The Maricopa County Fair returns to the Arizona State Fairgrounds April 3-5 and April 9-12, offering a weekend of live entertainment, carnival rides, and classic fair food. With admission covering all shows and attractions, the fair promises fun for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents.
Tickets are $10 per person, with children 7 and under admitted free, and unlimited ride wristbands available daily for $42 on-site or $35 through pre-sale before April 2. Gates open at 11 a.m. daily, with an early 10 a.m. opening on April 10.
This year’s festivities kick off with Easter-themed events from April 3-5, including Easter egg hunts for all ages, prizes ranging from bikes to carnival rides, and even a high-stakes hunt for adults with cash prizes up to $3,000. Guests can also take photos with the Easter Bunny.
High-octane thrills return April 10-12 with the monster truck shows, headlined by MEGASAURUS, a car-eating, fire-breathing mechanical marvel performing jaw-dropping stunts that have become a fair tradition.
Special Saturdays add extra excitement: on April 4, kids can meet their heroes at the Mutant Ninja Turtles Meet & Greet, and on April 11, the Golden K-Pop Party brings music, dance, and photo opportunities celebrating global K-Pop culture. Visitors can also catch the fan-favorite Splash Sea Lion Show, where rescued sea lions perform tricks and interactive demonstrations, or enjoy dazzling magicians and jugglers throughout the fairgrounds.
The fair’s agricultural roots are on display as well, with livestock exhibits showcasing cattle, goats, sheep, and poultry, highlighting the dedication of Arizona’s youth while celebrating the state’s farming community. Combined with classic carnival rides, games, fair treats, and local shopping opportunities, the Maricopa County Fair offers a full-day experience for families.
“The Maricopa County Fair is where excitement meets community,” executive director Karen Searle said. “From sea lions wowing the crowd and monster trucks tearing through the arena, to live entertainment and classic fair treats, it’s a place where families make memories that last a lifetime. We’re proud to make that experience fun and affordable for everyone.”
Admission is free until 3 p.m. on select days, including April 9, which also features $2 carnival rides and a canned food drive benefiting St. Mary’s Food Bank. Seniors 55 and older receive free entry on April 10. For more information, visit maricopacountyfair.org.
