"The Biggest Little Fair Anywhere!" The Fair opened in 1946 and was first known as the San Luis Obispo County Fair. The California Mid-State Fair, held annually in Paso Robles, is a vibrant celebration of the region's rich agricultural heritage and a beloved community tradition. Spanning twelve days in July, the fairgrounds come alive with an array of activities and attractions that cater to all ages. From thrilling carnival rides to captivating live entertainment, the fair offers a diverse lineup of events that showcase the best of local culture, talent, and craftsmanship.
One of the fair's main highlights is its impressive concert series, featuring performances by world-renowned artists across various music genres. These concerts draw large crowds, creating an electrifying atmosphere as attendees gather to enjoy spectacular shows under the stars. The Fair has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry. Artists such as Aerosmith, Garth Brooks, Tom Petty, George Strait, Journey, Rod Stewart, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Dolly Parton, and Kenny Rogers have all performed on our Main Grandstand Arena stage, among many others. Additionally, the fairgrounds host a variety of competitions and exhibitions, including livestock shows, home arts displays, and agricultural contests, which honor the skills and dedication of local farmers, artisans, and hobbyists.
The California Mid-State Fair also boasts an extensive array of food and beverage options, offering everything from classic fair treats like cotton candy and funnel cakes to gourmet dishes that highlight the region’s culinary traditions. Wine and beer enthusiasts can explore tastings from local wineries and breweries, celebrating Paso Robles' reputation as a premier wine country destination. With its vibrant mix of entertainment, education, and community spirit, the California Mid-State Fair is a cherished event that brings together people from near and far to celebrate the heart and soul of the Central Coast.
Daily alcohol observations will be conducted to ensure service is in compliance with the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Department’s Rules and Regulations. Alcohol sales cease one hour prior to Fair closing each night or earlier to the sole discretion of the Fair’s CEO and Chief of Event Staff. Entry gate security supervision will observe and report any guest attempting to enter intoxicated. Event Staff and local Law Enforcement will not allow entry to anyone intoxicated. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted and will be confiscated if found on any persons.
For your convenience, Paso Robles Event Center offers several on-site ATMs throughout the fairgrounds.
We have a ton planned for you this summer! Click HERE to browse the carnival, food, activities, demos, and special events coming to the Fair!
General photography and video are allowed on the Fairgrounds during the 12 days of the Fair as long as the following guidelines are adhered to:
Helm & Sons Amusements is our current carnival provider. Click HERE to view ride lists and requirements.
Shirts and footwear must be worn at all times. Failure to comply with this policy may result in expulsion from the Paso Robles Event Center. We recommend you dress in layers as Paso Robles evenings may be cool. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with flat heels are recommended for the best experience walking around the venue. Some carnival rides require closed-toe shoes.
It is the mission of The Paso Robles Event Center to celebrate, educate and, most importantly, have fun. To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all Fair guests, the following guidelines, policies and code of conduct are in place. In an effort to improve the Fair experience for patrons, the Fair has developed a Code of Conduct including 10 common-sense guidelines intended to foster a safe and comfortable atmosphere for all guests. Any violation of the following common-sense guidelines could result in ejection or arrest at The Paso Robles Event Center.
In order to ensure a safe and celebratory environment, we ask that patrons refrain from the following behavior at The Paso Robles Event Center:
Failure to comply may subject you to ejection or arrest. Guests are encouraged to report inappropriate behavior to team/venue personnel. We welcome your help in our efforts to provide an enjoyable experience for all guests. These rules are subject to change at any time without notice.
Show us what you’ve got! Click HERE to browse our competitions and still exhibits programs.
Please be respectful of fellow concert-goers.
