Saturday, 4-25-2026: We came for the 2026 San Diego Spring Home & Garden Show held in O' Brien Hall. I was able to get a discounted parking ticket online at $4.00 off coming to a total of only $16.00. I was able to conveniently upload the ticket in my "wallet" on my phone. There were a lot of vendors present that were geared toward home improvement then there were the other ones who were very pushy hawking skin care. That's not what we came for. We were looking into a water system for our home & hoped to see the folks selling Murphy beds this year. They had an outdoor area with garden items and plants. There were 3 food trucks out there. We shared a delicious cappuccino. We spoke to Life Source Water Systems for a bit & with Verizon. We had switched to T-Mobile and regret it. We may switch back to Verizon. With Life Source we submitted for financing, got approved but changed our minds about the system when we found out they don't eliminate hard water. So, why go with this system and at a $8,000 price tag? It was nice to visit and for it to be in this location in Del Mar. it's a very pretty area. It was odd to see the actual buildings because we usually come here for the fair and the buildings are obscured by tents and kiosks. At any rate the fairgrounds are well maintained & always offer a nice, clean, and spacious venue. read more

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Amazing exhibit with a huge collection of Banksy pieces, including statues, prints, CDs, and more. Some of the works look like replicas of current installations, but it still feels like a very complete and immersive showcase of his art and style. One thing I really liked is that the exhibit lets you move at your own pace. You can take your time with each piece, and there's a lot to look at. There are also several video displays that highlight different locations, events, and specific works, which adds a lot of context to the experience. There's plenty here to keep you busy -- you could easily spend close to two hours if you really want to read everything and take in every detail. The exhibit is located at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, which makes it really convenient to visit. There's plenty of parking and it's easy to get in and out without any hassle. Definitely worth checking out if you're a Banksy fan or just enjoy street art. read more

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WYLAND CENTER AT THE FAIRGROUNDS This space hosts many events. It's a great space for it. Yes, if you attend any event here parking is not free. Been here a few times for other events and most recently the SUMO + SUSHI EVENT. Saki-JabaMoto has entered the building.... SUMO + SUSHI EVENT - Security: they were nice but they suck at their job. They guarded the entrance when showing your passes but not effort for searching for any unwanted things to bring inside. - Logistics: well thought out - Ushers/Staff: well organized - Food: the tickets were expensive, the tickets with food were near double and the food was basic. We chose to opt out on the sushi/bento box because it's not quality if you are making HUNDREDS / mass quantity of (isn't really quality). We planned to eat at one of my favorite sushi spots in SD afterwards for better quality. - Snacks/Bar: tents outside and well organized. But overpriced for H-mart snacks and the cheapest alcohol was a $12 dollar small bottle of soju. - Event: pricy for the tickets. Most of the time they are just showing positions and then at the end 10 staged sumo matches. Yes place your bets with friends and strangers makes it fun. Bring on more events! read more

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THE ART OF BANKSY WITHOUT LIMITS EXHIBITION IN SAN DIEGO FOR THE FIRST TIME When the topic is street art, there is no way around him: Banksy is probably the most famous and also the most mysterious graffiti artist in the world. The Art of Banksy Without Limits is in San Diego for the first time after its incredible worldwide success with over 3,000,000 visitors! Explore 200 of the artist's works, such as his original art, prints, photos, sculptures, and much more. THE ART OF BANKSY LOCATION IN SAN DIEGO Del Mar Fairgrounds 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014, United States https://artofbanksyus.com/san-diego/ read more

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Went here today for The Art of Banksy. Breathtaking. Nice venue with lots of parking. Pay $20 upfront or pay $16 online 24 hours before your event. I believe there were sumo + sushi and the great junk hunt events taking place at the same time. Thank goodness there were signs pointing us in the right direction. Come here ASAP! Thank ya & enjoy! read more

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We went to see the "Art of Banksy: Without Limits" exhibit here and it was nicely curated with many replicas of his work throughout the years. It has over 200 pieces, including original art, prints, and sculptures, along with replicas of murals. It's definitely a good show to check out as it's self-paced and organized well since you choose a time to enter when you purchase tickets. My only complaint is the parking, given that you are in the exhibit for 2 to maybe 3 hours max, paying $20 for parking is kinda hefty. read more

