Events at Fairplex, Pomona

About Fairplex

Fairplex, also known as the Los Angeles County Fairgrounds, is a vast 543-acre event complex in Pomona, California (www.wikiwand.com). It has been home to the annual L.A. County Fair since 1922 (www.wikiwand.com). The County of Los Angeles owns the site, but an independent non-profit (the L.A. County Fair Association) operates and reinvests the fair’s revenues into the facility (www.wikiwand.com). In recent years Fairplex sees well over 3 million visitors a year (www.eventective.com). Its facilities include roughly 325,000 sq ft of indoor exhibit halls (www.wikiwand.com), an 8,000-capacity concrete-and-steel Grandstand built in 1932 (blogs.fairplex.com), and numerous outdoor plazas and fairgrounds. Notable on-site attractions include the Millard Sheets Art Center (a 12,000-sq-ft WPA-era Fine Arts building by architect Claud Beelman, now a Smithsonian-affiliated gallery) (www.wikiwand.com), the NHRA Motorsports Museum, and historic barns and expo halls. Together, these multi-use buildings host agriculture, arts, and entertainment events year-round (www.wikiwand.com). The Fairplex has deep local roots: the very first L.A. County Fair was held here in 1922 and drew nearly 50,000 people (imagesofpomona.blogspot.com), and today even special events like auto shows and college expos are common. (For scale, the 2024 County Fair ran 16 days and drew about 787,800 guests (blogs.fairplex.com).)

Events and Programming

Fairplex is active nearly every week with a wide variety of events. Its most famous annual event is the L.A. County Fair (now held in May), which combines carnival rides, livestock exhibits, games and nightly concerts. Each fair runs ~16 days, and recent lineups have ranged from classic rock (Cheap Trick, War, O’Jays) to country (Chris Young, Chris Janson) to Latin artists (Los Tucanes de Tijuana, Los Ángeles Azules) (blogs.fairplex.com) (blogs.fairplex.com). (Concert nights are part of the Fair and include fair admission (blogs.fairplex.com).)

• Concert Series: Fairplex hosts dozens of live shows annually. Besides the County Fair’s acoustic and rock concerts, there are standalone music festivals (like NextFest LA) and themed nights (country, Latin, etc.). For example, the 2025 fair’s announced lineup included acts like WAR, Shaggy, Cheap Trick, and Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán (blogs.fairplex.com) (blogs.fairplex.com). Concerts may be held on the Grandstand or (during renovations) on the field with temporary seating (blogs.fairplex.com) (blogs.fairplex.com).
• Motorsports and Racing: Fairplex is home to the NHRA drag strip (“In-N-Out Dragstrip”). It hosts the opening and closing rounds of the national NHRA drag racing season, drawing tens of thousands of fans. The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum on-site celebrates drag racing history (www.wikiwand.com). Historically, the adjacent Barrett’s Equine Center (with a 10,000-seat grandstand) hosted horse racing and auctions (www.wikiwand.com), though live racing has ceased. Today the spirit of horse racing lives on at The Derby Room sports bar (off-track betting and races on TV) (blogs.fairplex.com).
• Trade & Hobby Expos: Hall and arena spaces regularly host trade shows, conventions, and hobby expos of all kinds. Recent examples include the Asian & Latino cultural expos, craft fairs (like “Pinners Conference & Expo” for crafts/DIY (blogs.fairplex.com)), gold prospecting shows (Gold & Treasure Show) (blogs.fairplex.com), pet expos (Reptile Show), and holiday attractions (e.g. Elf on the Shelf Holiday Journey). Many seasonal fairs have their own mini-festivals (Oktoberfest in fall with German music and food, Unity Day LA fireworks around July 4). The variety of events means there is nearly always something happening on-site.
• Special Events: Fairplex fields dozens of one-off events: car shows (Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show monthly), marathons & runs, charity festivals, and cultural celebrations (e.g. Lunar New Year fairs). It even served as the Pomona Assembly Center during WWII; a plaque now commemorates that history (www.wikiwand.com). Looking ahead, Fairplex has been selected as the official venue for Olympic cricket in 2028 (blogs.fairplex.com) – a rare global event marking cricket’s return after over 100 years.

The events at Fairplex cover everything from blue-collar trade shows to high-culture collaborations. (For instance, the Fair’s Millard Sheets Art Center has hosted traveling LACMA exhibits (blogs.fairplex.com).) Between fairs and expos, entertainment is scheduled on most weekends and many weekdays – concerts, auto shows, wine competitions, military shows, and more. There’s truly something for all ages and interests.