Physical Address - 2198 Riverside Avenue, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Mailing Address - PO Box 8, Paso Robles, CA 93447
Phone - (805) 239-0655
Fax - (805) 238-5308
Chief Executive Officer - Colleen Bojorquez - colleen@midstatefair.com
Deputy Manager - Kim Daily - kim@midstatefair.com
Box Office - tickets@midstatefair.com
Year-Round Events - Tisha Tucker - tisha@midstatefair.com
Exhibits - exhibits@midstatefair.com
Livestock - livestock@midstatefair.com
Maintenance & Operations - Mike Esser - mikeesser@midstatefair.com
Commercial Exhibits, Concessions & Contracts - Sabrina Sakaguchi - sabrina@midstatefair.com
Sponsorships - Tom Keffury - tk@midstatefair.com
Marketing - Sahvanna Martineau - sahvanna@midstatefair.com
Accounts Payable - accounting@midstatefair.com
All Other Inquiries - mail@midstatefair.com
Click HERE to view our Daily Schedule.
The California Mid-State Fair offers many discounts, pre-sales and special offers. Please click HERE to learn more.
In order to protect the safety, security, privacy and property interests of the Paso Robles Event Center, its employees, agents, contractors and the public is prohibited to any operation or use of unmanned aircraft systems, remote or radio controlled model aircraft of all types, shapes, and sizes or any other similar type devices (collectively “Drones”). Use of any of these devices is strictly prohibited on the premises of the Paso Robles Event Center, unless otherwise authorized by the Paso Robles Event Center. Please be advised that violation of this policy will result in immediate ejection from the premises and may subject the violator to a criminal trespass warning or arrest for those who fail to comply.
If you are in need of assistance, please find Event Staff, Local Law Enforcement or head to the Information Booth located at the Main Quad. They can direct you to the medical area located by the Main Admin Office and Frontier Building.
Unauthorized solicitation on the grounds or in any of the parking lot areas is not allowed.
No outside food or beverages are allowed into the venue, including Hydro Flasks or other metal containers (filled or empty). Sealed plastic water bottles are allowed. Exceptions may be made for medical reasons or baby food. All patrons are subject to search and all alcohol will be confiscated.
We offer a wide variety of concession items, as well as non-alcoholic beverages. Click HERE to view concession lists coming to this year’s Fair!
We currently do not offer group rates.
The Information Booth is located in the Main Quad.
Click HERE to learn more about the Horse Show.
Valid ID required for all patrons who wish to purchase alcoholic beverages, as required by law.
Local Law Enforcement agencies will be in and around the Paso Robles Event Center working to ensure your safety.
Click HERE to learn more about the Livestock Department.
We will store your belongings for $5.00 per bag at the information booth at the Main Quad.
Please fill out THIS FORM if you found or lost an item at the Fair. All items found or turned in to Mid-State Fair staff, owner's will be contacted directly using the above filled out form.The Paso Robles Event Center is not responsible for any articles lost or left behind. Any item turned in to the Main Office will be kept for 30 days.
General Fair Coverage - Media Application (CLOSED)
This form is NOT for concert access, please skip down to the next section. Media accreditation is reserved for reporters, writers, videographers, producers, and photographers who work for established media outlets, in the radio, newspaper, digital, magazine and television industries, who are specifically assigned to cover the California Mid-State Fair.
Concert Photography & Videography Application (CLOSED)
To be granted an official photography credential and thus have permission to take 'specific artist' photographs of acts appearing as part of the 2024 Michelob ULTRA Concert Series shall be granted/denied on a case-by-case basis, pending approval of California Mid-State Fair officials and artist management.
To request, please email Tom Keffury directly at tk@midstatefair.com (closed) no later than Friday, July 5, 2024, with your specific request(s). You will be notified via email of approval/denial no later than Friday, July 12, 2024.
Concert Review (CLOSED)
For working members of the media only, to request complimentary tickets to one or more of the concerts of the 2024 Michelob ULTRA Concert Series. Tickets granted shall be for the purpose of 'concert review' only. If approved, you will be required to email a digital link and/or air-check of your review to Tom Keffury at tk@midstatefair.com within 72 hours after the date of the concert.