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The San Diego County Fair at the Del Mar Fairgrounds is pure summer fun! The moment you walk in you're greeted with colorful displays, upbeat music, and the mouthwatering aroma of classic fair food. From giant funnel cakes topped with fresh strawberries and soft-serve swirls to unique themed photo spots like the playful "Kitty Glitter" lounge, every corner invites you to snap a picture and make memories. The layout is easy to navigate, the staff are friendly, and there's truly something for everyone--rides, live music, games, and endless food choices. We loved relaxing in shaded seating areas between exploring exhibits and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Whether you're coming for the food, the photo ops, or just a great day out with friends and family, this fair delivers a perfect blend of excitement and charm. Highly recommended for locals and visitors alike! They also have a hidden Speakeasy bar :) read more

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My review is specifically off one of their special events that was New Orleans themed. It was our first time ever being at the fairgrounds. What we didn't realize is that the event is all on the ground floor to the left of the stands. What that it meant is that we were out in the sun more and we couldn't see all of the races that well since we only could see when they passed directly in front of us. On top of that for more than $40 a ticket we only got 5 drink tickets and no included food. All the food was New Orleans themed which is kind of cool except each dish was $20 minimum, for pretty small portions. We got jambalaya that was $24 for the smallest bowl with barely any protein. The drinks were also only limited beer options or very sugary mixed drinks and they were these small 4(?) oz. Portions. If you wanted to buy your own drinks they were very expensive. If I were to go back I'd just get seats in the stands and have more options for food and drinks. read more

Del Mar Fairgrounds - Jambalaya - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Del Mar, California

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Our day started with free parking at Canyon Crest Academy and the school bus ride to the fair. The theme this year is pets and it was cool seeing cats, dogs, guinea pigs, birds, and fish. I've had fish since I was a kid. It's fun watching them swim around doing fish stuff. I've not had any for awhile as it makes me sad when they die. I still like watching other people's fish swim around. For lunch I went to Chicken Charlie's and tried the small Canadian fried lobster tails with fries. Lobster tail had a crispy battered outer layer and tender, juicy lobster beneath. Lightly seasoned, I could really taste the lobster. I am a huge fan of fried lobster as the frying process brings out the delicious lobster flavor. Fries were crispy and full of potato flavor. I also had some fried zucchini from Chicken Charlie's. The battered zucchini strips were crispy on the outside and tender and juicy beneath. Loved the fried zucchini flavor. One of Maggie's favorite things to see is the flower show. I love to stop and smell the roses. Each one has a unique scent. As the day was coming to an end I got some Indian Fry Bread with powdered sugar. There was a thin crispy outer layer while the rest was fluffy. Loved the fried dough flavor with the sweetness from the powdered sugar. I have loved Indian Fry Bread since I had some on my Monument Valley trip. This version was delicious. One of the things I love seeing at the fair is the photography exhibit. Lots of great looking photos. No photography allowed in the photo exhibit so I don't have any photos of the photos. Our 2nd to last stop was the plant vendor which we have been visiting for years. Maggie always finds a lovely plant she didn't know she needed. On my way out I stopped by the Carlsbad Strawberry stand and picked up a 3 pack. These strawberries were at peak ripeness and the heavenly scent filled the air on the way home. Strawberries were juicy and bursting with sweet strawberry flavor. I was amazed by how good these strawberries were. When I finish these I'll have to visit the farmer's market and get more. I've loved visiting the fair since I was a kid. Lots of stuff to see and eat and you get lots of exercise walking around. I love how each year there are new fabulous sights to see and unique foods to eat. read more

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Every year, I'm always excited to go to the fair. It has definitely gotten pricier since inflation. You're definitely going to spend $Parking $20, entry $20-25 depending on what day you go, and about $20-$25 on a meal and that does not include a drink. Drinks were going for about $4.50 for water and lemonade anywhere from $6-$11 and Fresca anywhere from $13-$23 and that is no exaggeration. A standard turkey leg is about $21 the food is just expensive crazy expensive so come prepared. The rides are about 5-10 tickets and a you can get $20 tickets for $20. Ok tip: Get your Fair tickets from Costco for 100.00 which included, parking ticket, 4 admissions any day, 40 tickets, and a coupon for a Fair small book filled with coupons to save $$. Do not bring cash as they do not accept cash at any of the food establishments, market for goods, nor exchange cash at the ticket booths. I think it's a good and chill experience overall, but I definitely think that is overrated for the prices and if you can afford it, I think you should try it at least once and if not it's ok your pockets are saved read more

