5 Genius Ways To Save Big On LA County Fair Tickets In 2026 (Don't Pay Gate Price!)

Planning your trip to the LA County Fair in 2026? You're in luck. The key to maximizing your fun and minimizing your expense lies entirely in how and when you purchase your tickets. As of December 15, 2025, the official dates and a tiered pricing structure have been released, confirming that paying the gate price is the single biggest mistake a fair-goer can make. This guide breaks down the essential ticket types, prices, and insider tips to ensure you secure the best deals for the "Play Your Way" theme in Pomona.

The LA County Fair is scheduled to return to the Fairplex in Pomona from May 7 through May 31, 2026, operating on Thursdays through Sundays, plus the special Memorial Day holiday. This extended May run provides ample opportunity to experience the concerts, famous fair food, livestock exhibits, and thrilling carnival rides, but only if you navigate the ticketing system wisely. Forget the old-school approach—your wallet will thank you for buying smart and early.

LA County Fair 2026 Essential Ticket Types and Pricing Breakdown

The LA County Fair offers several different types of entry, each designed for a specific type of visitor. Understanding these options is the first step in saving money. The most critical takeaway is that all online purchases offer a significant discount compared to the at-the-gate price.

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Single-Day General Admission (GA)

This is the standard ticket for a one-time entry. The price fluctuates based on the day (weekdays are generally cheaper than weekends) and whether you buy online or at the gate. Always buy online to save the most money.

• At the Gate Price: Expect to pay up to $32.00 for a single adult ticket.
• Online Price (Adults): Prices are tiered, but you will save a considerable amount compared to the gate price.
• Online Price (Seniors & Children): Discounted tickets for children (ages 6-12) and seniors (60+) can start as low as $8.00 when purchased online in advance. Children 5 and under are typically free.

The 2026 LA County Fair Value Pass: The Early Bird Special

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For the budget-conscious fair fan, the Value Pass is the best-kept secret. This pass is only valid for the first two weeks of the fair, from May 7 to May 17, 2026. If your schedule allows for a visit during this period, this pass offers the most bang for your buck.

• Value Pass Cost: Only $25.00!
• Value Pass Validity: Valid for one entry on any of the fair's operating days during the first two weeks.

The Fairplex Annual Pass (Season Pass)

If you plan to attend the LA County Fair multiple times, or if you frequently visit other events at the Fairplex, the Annual Pass is your best investment. This pass grants admission to the fair for every single day of the 2026 season.

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• Annual Pass Cost: While specific 2026 pricing may vary, the pass has historically been priced around $79.00, making it a bargain if you attend three or more times.

Crucial Add-On Costs: Parking, Rides, and Concerts

Admission is just the beginning. To truly budget your day at the LA County Fair, you must factor in the non-admission costs, which can quickly add up.

Parking: The Hidden Fee You Must Pre-Pay

Parking is a significant expense that is subject to the same price jump as general admission tickets. You must purchase your parking pass online in advance to save money and ensure a smooth entry.

• General Parking Online: Approximately $22.00 - $22.50.
• General Parking At the Gate: Expect to pay up to $26.00.
• Season Parking Pass: A pass is available for those who purchase the Annual Pass, offering unlimited parking for all fair days.
• Valet Parking: Available at Gate 3 for a premium price, which is announced closer to the fair dates.

Carnival Ride Wristbands and Packages

The LA County Fair carnival is a major attraction, but individual ride tickets are costly. The best way to enjoy unlimited rides is by purchasing a ride wristband or a ride package.

• Unlimited Ride Wristbands: These are typically sold as a single-day add-on and are often discounted when purchased online before the fair opens. Look for special promotions, especially on Thursdays, which often feature the best ride discounts.
• Ride & Game Packages: The fair often partners with third parties to offer discounted packages that bundle a set number of rides and games. Researching these deals before May 7, 2026, can save a family a substantial amount.

The End-of-Day Concert Series

The LA County Fair's highly anticipated concert series, held at the Grandstand, requires a separate ticket from general fair admission. Your concert ticket often includes fair admission if purchased through the official concert ticketing platform (Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, Vivid Seats, etc.), but this must be verified at the time of purchase.

• Concert Ticket Pricing: Varies significantly based on the artist, seat location, and demand. Prices can range from affordable grandstand seats to premium VIP packages.
• How to Buy: Concert tickets go on sale long before the fair opens. Check official vendors like Ticketmaster for the 2026 lineup and early bird deals.

5 Insider Tips to Maximize Your 2026 Fair Savings

To truly master the LA County Fair ticket game, follow these five essential strategies:

1. Buy the Value Pass (May 7-17): If you can visit during the first two weeks, the $25 Value Pass is the cheapest entry option available. It's nearly 25% cheaper than the standard online GA ticket.
2. Always Pre-Purchase Parking: Do not wait until you get to the gate for parking. Buying online saves you approximately $3.50-$4.00 immediately.
3. Check for Partner Discounts: Major retailers and membership clubs often offer discounts. Check with Sam's Club, AAA, or local credit unions for special LA County Fair promotion codes or discounted bundles before buying directly from the fair's website.
4. Go on a Thursday: Thursdays are historically the least crowded and often feature special discounts, including reduced prices for carnival ride wristbands. Plan your visit for a Thursday in May 2026 for the best combination of savings and shorter lines.
5. Utilize the Low-Cost Child/Senior Tickets: If you are attending with children (6-12) or seniors (60+), ensure you purchase their tickets online. The potential savings of buying a $8 ticket online versus a full-price ticket at the gate is substantial.

Summary of LA County Fair 2026 Entities and Keywords

The 2026 LA County Fair (May 7-31, 2026) is the premier spring event in Southern California. Key entities to remember when planning your visit and purchasing your tickets include the Fairplex in Pomona, the official ticketing partner Etix, the popular Value Pass, the long-term Fairplex Annual Pass, and the crucial Season Parking Pass. Other relevant entities include the Concert Series, Carnival Ride Wristbands, Memorial Day, General Admission (GA), and local partners like Sam's Club and AAA for discounts. By focusing on online purchases and leveraging the Value Pass, you can enjoy all the attractions—from the livestock exhibits and tasting rooms to the thrilling rides and fair food—without overspending.