By Gina Yarbrough
Del Mar, CA–The San Diego County Fair is rolling out an Opening Day deal, offering $5 admission for anyone who arrives before 5 p.m. at the fairgrounds.
Fair officials say the limited-time discount is intended to encourage early attendance as the annual event kicks off at the Del Mar Fairgrounds on Wednesday.
The public can enter the fair between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to receive the discount. From 5 p.m. until gates close at 10 p.m., regular Wednesday admission prices will apply. Children age 5 and under are free every day of the fair’s 20-day run. Parking is sold separately.
Daily admission to the fair includes access to museum-quality exhibits and displays, animals, demonstrations, sponsor activations, shopping halls, live entertainment and music on multiple stages, 12 hours of a festive fair atmosphere.
Guests can enjoy Pepsi Pay‑One‑Price wristbands for unlimited rides until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, take in the Charity Fair Horse Show, and end the night with a 9 p.m. Blue Öyster Cult performance as part of the Chevrolet Paddock Concert Series.
“Our goal every year is to ensure our Fair is the best value for San Diegans’ entertainment dollar,” said Becky Bartling, the CEO of the 22nd District Agricultural Association, which produces the Fair. “This special Opening Day promotion is part of this effort and provides fairgoers with an opportunity to kick off the Fair and start their summer with a day filled with excitement, education, entertainment and fun.”
The promotion is part of the fair’s broader push to offer more savings while still delivering a memorable experience. In recent years, officials have expanded a slate of popular deals, including a season pass, $15 value meals, “Foodie Friday” discounts, family packages, military and first‑responder savings through GovX, discounted tickets at Albertsons/Vons, the “Fair Tripper” admission‑plus‑train bundle, and early‑bird pricing on admission, parking, rides, and games.
A full list of deals, discounts, and promotions can be found at the San Diego County Fair website.