Del Mar Fairgrounds - San Diego Fair in Delmar 2025 - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Del Mar, California

PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT REVIEW AT THE FAIR I'm at the fair with my teen. I'm not that drop off mom. So of course I had to have my own itinerary, and the fair did fine. Garden Center. Check. Exhibit Halls. Check. Cinnamon rolls. Check. Photography Exhibit. Triple check. I'll be real. I've been coming to the fair 20 years and have never stepped a toe in the photography exhibit. Now I will honor such a joyful experience. I arrived @3pm, no crowds. Full of people quietly enjoying the images with a slow walk pace. It's sort of like in the movies. Benches in the middle facing artistry and being eclectic. While knowing in a couple of months it'll be those same benched where I'm watching the Del Mar races. *Share a brief overview of the photography exhibit* If you need a break from the crowds, rides, and fried food, the Photography Exhibit at the Del Mar Fairgrounds is the perfect escape. Tucked inside Grandstand East. You can easily spend 1 - 3 hours depending on your art interest range. And if you go at the right time, you can sit in on a couple of workshops. I attended the Hikes and Photography. *What are the amenities?* -Art -Tri level -Workshops -Air-conditioned -Ample seating -No hustle or bustle - More than 1000 submissions *What's the vibe?* It's a space that draws you in with powerful images and thoughtful compositions of local artists. This year's exhibit showcases a wide range of styles--from vivid landscapes to emotional portraits, sculptures oils, and creative digital edits. Whether you're into black-and-white storytelling or colorful action shots, there's something that will catch your eye. I saw many standouts but I didn't want to get caught taking pictures. What typically moves me is nature landscapes. I'm going to be real if I was the judges all of the ones they just for second and third would never have fallen on my judge roster. But that is the beauty of art. Art is in the eye of the beholder. *What category needs to be improved?* Another popular section featured youth submissions, offering a fresh perspective that reminded viewers that great photography isn't about expensive gear--it's about seeing the world differently. However, I noticed that there was the same artist that had several submissions and ribbons. Therefore we need to get the word out that we need youth to compete. Like, let's really make it a competition. The exhibit is well-organized, and each photo includes a short caption or title that adds to the impact. It's a nice balance of technical skill and personal story, and many images spark conversation. *What's need to know?* -Free, part of the fair -You'll thank me later -Mobility and wheelchair accessible TIP: It's easy to miss this building if you're focused on the main attractions, but it's worth the stop--especially if you appreciate visual storytelling. "Make the most beautiful thing you can. Try to do that every day. That's it." ~Laurie Anderson read more

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I love the events at Del Mar! This one was Coastal Christmas. It's a Christmas event that was great for the whole family or even just for a last minute adult night out! There was a trail of lights, "ice skating," a wine walk trail, two themed specialty bars, food vendors, merch vendors, and games and activities for the kids. read more

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I try to go to the fair at least once each year for my funnel cake fix. This year I went for the Zedd concert. The concert ticket included entry to the fair. There is always heavy traffic getting into the parking lot so we decided to Uber this time. There is a separate entrance for ride shares which was really nice because we got in quickly. We got there a couple hours early so we could explore the fair and eat some fair food before the concert started. I enjoyed a delicious frozen rose, corn on the cob, bacon wrapped fried pickles, and funnel cake. We wanted the ground floor tickets for the concert but they were sold out so we ended up in seats really high up in the stadium. It's difficult to dance in the stadium seating and the music is not as loud there but I still had a good time! read more

