MONTEREY COUNTY — 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 Aug. 28 to Sept. 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, Aug. 28 at 7:30 p.m., the Fair kicks off with Grammy-award winning reggae icons Steel Pulse.
Friday, Aug. 29, brings beach vibes with Kenny & Luke’s Country Beach Party, followed by Journey Revisited on Saturday, Aug. 30. Sunday, Aug. 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, Sept. 1.
Alongside the concerts, the Flying U Rodeo delivers nonstop action with performances Friday and Saturday at 6:30 p.m., plus two shows on Sunday at 3 and 6:30 p.m. 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, Aug. 28, is free for seniors ages 62-plus and veterans; Friday, Aug. 29, is free for military members; and Monday, Sept. 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.
For tickets and full details, visit montereycountyfair.com.
