The 2025 San Diego County Fair is open June 11th through July 6th at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The Fair is located at the mouth of the San Dieguito River, adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, amidst a picturesque setting. The theme this year is “Summer Pet-tacular,” a celebration of the bond between humans and their pets. There are exhibits exploring the world from a pet’s perspective, adoption events in partnership with the San Diego Humane Society, and other pet-themed activities. And, of course, there’s always lots of rides, games, music, entertainment, animals, community exhibits, food, and fun. Something for everyone.
The San Diego County Fair originated in 1880, when a group of San Diegans organized an agricultural fair to bring county farmers together to share ideas and compete with one another. The Fair became an annual tradition and was held in various locations throughout San Diego until moving to its present home at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in 1936. The Fair is the longest running event in San Diego County. The Fair has only been suspended a few times–during World Wars I & II and the COVID-19 pandemic. Generations of San Diegans have made the annual fair a part of their summer tradition. My favorite exhibit at the Fair is the flower display. I’ve discovered new varieties of roses, giant dinnerplate dahlias, exotic orchids, and other fun flowers. I also enjoy visiting the animal barns—I have a soft spot for my fuzzy and feathered friends. And no fair excursion would be complete without a hot bag of freshly fried cinnamon sugar mini donuts. They always bring to mind the story of Homer Price and the wacky Doughnut Machine (by Robert McCloskey). My husband’s favorite thing is the music. He enjoys attending the concerts and listening to the musicians playing at the various stages scattered throughout the fairgrounds. The kiddos like the rides the best. And the food, of course. So many choices, so little time. Have fun! And Bon Appétit!