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Spent the day in Del Mar and part of the trip was to come to the great junk hunt. I had gone to the one in Pomona a few years back. Impressed by the lineup of vendors then so decided to visit this venue. Parking was easy ($16 pre purchased online $20 at the gate). General admission tickets is $10. I recognized some of the sellers and noticed others missing. The ones that were there were great. I did purchase from several sellers from jewelry to beauty and home/garden. Very organized set up of the show but I just thought there could have been more sellers. You can be in and out in less than 2 hours. I'll probably catch the Pomona show next year since I'm very close to that location. read more

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We decided to watch at the fairgrounds (sumo+sushi) and it was AMAZING. The staff from parking all the to security was great. Definitely recommend. read more

Del Mar Fairgrounds - An amazing dinner compliments of Noir sushi - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Del Mar, California

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It's our favorite Southern California fair. Weather is never to hot because it near the ocean. This is as old time fun you can get! Lapidary, glass blowing and woodwork and several stages with different genres of music. Fun fair foods, animals and rides! We comeback every year! read more

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Here at the Del mar fair. So far we saw beautiful horses and sheep and donkeys. And we saw this super cool chicken coop that we want to win. read more

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The best place to be! Del Mar is a great town in San Diego and the track is historical. There is no better day out than a day at this track. Greatest city in America! read more

Del Mar Fairgrounds - The track - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Del Mar, California

One of my favorite fairgrounds. There is so much to do when the fair is here. The exhibits are always fun to go around. I love how every year they change the theme and this year was about pet. The food we got was more in the snack side because honestly the cost of meals are expensive and not worth in my opinion. We tried a huge pretzel, small doughnuts which were made fresh, and we got some Dutch coffee from the milk booth which was the best. The shows are always fun! I would definitely try to plan ahead that way you can get to see all the shows. The one about milk one was very educational! There also speakeasy and we went to the one called destination unknown. They do a good job decorating it. The drinks are okay in my opinion. They also cost a lot so you definitely doing it for the experience. read more

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First time here visiting from out of town and attended the Christmas show! It was AMAZING! The food, the sphere immersive show, the fire pits and igloos, the glice, the lights show. It was a ton of interesting amazing things to do for the whole family. Everyone we encountered that was staff was friendly. Paid parking on site read more

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Came here for the foodieland event and the Parking sucks no cash people was everywhere no type of control and way overpriced....

The Del Mar Fair was so much fun! There was so much to do; we got to see the monster trucks (which were awesome!), pet some adorable animals, play games, go on rides, and of course, eat some seriously good fair food. The energy was great, and there was something for everyone; kids, adults, and everyone in between. Prices were a bit on the higher side (especially for food and games), but honestly, it was worth it for the experience. read more

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We have been going to the formerly Del Mar Fair which is now the San Diego Fair for decades. It has changed a bit over the years but it is still a great time with great food and fun for all. The midway has been taken over by 95% food and just a few booths of arts and crafts. Most shopping is now in the halls off to the side of the main drag. Rides are in back and alcohol free so plan ahead if you have a drink in your hand and plan to walk over to the ride area. Here are a few tips: Do get a corn dog but choose wisely.. the giant ones from Texas are like 25 bucks.. seriously.. lots of normal sized ones for a fraction of that price. Do get kettle corn.. it's just good. Be careful on the character drawing on the main drag.. they are just so so and very expensive if you want colors. There is a nice quiet rest area on the north side off the main drag.. just walk into any number of side streets and you will find quieter areas with places to sit and rest. read more

Del Mar Fairgrounds - Fair fun - Stadiums & Arenas Near Me - Del Mar, California

I was extremely disappointed with Del Mar Fairgrounds Coastal Christmas. This is top-tier pricing across the board--entry, parking, ice skating, wine tasting--yet the experience feels anything but premium. The decorations were shockingly cheap and random: dinosaurs, flamingos, and crabs passed off as Christmas décor, wrinkled fake grass, flimsy string lights, and barely any real holiday spirit. Honestly, many residential neighborhoods do a far better job with their front-yard decorations than what was presented here. The skating area was especially underwhelming--fake ice, a fake tree in the middle, and a setup that felt more like a neglected lounge than a festive rink. If you've ever been to the Coronado ice rink, the comparison is night and day; this felt poorly executed and low-effort, despite being priced as a "prestige" Del Mar event. Add in broken or uninspired lights, cheap toy machines scattered around to squeeze out more money, and décor set up in a parking lot--it's just not worth it. Save your money and skip this one. Never again read more

