Monterey, CA — September 2, 2025 — The Monterey County Fair concluded its five-day run on Labor Day, welcoming thousands of guests while highlighting both the challenges and successes of this year’s event.
Attendance across the Fair reflected mixed results. Opening Day on Thursday saw a 21% increase compared to 2024, with strong momentum carried into Friday, which rose 3% year-over-year. Monday’s closing day delivered another significant boost with a 14% attendance increase. Saturday and Sunday, however, saw lower turnout due to the Fair’s early closure on Saturday evening and a cap of 12,000 patrons on Sunday for health and safety reasons. Overall attendance closed 3% lower than in 2024.
Financial performance reflected a similar split. Carnival revenue finished 12% below last year, but vendor concessions rose 4%, underscoring consistent demand for food and merchandise even with slightly reduced overall attendance.
The 2025 Junior Livestock Auction was another bright spot, raising a total gross of $544,679 to benefit local 4-H and FFA youth, not including after-auction add-ons that are still being finalized. A centerpiece of the auction, the 2025 Heritage Animal raised by Hollister High School graduate Callie Marci, sold for $310 per pound at 75 pounds to Chris and Sabu Shake, amounting to $23,250. Proceeds from the Heritage Animal sale go to the Monterey County Fair Heritage Foundation, which directs the funds toward fairground improvements and scholarships.
“The Fair continues to be an economic driver for our region, supporting local youth, small businesses, and the fairgrounds itself,” said Kelly Violini-Rodoni, CEO of the Monterey County Fair. “While we faced unique challenges this year, the overall enthusiasm and support from the community reinforce the value of this tradition.”
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.
Monterey County Fair & Event Center, Public Relations Coordinator
Tayler Baldwin
media@montereycountyfair.com
(831) 601-0869