Please fill out THIS FORM (closed) no later than Friday, July 5, 2024 with your specific request(s). You will be notified via email of approval/denial no later than Friday, July 12, 2024.
Photo & Video Permissions While Attending The Fair - The ticket holder acknowledges that the event may be broadcast or otherwise publicized by the California Mid-State Fair, and consents to the use of the holder’s image or likeness incidental to any live or recorded video display or other transmission or reproductions of the event to which our event ticket provides admission, by the California Mid-State Fair.
The following items NOT allowed at the Paso Robles Event Center:
We currently do not have a clear bag policy in place. Normal sized purses and bags are permitted. Additional restrictions may apply. All bags are subject to search upon venue entry.
All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.
Please have your Uber, Lyft, Taxi or car pick you up on the southbound facing side of Riverside Ave.
Moving forward 2024 and beyond, all entrants into the Fairgrounds through the “Rodeo Gate” will need valid admission (admission ticket, season pass, Fair-issued photo id) and a valid vehicle/trailer pass. NO EXCEPTIONS! The Rodeo Gate is NOT a gate for general public entrance. See below for additional specific instructions for Horse Show and Livestock Competitions.
To enter the Rodeo gate you will need:
HORSE SHOW COMPETITIONS:
Pre-Entered Contestants: If you are a pre-registered contestant for Horse Show, your entry fee includes admission and your name will be forwarded to the “Rodeo Gate” staff by the Horse Show Office. However, individuals accompanying you in your vehicle must either provide proof of admission or purchase admission at the gate, where tickets will be scanned for entry. Admission will be available for purchase at the Rodeo Gate before gaining access.
Day-of Entries: Contestants entering the event on the day of need to present a valid admission ticket or season pass at the gate for scanning before entry. If you don't have either, you can buy a one-day admission ticket at the gate, which is valid only for that day. Upon registering for your events at the Horse Show office, present your admission ticket to receive a refund equivalent to its purchase price.
Pre-purchased admission: Please ensure you have your daily admission, season pass, or Fair-issued photo ID ready to be scanned at the gate for entry. Only valid forms of admission will be accepted.
Vehicle/Trailer Parking: Horse Show parking is first-come, first-served and vehicle passes will be available at the Rodeo Gate. If the lot is full and you are required to park in Pioneer Lot, the Rodeo Gate will provide a vehicle pass. Questions? Please email horseshow@midstatefair.com or call the Horse Show office at (805) 238-5098.
LIVESTOCK COMPETITIONS:
All vehicle passengers must have an admission/season pass to enter the fairgrounds.
Vehicle passes are issued by the Livestock Office. Single-day shows will have an exhibitor list at the gate for entry drop off and a pass will be issued for trailer parking. Livestock feed and supply deliveries are limited and allow vehicle access from 6:00 am to 10:00 am only. Delivery passes are provided by the Livestock Office. Parent/Guardian passes and exhibitor passes can be scanned at the gate or you will be required to purchase admission. Questions? Please email livestock@midstatefair.com or call the Livestock Office (805) 238-3272.
Rodeo Gate General FAQs:
Where is admission available for purchase? You can purchase discount admission prior to Opening Day July 16th at Farm Supply, the Box Office located on Riverside Avenue (11:00 am – 4:00 pm), or www.midstatefair.com.
What if my name is not on the list?
How do I get a Vehicle/Trailer Pass? Your vehicle and trailer MUST have a vehicle pass to enter the fairgrounds and the pass must be displayed at all times. Your vehicle or trailer WILL BE TOWED—at your expense-- if proper identification is not displayed. (JohnnyBoy’s Towing (805) 239-HELP). Each department supervisor should provide vehicle/trailer passes, or the Rodeo Gate staff will provide the vehicle/trailer pass if approved by the department supervisor.
What if I am not a Horse Show or Livestock exhibitor? The department supervisor that directed you to the Rodeo Gate should have provided proper credentials. They are your point of contact, not the Rodeo Gate staff.
What if I walk out to my trailer parked off grounds and need back in the gate? All gates provide a hand stamp when leaving the Fairgrounds. If you plan to return, you MUST be sure to get your hand stamped and show the staff member the stamp when you re-enter through the gate. There is no re-entry onto the Fairgrounds after 10:00 pm.
What if my name is not on the list:
The California Mid-State Fair provides a safe environment for families and all our guests, exhibitors, staff, volunteers and partners. The Fair has a Public Safety Program intended for deterring unwanted activities on the fairgrounds. We are proactive in our desire to provide this positive experience. As a result, all bags, purses and personal belongings will be screened at entrance gates for contraband. Hand-held metal detecting wands will be in use by Fair staff. No weapons, food or alcohol will be allowed in. This includes pocket knives of any size or length. Other contraband includes items that would not be allowed onto a commercial airplane.
Pets or other animals are not permitted on site, unless the pet/animal is part of an authorized show or competitive exhibit. Working service animals are permitted as defined by the ADA. Service dogs must be on a leash, always. Pet owners are liable for any public or personal damages.
The Paso Robles Event Center is a smoke-free and vape-free facility.
Strollers and wagons are allowed at the Paso Robles Event Center and will be searched and wanded upon entry at all Gates. They are not available for rent.
Tailgating is not permitted at the Paso Robles Event Center. This policy is in place for the safety and enjoyment of all guests attending an event at our venue.
Please note: Only tickets purchased from MidStateFair.com or Ticketmaster.com are valid. We cannot guarantee the validity of tickets purchased from third party websites like StubHub, SeetGeek, VividSeats, EventTickets.com, etc. and staff will not be able to assist you if you purchase from a secondary ticketing site.
Daily Admission & Season Passes
Grandstand Concert Ticket
Questions
Ticket Giveaways: Please note that ticket giveaways, of any kind, concert, admission, carnival, must be approved by the California Mid-State Fair and/or Artist Management and are only allowed to be executed by sponsors of the California Mid-State Fair (unless otherwise authorized) with prior written consent. Any and all requests for ticket giveaways should be sent via email to publicity@midstatefair.com.
The California Mid-State Fair is pleased to offer patrons the opportunity to park off-site for free and then catch a free ride to the Fair via a SLO Safe Ride Shuttle Bus! Food and beverages are not allowed on the SLO Safe Ride Shuttle Busses. *Locations/Times subject to change.
Hours of operation:
Mondays-Thursdays: 4:00 pm to Midnight
Fridays-Sundays: Noon to Midnight
Pick-up/Drop-off Locations:
Albertsons Parking Lot @ City Bus Stop
City Hall @ 10th/Spring
Lowe’s Hardware @ Main Parking Lot
Please make sure you DO NOT park in restricted areas, as your automobile may be towed at your expense (parking is 100% the individual's responsibility). Please be aware and kind to neighboring businesses! Please allow for ample time to get to the Fair, purchase admission tickets and gain admission to the Fair. Please check with the City of Paso Robles for more information on Downtown parking.
Empty plastic reusable water bottles and sealed plastic water bottles are allowed. Metal reusable water bottles/cups are not allowed. We have two refill stations located at the Main Quad and by the Paso Robles Pavilion / Cal Fire building.
The Paso Robles Event Center is an outdoor venue. While summer days can be hot, the evening hours bring cooling breezes from the Pacific. Therefore, bringing a sweater or jacket is recommended. All events are held rain or shine except in the case of severe or potentially damaging weather as may be determined by the venue and artist. In the case of rain, umbrellas will not be permitted. Please check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
No one is permitted to carry or possess handguns, firearms, knives, or any other weapons on the Paso Robles Event Center property, including CCW permit holders. The only exceptions to this policy are on and off-duty police officers, security personnel, or other authorized individuals who have received prior written approval from the Paso Robles Event Center to carry a weapon on the premises.
