MONTEREY, CA. – August 19, 2025 – From Grammy-winning legends to tribute acts that keep the party going, the Monterey County Fair is bringing five nights of show-stopping entertainment to the Payton Stage, all free with Fair admission. The 2025 Monterey County Fair is set to open its gates August 28 – September 1, bringing five full days of music, rodeo action, carnival thrills, and family traditions.
This year’s Payton Stage lineup is packed with crowd favorites. On Thursday, August 28 at 7:30 PM, the Fair kicks off with Grammy-award winning reggae icons Steel Pulse. Friday, August 29 brings beach vibes with Kenny & Luke’s Country Beach Party, followed by Journey Revisited on Saturday, August 30. Sunday, August 31 lights up with the dazzling Selena Super Show, a Selena Quintanilla Tribute, and the Fair wraps up with Bay Area party band The Cheeseballs on Monday, September 1.
Alongside the concerts, the Flying U Rodeo delivers nonstop action with performances Friday and Saturday at 6:30 PM, plus two shows on Sunday at 3:00 and 6:30 PM. New this year and located in the King City Room, All Creatures Racing brings even more barnyard fun to the Fair.
Special Fair Days add even more ways to enjoy: Opening Day, August 28, is free for seniors 62+ and veterans; Friday, August 29 is free for military members; and Monday, September 1 is Kids Day, free for children ages 6-12. Children 5 and under receive free admission every day. (Valid ID required for veterans, seniors, and military.)
With world-class entertainment, local tradition, and something for everyone, the Monterey County Fair remains the Central Coast’s most beloved Labor Day weekend celebration.
ABOUT THE MONTEREY COUNTY FAIR & EVENT CENTER
The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is a premier event center set on 22 oak-studded acres with ample parking. It is a state-owned multi-use facility that features four large banquet rooms, two outdoor concert venues, and a variety of outdoor and indoor cost-effective sites ideal for all types of events. It is home of the annual award-winning Monterey County Fair, host to many major and private events on the Central Coast, and the site of the Monterey Bay Race Place, a Satellite Wagering Facility.