First-Timer’s Guide to the Marin County Fair

By Megan Eileen McDonough

 

Pack your bags! The annual Marin County Fair is only two months away, and we've got the lowdown on this year's top attractions. From crafts and candy to markets and music, here's your ultimate guide to fair fun in the California sun.

Plans are underway for the first in-person Marin County Fair since summer 2019, an outdoor-only event with the theme So Happy Together! from June 30 through July 4, 2022.

The 2022 fair will focus on outdoor headline entertainment, performers roaming the grounds such as jugglers, unicyclists, and stilt walkers, and interactive art experiences for fans of all ages. Returning fair favorites will include traditional carnival rides, the Global Marketplace, food and drinks, and fireworks over the Civic Center’s Lagoon Park. The always-popular competitive exhibits program will take place online as it did in 2021.

 

Top Attractions

Kids and kids at heart will get their fill of adventure this year, with spectacular rides and nightly fireworks displays. Among the fair's most popular carnival rides is the Energy Storm, which takes riders for a daring spin through the air. The Yo Yo is another crowd favorite since passengers get to rise through the air and experience the sensation of flying. For something a little less heart-pumping, take a ride on the Giant Wheel, which towers 100 feet into the air at its highest point. Younger children will enjoy the Looney Tooter Train that takes riders around a circular track.

 

Concerts

Wait for it... Headline Concerts will be announced and Reserved Gold Circle Seats will go on sale May 16th! Soon to be announced is the lineup as to who will be slated to perform at this year's Marin County Fair. it's sure to be a show to remember. 

 

Competitive Exhibits

Feeling a spark of genius coming on? Then make sure to participate in some of this year's competitive exhibits. Going off of the 2016 theme "75 Years – What a Ride! 75th Marin County Fair," fairgoers can channel their creative side. Try your hand at decorating a merry-go-round or carousel animal or design a carnival ride or replica. Kids might enjoy making a treasure chest or adorning a hat. Have an eye for photography? There are eight photography awards for the taking, including Best Faces of Marin and Best Urban Marin Scene.

 

Global Marketplace

The Global Marketplace is exactly what it sounds like—a market filled to the brim with products and produce from around the world. It's a one-stop-shop for the whole family. Depending on your interests, browse through colorful artwork or take in the scene while munching on fresh snacks. Being green is a top priority for fair organizers. In continuing the fair's legacy of being "The Greenest County Fair on Earth," all vendors will use biodegradable or reusable plates, bags and more. Come hungry! Even with the 120,000 fairgoers around, there's enough grub for everyone.

 

For all you need to plan your Marin County vacation, visit the Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau’s website or Facebook page.