How to Save Money at the 2026 California State Fair: Every Discount, Freebie & Deal (2026)
Planning a trip to the California State Fair? Good news—you don’t have to pay full price!
From $2 admission days to free tickets for kids, Costco bundles, and ways to save on food, here are the best ways to stretch your budget at the 2026 California State Fair, happening July 17–August 2, 2026 at Cal Expo in Sacramento. https://castatefair.com/
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Buy Tickets Online & Save
The easiest way to save is by purchasing your tickets before you go.
Advance Ticket Prices
Adults: $16
Seniors (62+): $12
Kids (5–12): $10
Kids 4 & under: FREE
Gate Prices
Adults: $18
Seniors: $14
Kids (5–12): $12
Buying online saves $2 per ticket, and there are no surprises at the gate.
👉 Official Tickets:
California State Fair Tickets
Monday Family Discount Day
July 20 & 27
Bring the whole family on Monday evenings!
From 4–6 PM, admission is just $2 per person.
If your family is flexible, this is one of the cheapest ways to experience the fair.
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Tuesday Kids Free Day
July 21 & 28
Tuesdays are one of the best values of the entire fair.
You’ll get:
Kids 12 & under FREE admission
$2 carnival rides for everyone
If your kids love rides, this is easily one of the best days to visit.
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Read to Ride Program
Kids can earn free carnival rides before the fair even begins!
Students in Kindergarten through 8th grade who read 2 books and complete a short book review receive:
🎡 2 FREE carnival rides
🚝 1 FREE monorail ticket
Important: This program does not include free admission to the fair.
👉 Learn more about the Read to Ride Program:
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Wednesday Ride & Save Day
July 22 & 29
Planning to spend the day riding rides?
Visit on Wednesday and save:
🎡 $10 off carnival ride passes.
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Friday Senior Savings
July 17, 24 & 31
Guests 62 years and older receive admission for just $10 every Friday.
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SMUD Giving Fridays
July 17, 24 & 31
Donate 5 non-perishable food items at the gate before 3 PM and receive FREE same-day admission.
Your donation supports local food banks while helping you save on admission.
SMUD Giving Friday information (click here)
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Pack Your Own Food
Yes—you can bring food into the California State Fair!
Here are a few things to know:
Outside food is welcome
Sealed plastic water bottles are allowed
Coolers are permitted when attached to a wagon
No glass or metal containers
Packing snacks and drinks can save your family a surprising amount during a full day at the fair.
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Best Value Ticket Packs
If you’re planning ahead, these bundles can save even more.
Season Pass — $54
Perfect if you plan to visit more than once.
Includes:
Unlimited fair admission all season
Available online through the California State Fair ticketing system.
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Fun Pack — $54
Great for families.
Includes:
4 admission tickets
4 carnival ride tickets
1 parking pass
Available online through the California State Fair ticketing system before opening day.
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Costco “Wish You Were Here” Pack — $32.99
Available at participating Costco warehouses.
Includes:
2 general admission tickets
2 × $5 food vouchers
1 parking pass
Available through July 19, while supplies last.
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Quick Money-Saving Tips
✅ Buy admission online before your visit.
✅ Visit on Tuesday if your kids love rides.
✅ Visit on Monday for $2 admission.
✅ Bring your own snacks and water.
✅ Check Costco for the Wish You Were Here Pack before they’re gone.
✅ If you’re visiting multiple times, the Season Pass pays for itself quickly.
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Plan Your Visit
📍 California State Fair
Cal Expo
Sacramento, California
📅 July 17 – August 2, 2026
For tickets, maps, attractions, concerts, and more, visit the official California State Fair website: