The two biggest fairs in California—the California State Fair in Sacramento and the LA County Fair in Pomona—each offer a distinct experience that reflects their region’s identity. The California State Fair, held every July at Cal Expo, is a celebration of the state’s agricultural richness and regional diversity. It features livestock competitions, a California Counties Exhibit highlighting each region’s unique culture, award-winning wine, cheese, and craft beer tastings, and the California State Fair Farm, an interactive showcase of farming practices. Educational and community-focused, it blends family fun with a strong emphasis on California-grown pride.

Meanwhile, the LA County Fair, now held each May at the Fairplex in Pomona, is one of the largest county fairs in the U.S., drawing over 1 million visitors. What sets it apart is its scale and urban entertainment vibe—from over 70 carnival rides, massive food halls serving outrageous creations (like deep-fried hot sauce or bacon-wrapped pickles), and art and history exhibits, to major concerts and pop culture attractions. It also includes heritage farming exhibits, but with more emphasis on high-energy entertainment, shopping, and spectacle. Together, these fairs offer two very different but equally iconic slices of California life—one rooted in tradition, the other thriving on urban flair and variety.