Tickets and Booking

Most Fairplex events sell tickets online or at the Fairplex box office. For the LA County Fair, tickets go on sale in advance (admission prices depend on date). In 2024, advance tickets ranged roughly $10–$25 for adults (cheapest early weeks, peak dates $25) (www.timeout.com); kids and seniors were about $10–$12. Paying at the gate was $30 for adults that year (www.timeout.com). Concert ticket prices vary by artist and seating (many in the $40–$100 range for national acts). Importantly, Fair concert tickets include same-day fair admission (blogs.fairplex.com) (so you don’t need a separate fair ticket for that day). Expensive or popular shows often sell out, so the best strategy is early purchase: sign up for official fair/venue newsletters or follow announcements. On-site box offices (usually open daily during big events) sell remaining tickets, but don’t count on door sales for sold-out nights. Some events offer VIP or reserved seating upgrades.

For example, the 2025 Fair’s concert series tickets went on sale after the lineup announcement in March (blogs.fairplex.com). Tips: Buy fair passes (daily or multi-day) a few weeks early to save a few dollars. Keep in mind later-day tickets cost more, and that concerts count as fair entry. If planning a tradeshow or convention visit (e.g. Asian Expo, Gun Show), check their specific advance ticket options, as some have packet deals or memberships.

Seating and Layout

Fairplex has no single “arena” but several venues. The Grandstand (center of the grounds) historically seated about 8,000 in concrete bleachers (blogs.fairplex.com). In 2025 it was closed for renovation, so Fair concerts were moved to a new field setup with portable seating (blogs.fairplex.com). In that layout, the stage faced the infield and fans sat on ground-level chairs or steel bleachers on the field (blogs.fairplex.com). Reviews noted this field venue had comfortable sightlines and good sound. Going forward, check each event’s setup: some still use the Grandstand seating (if open), others build special stands on the infield.

• Fair Concerts: When held in the Grandstand, seats are numbered bleachers. In the field arrangement (used 2025), there are both floor sections (chairs on the grass) and tiered bleachers farther back (blogs.fairplex.com). Always review the venue map – front-center seats have the best view, whereas side or far-spread seats can limit perspective. Ear plugs are a good idea in front rows, and a hat or shade gear helps on hot days.
• General Admission Shows: Many expos use the carpeted halls or a simple stage-and-floor. For example, basketball shows or monster trucks use the Grandstand floor area without fixed seating. In those cases visitors may stand or bring chairs as allowed. Family events (like the County Fair) are largely open, with no seats except at food/ride lines and certain animal barns.
• VIP and Boxes: The Grandstand once had a four-story Clubhouse added in 1964 (used for VIP viewing), and some events still designate VIP areas in front of the stage or in exclusive lounges (like The Derby Room’s patio). If a VIP upgrade is offered (for concerts or corporate events), it generally means a marked-off ground area near the stage.
• Sound Basics: Acoustic quality varies. The infield setup has proved surprisingly good for concerts, as the speakers can be aimed across the open space. The older grandstand had concrete sides that could cause echoes. If possible, choosing somewhere near the center of the crowd (not the far corners) and not at the extreme rear will usually give the clearest audio. Avoid sitting directly under large overhangs or next to big pillars (for indoor stages) if you can.

Getting There and Parking

Location: Fairplex is at 1101 W. McKinley Ave in Pomona (www.wikiwand.com), at the corner of W. McKinley and White Avenues. It’s about 30 miles east of downtown Los Angeles (www.wikiwand.com). Major routes: take the I-10 Freeway toward San Bernardino and exit at Fairplex Drive or White Ave (www.timeout.com), then follow signs to the Fairplex gates. From other directions, Pomona is also accessible via the I-210 and I-57 Freeways.

Driving and Parking: There is abundant surface parking surrounding the grounds (west side of White Ave and on the east side of the Fair). For big events like the County Fair, general parking fees have been around $20 (advance purchase) or $25 (pay on arrival) (www.timeout.com). Paid lots are clearly marked; attendants will direct you to available rows. There are multiple entry gates (Gate 1–8 etc.), but Gate 17 on McKinley Ave is the main entry point. Ample handicap spaces are near the front of lots and by entrances. If lots on McKinley fill up, some events open overflow lots farther out with shuttle buses.

