The LA County Fair 2025 burst onto the scene on May 2 at Fairplex in Pomona, launching a 16-day celebration that’s already drawing crowds with its “Art Unleashed” theme. This 96th edition of the fair, running through May 26, promises a whirlwind of creativity, from dazzling carnival rides to mouthwatering dishes that scream indulgence. Yesterday’s opening day saw discounted tickets at $9.50 online, a larger roller skating rink, and a new petting zoo packed with mini-horses and pigs. Whether you’re a foodie, thrill-seeker, or art lover, this year’s fair has something to spark your curiosity. Let’s dive into what makes this event a must-visit, with the latest updates hot off the press.
Why LA County Fair 2025 Is a Can’t-Miss Event
This year’s “Art Unleashed” theme weaves creativity into every corner of the 500-acre Fairplex. Walter Marquez, Fairplex’s president and CEO, described it as a celebration of the “creative spirit” reflected in crafts, culinary delights, and carnival thrills. Over 150 food vendors are dishing out everything from classic corn dogs to inventive treats, while live performances, including flamenco dancers on the Plaza Stage, add a cultural flair. The fair operates Thursdays through Sundays, plus Memorial Day, with hours from 11 a.m. to midnight. For frequent visitors, a season pass starts at $79, covering five other Fairplex events, or grab a $25 Value Pass for the first two weeks.
Traffic alerts are out: expect delays near Fairplex on weekends, so plan your trip early. Posts on X are buzzing with excitement, with locals like @misszjackie hyping the fair’s return. Meanwhile, cultural institutions like The Getty are hosting hands-on print-making workshops, and muralist Fabian Debora is painting a massive “Love for Los Angeles” mural, making this fair a vibrant blend of community and creativity.
Here’s All the Food You Need to Try at the LA County Fair 2025
Food is the heart of any fair, and LA County Fair 2025 delivers with bold, Instagram-worthy options. Over 150 concessionaires are serving up classics and quirky creations. Here’s a rundown of must-try dishes:
- Meatball Mozzarella Corndog: A savory twist on the classic, blending juicy meatballs with gooey cheese in a crispy shell.
- Chocolate Strawberry Cup: Plump strawberries drenched in rich Belgian chocolate—perfect for a sweet escape.
- Fruity Pebbles Corn Dog: A playful, cereal-crusted treat that’s as fun to eat as it is to photograph.
- Pickle Lemonade: A tangy, refreshing sip that’s dividing taste buds but winning over adventurous palates.
Vendors like Charlie Boghosian and Dominic Palmieri, part of Ray Cammack Shows, are behind these over-the-top offerings. LAist’s food writer braved the preview day, raving about the “bookoo flavors” that balance salty, spicy, and sweet. Pair your meal with a wine tasting from the Los Angeles International Wine Competition, happening on-site. With so many choices, pacing yourself is key—grab a friend and share the bounty.
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Rides, Animals, and New Attractions
Beyond the food, the fair’s carnival rides are a major draw. The Galaxy Coaster and other thrill rides promise heart-pounding fun, while the expanded Skate-R-Cade combines roller skating with a video game arcade for a retro-modern vibe. Families will love the new petting zoo, where kids can meet donkeys, goats, and mini-horses. The Farm area showcases agricultural exhibits, with fresh vegetables and livestock displays that nod to the fair’s roots.
Thummer, the fair’s cartoon pig mascot since 1948, stars in a new play by Center Theater Group, performed every weekend. Bob Baker Marionettes bring puppet shows every Sunday, adding whimsy for all ages. These updates, verified through recent reports, ensure there’s never a dull moment.
LA County Fair 2025: Art and Community Shine
Art takes center stage with contributions from cultural heavyweights. The Music Center’s flamenco performances and The Getty’s Pavilion, blending well-being and art, elevate the fair’s vibe. Posts on X, like
@CamGnarly’s shoutout to curating a Mother’s Day stage, highlight the fair’s role as a community hub. Despite a recent two-day strike by over 50,000 LA County workers ending April 30, fair operations remain unaffected, with no disruptions reported.
For budget-conscious visitors, online tickets start at $9.50, and the fair’s website offers deals like the Value Pass. Check the schedule for concerts, from rock to Latin, included with admission. With so much to see, eat, and do, the fair is a perfect way to kick off summer.
Plan Your Visit Before It’s Gone
The LA County Fair 2025 wraps up on May 26, so don’t wait to experience this explosion of art, food, and fun. Whether you’re snapping selfies with a Fruity Pebbles corn dog, cheering at a flamenco show, or petting a mini-horse, the fair delivers memories that linger. Head to Fairplex prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and explore the full schedule at lacountyfair.com. As the fair’s hashtag #ArtUnleashed trends online, join the conversation and share your favorite moments. This is more than a fair—it’s a celebration of LA’s creative soul.