exact dates have not yet been confirmed in the published information available for this article.
What time does Contra Costa County Fairgrounds open?
Opening hours depend on the event. The administrative office is listed as open Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., with a noon-to-1 p.m. lunch break. Public event hours are announced separately.
Is there camping at Contra Costa County Fairgrounds?
Yes. The grounds advertise an RV park with 16 full-hookup spaces. The published rate is $40 per day, with spaces offered first-come, first-served and no reservations accepted under the stated policy. Confirm current availability and rates before traveling.
How do I enter livestock in the Contra Costa County Fair?
Review the current livestock exhibitor handbook and application requirements. Entries must meet the applicable deadlines, eligibility rules, and animal health requirements. Youth participants commonly take part through 4-H, FFA, and Grange programs.
Are dogs allowed at Contra Costa County Fairgrounds?
The fair’s published visitor guidance says pets are not allowed at the annual fair, except certified service animals. Rules for other events may differ, so confirm the policy for the specific activity you plan to attend.
Where do I park at Contra Costa County Fairgrounds?
Visitor parking is provided at the grounds, with event-specific arrangements depending on attendance and layout. Follow signs and staff instructions. Parking fees may apply during the county fair and other ticketed events.
Who do I contact to rent Contra Costa County Fairgrounds?
Contact the fairgrounds administration about event buildings, outdoor spaces, RV facilities, and private-event bookings. Provide your preferred date, expected attendance, event type, and facility needs so staff can check availability.
How much does it cost to get into the Contra Costa County Fair?
Admission prices for the 2027 fair have not been confirmed. The 2025 published general-admission prices were $14 for adults, $9 for children ages 6–12 and seniors, and free for children five and under. These are historical prices and should not be treated as current rates.
What events take place at Contra Costa County Fairgrounds outside fair week?
Recurring activities include the Antioch Flea Market and scheduled Antioch Speedway races. The grounds also host seasonal festivals, special public events, exhibitions, and private functions. Dates and admission requirements vary.
Can I sell products at the Contra Costa County Fair?
Yes. The fair offers commercial vendor and concession opportunities. Applicants should review the relevant application, provide business details, and confirm space availability, fees, permits, and deadlines.
Is public transportation available to the fairgrounds?
Tri Delta Transit serves the Antioch area, and nearby bus stops have been used for fair access. Routes and service arrangements can change, so check the current schedule before traveling.
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