Public Transit: Fairplex is on the Metrolink map. On peak event days (especially the county fair), the San Bernardino Line stops at the special Fairplex station on the north side of the property (www.wikiwand.com). Metrolink runs free shuttles on fair weekends from the Pomona-North/Covina platform to the main entrance (www.timeout.com). During weekdays or off-season days, the nearest Metrolink stop is Pomona–North (Med-Street). From there, take Foothill Transit bus #197 toward the Fairplex (it stops at White Ave near Gate 17) (www.aaexpo.com). Alternatively, Pomona–Downtown on the Riverside Line plus Foothill #291 also goes to the Fairgrounds region (www.aaexpo.com). For commuters, Los Angeles County even runs a free Park & Ride lot at 1810 Gillette Road (just north of the Fairplex) with 553 spaces (www.wikiwand.com). Express bus (Foothill 699) connects that lot to downtown LA each weekday (www.wikiwand.com), or riders can transfer to local routes (like #197) into Pomona.

Rideshare and Taxis: Uber/Lyft can drop off passengers at the main entrance loops (near Gate 2 or 17). A recommended pickup spot is near the Sheraton parking lot across McKinley, which gives drivers room to circle. After events, rideshare pick-up can take longer, so have patience. City taxis and shuttles also serve the area, but service is sparse late at night.

Inside the Venue

Entry and Security: All visitors must pass through security screening. Expect metal detectors and bag checks. Fairplex enforces standard policies: no weapons, no large bags or coolers. In practice, only small clear bags (roughly 12″×12″×6″) are allowed, and all bags are searched. Outside alcohol is strictly prohibited (only alcohol sold on-site is allowed by law). Before the fair or any event, it’s wise to check the specific organizer’s rules (some shows allow small fold-up camp chairs; others do not).

Atmosphere: Depending on the event, the vibe can range from family-carnival fun to concert-day excitement. The Fairgrounds are busy and festive during the county fair (think midway games, petting zoos, rides, food stands, and live music stages). Between events the site is calmer, often like a convention center with empty halls. Expect a lot of walking – grounds are flat but sprawling, so wear comfortable shoes. Cell reception is generally good outdoors, but may get spotty inside large halls or on the east side. Free public Wi-Fi is not typically provided, so rely on your own device data.

Food & Drink: Fairplex offers many food options on-site. During fairs and expos you’ll find dozens of concession stands and trucks. Carnival classics (corn dogs, turkey legs, cotton candy) are ubiquitous. Recent fairs introduced trendy treats like Korean-style corn dogs, SPAM fries, and even a “pickle split” (a salt-cured pickle with pineapple ice cream) (blogs.fairplex.com). For full meals, there are taco stands, barbecue, fried chicken, Pizza, and more. Outside of fair season, expo halls may have snack bars or catered food visitors can buy. On-site bars and restaurants: the Sheraton Fairplex Suites (attached hotel) has its own restaurant (McKinley’s Grille), and near Gate 12 on White Ave the on-site Derby Room sports bar serves pub fare alongside horse-racing screens (blogs.fairplex.com). Most events also offer bottled water and soft drinks for sale (bring cash or use mobile pay – electronic payments are widely accepted).

Amenities: Restrooms are plentiful—permanent restroom buildings are near each expo hall and midway area. Portable toilets supplement these during large fairs or outdoor concerts. Family restrooms and nursing rooms may be available in main halls during the county fair. Drinking fountains are installed in some areas, though lines can form. ATMs/credit card kiosks are typically placed at exits of major halls for guests. Merchandise booths sell souvenirs (T-shirts, hats, local crafts) at fairs and big shows; touring acts have their own merch table at concert nights. Coat check is usually only offered at indoor exhibits or cold-weather events. For lost items or medical needs, first-aid stations (marked as such) are staffed during large events.

Service and Accessibility: Fairplex is ADA compliant. Most parking lots have marked accessible spaces near ramps. All newer buildings and stages have ramps or lifts. Wheelchair seating is available in the Grandstand and many halls (ask a gate attendant for assistance). Mobility-impaired visitors can also use the free shuttle that runs between the outer lots and main entrances, if available. Sign language interpreters or assisted-listening devices are typically not provided for casual visitors, but guests needing accommodations can contact Fairplex administration before an event. In short, the complex is designed for large crowds and is largely navigable by visitors of all abilities.