Attended the Cat Show at this venue, this weekend. First off, parking was $20, and they only take Credit Cards for payment!?? I wanted to pay cash, but nope! The fairgrounds were well kept. Parking was tight and a nightmare. Lots of people. But the areas were clean. I had a great time at the cat show, but their food was $$$$$$$$! So, I skipped the food, and left early. Went somewhere else to get lunch. Somewhat of a great experience, overall. read more

Loved the treats and upkeep Year after year giving great shops lots of places to walk to and small interesting add-ons like the garden and I think spitting contest near the barn area I believe was sponsored maybe by Humane Society but they had goats and chickens I believe And then in another shed, it had I think small businesses area, a strawberry specialized shop and a small table of different types of soaps, and maybe some baths soap, and then I believe, honey and other unique goods in a small area in the other entrance near that Humane Society pets adoptable cages, and the snakes room near the entrance (take a right into the building when you walk in walk through it take a right and walk towards perhaps the tunnels or the kid rides and on their way there is an entrance to this area I believe. I like how they spruce it up in tiny ways every year with their Thing and small additions . I tried some trial alcohol. I believe from one of the shops near the car dealerships and I'm just not a fan of alcohol in general, but it was a nice sample. The person I was traveling with said it was really good. I got a hotdog from one of the places that have the ball that goes high up into the air with two people strap to it like a bungee cord type ride, there was not really busy and yet it took them a good five minutes we were watching as they were getting my hotdog, which wasn't even on the grill or fresh. It had been sitting with other hotdogs in the heat. The cashier ended up getting my order themselves because the other people who were doing all the cooking seem to just be focused on maybe cleaning the grill or something and not paying attention and I think the cashier just felt bad for us as we watched. read more

Love the San Diego county fair, I have been coming here since I was 9 years old. It holds a special place in my heart just because it brings back a lot of good memories. I mostly come here for the turkey legs. If I see something that I want to try, I will definitely do that. It's not cheap to come to the fair though, I spent more than I wanted but it's ok. The fair only happens once a year anyways. I love that they have the CA Lottery there too, it's my go to place once I enter the fair. With that said, I hope everyone gets a chance to go to the fair this year. read more

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We've enjoyed the Del Mar Fairgrounds for over two decades. When we first moved to San Diego, we lived in Del Mar, a sort walk to the Fairgrounds. We went every year to the San Diego County Fair and the thoroughbred horse racing at the Del Mar Racetrack on the Fairgrounds property. But the Fairgrounds offers so much more. All year long, there are expos, concerts, and other events. We continue to visit the Fairgrounds for all of the above, but the price for parking is outrageous. Also, traffic control during the Fair and racing season leaves a lot to be desired. The 1930s Mission Revival architecture of the primary Fairgrounds buildings is quite attractive. read more

We're here every year for the fair. It's usually a hit or miss with the crowd, parking, etc. For all the years that I can remember it's always been over packed, over crowded, takes hours to get in, and hours to get out. However, this year I went on a Friday it was surprisingly kind of dead I want to say. There was still a reasonable amount of people but not as busy as I remember every year. No lines to get in or out at all and the crowd was not packed. I loved it this year! Your average fair foods and rides and of course you can expect everything to be overpriced but it's for the experience. Something to do if you're local in the summertime from June-July 4th and also somewhere to enjoy the fireworks. read more

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I haven't been here for the actual fair in ages, but I have been here to run the La Jolla Half Marathon on an annual basis. This venue has been more than adequate to handle a medium sized race. They have us park in the dirt lot on the other side of Jimmy Durante Blvd. You can get to the fairgrounds by accessing the pedestrian underpass. The start line for the race is at the O'Brien gate. They'll set up a long line of portapotties for runners to use prior to the start of the race. read more

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I came here for the Cat Show. There was plenty of parking. They had food trucks in the front and the building was very spacious. All the employees were very friendly. The bathroom line can build up, but they also have bathrooms located outside of the building that are accessible. read more

