The popular San Diego County Fair returns on June 10, opening its gates once again for 20 days of attractions, classic fair food, and family-friendly entertainment. And this year, for the first time, organizers have introduced a new promotion called “$5 Before 5.”
What to Know About “$5 Before 5”
Under the theme “Once Upon a Fair,” this year’s event brings the enchanted world of books to life and invites visitors from both California and across the border to explore the fairgrounds.
During a press conference held Thursday, fair officials announced that the “$5 Before 5” promotion allows guests to purchase entry tickets for just $5. The offer is valid only on opening day, Wednesday, June 10, for entry before 5 p.m. After that time, regular ticket prices will resume.
For those coming from Baja California or Tijuana, the Fair Tripper package offers a convenient way to skip the drive. The package not only includes fair admission but also covers public transportation costs to and from the San Diego County Fair.
The Fair Tripper ticket includes round-trip travel on the NCTD COASTER, SPRINTER, or BREEZE, as well as the MTS trolley or bus to the Solana Beach COASTER station plus fair entry.
It’s important to note that tickets can only be purchased on the day of the event via the PRONTO mobile app or at any PRONTO ticket vending machine. Train and bus staff will conduct a visual inspection of your printed ticket or the Fair Tripper app. Visitors are advised to keep their printed Fair Tripper ticket for both fair entry and the return trip home.
Food Competition Heats Up at the San Diego County Fair
No fair would be complete without famous food offerings, and this year’s edition provides a chance to discover unexpected combinations, textures, and flavors.
The annual culinary contest features three categories:
- Wow – “Instagrammable” food
- Themed – Dishes that align with the “Once Upon a Fair” theme
- Very San Diego – Food typical of San Diego or made with local ingredients
Each category includes both sweet and savory divisions. Some of the standout dishes include:
- Birria pizza
- Taquito bucket
- Kimchi quesadilla
- Fried mangonada
- Pozole chunkun
- Churros with bacon and dulce de leche
To help keep costs manageable, the San Diego County Fair has partnered with Farmacias Roma to offer exclusive discounts on tickets purchased at any of their locations throughout Baja California, saving visitors between $5 and $8 per ticket.
Additionally, children ages 5 and under enter free every day. On Fridays, all children ages 12 and under also receive free admission to the fairgrounds.
Learn more about this year’s event: Once Upon a Fair: San Diego County Fair’s Magical Summer Event