Nearby Amenities

Fairplex sits on the edge of Pomona’s business district, so dining and lodging are not far away. Immediately next door is the Sheraton Fairplex Suites & Conference Center (601 W. McKinley Ave). Its on-site restaurant, McKinley’s Grille, serves farm-to-table American cuisine and is a convenient pre-show dining option (www.concerthotels.com). (Its location is just 1.6 miles from the Fairplex (www.concerthotels.com).) Within a few minutes’ drive you’ll find dozens of other restaurants: Mexican taquerias, barbecue joints, Asian and Indian eateries, and cafes. Two local favorites are Coco Palm (a Cuban/Latin American restaurant at 1600 Fairplex Dr) and the Pomona Valley Mining Company steakhouse at 1777 Gillette Rd – both get high marks (www.concerthotels.com) for quality. Pomona Old Town (about 3 miles south) offers a walkable entertainment district with pubs and casual eateries if you need a drink or after-show snack.

For lodging, the Sheraton is the primary hotel attached to Fairplex. Other chain and locally-run hotels (Holiday Inn, Best Western, etc.) are located within 3–5 miles along the I-10 and McKinley corridors. If you’re flying in, Ontario International Airport (ONT) is about 10 miles to the east; connections from LAX or Orange County airports typically require a car or rideshare. For late-night rides, note that while Foothill Transit buses end by mid-evening, Uber/Lyft and local cabs do serve Pomona (though they can be scarce on very late return trips, so plan accordingly).

Also within walking distance (heading south on White Ave) are bank ATMs and several gas stations/fast-food outlets if you need a quick snack or cash before entering. Nearby shopping centers (around Garey/6th) have grocery and fast-casual options. In summary, visitors have plenty of dining and hotel choices just outside the gates, but the Sheraton’s own amenities make arriving and departing very convenient.

What Makes This Venue Special

Several factors give Fairplex its unique character. First, its history and architecture set it apart. It began as a 43-acre farm field bought by Pomona in 1922 (imagesofpomona.blogspot.com) and today still features many historic structures. The Fine Arts building (now Millard Sheets Center) was built in 1937 by noted architect Claud Beelman (www.wikiwand.com). In 1932 a new concrete-and-steel grandstand was erected, combined with a 12,000-sq-ft exhibit hall (imagesofpomona.blogspot.com) – that same grandstand (renamed Fairplex Park) is still in use. There’s even a WPA-era administration building (designed by Peter Ficker) that served as the original fair entrance in the 1920s (imagesofpomona.blogspot.com). (A local history blog notes that the first County Fair here drew 49,461 visitors (imagesofpomona.blogspot.com).)

Second, Fairplex has a diverse, down-to-earth culture. Its annual County Fair is beloved by generations – families time it like a tradition. It combines the classic “folk festival” vibe (barnyard animals, amateur contests, quilt displays) with blockbuster concerts and modern attractions. In recent fairs around 80% of attendees cited the food, carnival rides, and animals as highlights (blogs.fairplex.com). Concurrently, college clubs, veteran organizations, and local artists use the space during off-season, so the project never feels elitist or exclusive. The presence of both a Smithsonian-affiliated art center and a gritty drag strip under one roof exemplifies this blend – you might go see a fine art exhibit in the morning and by afternoon watch a Top Fuel dragster roar down the track.

Third, Fairplex’s cultural impact and innovation is notable. It’s one of the few U.S. venues to land an Olympic event – it will host cricket in LA2028 (blogs.fairplex.com), introducing a sport beloved by 2.5 billion people worldwide and uniting diverse communities. Fairplex also pioneers local events: the Race and Rodeo traditions managed to continue (e.g. Paul Fordicio, the famous rodeo announcer, worked here). Each year it hosts national competitions in wine, spirits, olive oil and dairy, bringing global attention to Pomona’s agriculture programs. The facility’s non-profit mission means profits are put back into education (e.g. the Fairplex schools and career training center), so it truly feeds the local community. Its general-store atmosphere – blending county-fair soul with big-city amenities – keeps both artists and audiences coming back. As Fairplex CEO Walter Marquez put it: “Our campus is perfect … it offers everything from a hotel to parking to open space,” making Pomona a proud host for events like the Summer Olympics (blogs.fairplex.com). In short, this venue is special because it’s a historic community hub that continually reinvents itself while staying connected to Pomona’s roots.

Visitor Tips and Information

Planning a visit? Here are some quick tips and answers to common questions to make your Fairplex experience smooth and enjoyable.