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Entering the parking lot was a bit overwhelming but we had paid for preferred parking -- which was nice. We parked fairly close to the entrance of where everyone walks into the park. The process to get in was easy. Once inside the atmosphere was charged with energy. It was our first time and we had no idea how to bet. So we got drinks, walked about, and observed. We decided to bet. Going up to the window, watching those in line before us, the clerk made it easy. The horn sounded so we found seats. We actually won $11 since we bet $5. We risked it at the machines to bet this time. It took a minute but we got it. Essentially we did that several more times and had a few more ciders. Here's why 4 stars. The screen can be really hard to see for a vertically challenged person. It would be helpful if there were more screens in the stands. They have lots of speakers hanging but no screens. Putting some in various places, by the speakers, would help to enhance the experience for vertically challenged persons. After a day of fun we walked away with $40 which meant we won more than we lost. We had a blast horse and people watching. I would go again! read more

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Not worth it. Takes less than 30min to explore the whole place. Too big of a place with too little decorations. Xmas lights felt like it was rushed. Only good spot was the first 2 spots in the front. Food in the food court tasted old that was drained with old oil. read more

This is a fantastic spot for family or friends! Parking is convenient at Canyon Crest Academy, where you can catch a free shuttle directly to the fairgrounds--it's the best way to avoid traffic. We really enjoyed the petting zoo and pig races! - foos is always good and fun summer ambiance read more

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My friends and I attended the "East Meets West New Orleans Festival" at the Del Mar Fairgrounds/Race Tracks on Saturday 27Aug2022 and had a fantastic time! $32 granted us access to the festival, 5 cocktails/drinks, and a booklet for those who wished to bet on the horse races. Our choices for drinks were limited to hurricanes, daiquiris, and beers. There was a wide assortment of vendors selling food from the south, like gumbo, jambalaya, po' boy sandwiches, fried oysters, shrimp creole, fried frog legs, beignets, etc. I had the shrimp creole and it was delicious! They had a live band with an open area for dancing, a parade which we participated in, crafts center for making funky hats, and various vendors selling jewelry, beads, hats, etc. It was very fun and festive! Standard parking was $10 and valet was $25. We opted for standard parking and rode the trolley that dropped us off directly in front of the festival entrance. read more

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Besides the very long vehicle lines to get into the fairgrounds and the parking debacle. One would think it was their first time doing the fair but every day I went the same drama was there. Once inside it was quite fun! Food prices were quite expensive, many items delicious though. Saw the flower competition which was really cool! Didn't do any rides but walked around looking for weird foods. :) For sure will come back next year. read more

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Love the fair I wouldn't miss it for the world. Food is delicious and definitely delicious. So fun for the family. Or to go by yourself. I have done it many times though the years. Meet friends and meet new people. Go on the 4 th of July for a solute to America. read more

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This year's (Oct. 2025) Harvest Festival was underwhelming! My husband and I have attended the festival for probably more than 20 years and have always enjoyed the shopping and sampling of different foods, too. This year there were less than half the usual number of vendors. Cost of parking was $20 unless you prepaid $16 online. Luckily we were among the first 100 customers, so we got free admission. But even with free admission, it wasn't worth driving from Chula Vista to find so few vendors. We won't go next year if they don't increase the sellers. Sad. read more

The fairgrounds are beautiful when lit up at night. Extremely spacious with abundance space for all the rides and stands in spite of the massive crowds. Perfect weather being next to the coast. read more

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I have been to the fairgrounds numerous times, with the majority of the times being for the fair in June. I have also been for classic car shows, a Halloween haunted hay ride, a holiday lights drive through, and to see the horses race during racing season. The fairgrounds are in a prime spot in Del Mar located right next to the Ocean so it makes for some great views. However the traffic congestion in this area around Via de la Valle and on the 5 freeway during fair and race season is unbearable. I really wish they could come up with a better solution as I have to drive through this mess on the way home from work and it adds at least 20-30 minutes to my commute or more if there is an accident or backup. For the fair you can park at several lots and bus or shuttle in, or walk in so at least that helps a little bit. If you do go during fair season get there early so you can get a good parking spot or bus in and avoid the congestion and hassle. The fairgrounds themselves are typical fair grounds. Pretty standard and compare to all the other fairgrounds I have ever been to. The location and view are the only things that make this one stand out. read more

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