The California Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles is one of the most anticipated events every year! Held annually towards the end of July, the Mid-State Fair brings world-famous entertainers and down-home food & games for twelve days of fun for everyone. 

Hailed as “The Biggest Little Fair Anywhere!”, the Mid-State Fair first opened in 1946 as the San Luis Obispo County Fair. Since then, it’s grown in scope and reputation and has drawn everyone from Tom Petty and Aerosmith to Cardi B. and Justin Bieber to the main stage for incredible, rousing performances. It’s a local and visitor favorite alike, so make it a must in your summer plans!

Fair Rides at the CA Mid-State Fair

2025 Michelob ULTRA Stage Headliners

This year’s lineup is one of the strongest yet, featuring a mix of rising stars, country legends, rock icons, and genre-bending favorites. Whether you’re planning your visit around a specific headliner or just soaking up all Paso has to offer during fair season, these performances are a summer essential.

  • Flo Rida – July 16
    Get ready for party anthems like “Low,” “Wild Ones,” and “Club Can’t Handle Me.” A high-energy kickoff to the week!

  • Jon Pardi – July 17
    A blend of traditional and modern country from this California native—bring your boots.

  • 311 with special guest Iration – July 18
    Expect a genre-bending night of alt-rock, reggae, funk, and laid-back island vibes.

  • Cody Johnson – July 19
    Powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a must-see show for country fans.

  • Viva La Quebradita – July 20
    A vibrant celebration of Mexican regional music and dance culture.

  • Red Clay Strays – July 21
    Southern rock meets Americana with raw energy and rising star appeal.

  • David Lee Roth – July 22
    Legendary Van Halen frontman bringing classic rock hits and big-stage nostalgia.

  • Bailey Zimmerman – July 23
    One of country’s breakout new voices with an emotionally charged show.

  • Keith Urban – July 24
    Grammy-winning superstar closing out the week with guitar-driven country-pop.

The California Mid-State Fair might be best known for live music, with multiple performances on several stages every evening. The entertainment lineup is always stellar, so be sure to get tickets well in advance because they sell out quickly! The Michelob ULTRA Stage draws some of the biggest names from all pop music genres including country, hip-hop, and classic rock. For a more laid-back experience, the Frontier Stage has concerts with seating on a first-come, first-serve basis every night of the Fair. The Mission Square is another stage with free live music every night, also available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Or, join the fiesta at the La Cantina with live country, cumbia, and romantic songs played throughout the evening in Spanish and English. And, the new Island Stage is sure to bring those sultry tropical vibes with live Caribbean and reggae music all night long.

Even with so much world class entertainment, the California Mid-State Fair remains very local at its heart with a huge range of delicious food for all preferences. Fair classics are in abundance, as are local pop-up vendors offering creative dishes from local ingredients. Don’t miss the chance to taste your way through the best homemade apple pies and cast your vote for the winner. Arrive early for a hearty pancake breakfast alongside scores of local families bonding over batter and butter. And, if you dare, enter the watermelon eating contest and try to beat the pros!

Mid State Fair

Paso Robles is known for ranch culture just as much as its wine culture and the Mid-State Fair helps bring that to life. Be sure to visit the Livestock Show to experience life as a local cattle, horse, goat, or poultry rancher. And don’t miss one of the star attractions of the Fair: The Rodeo! Cheer on your favorite cowfolk as they participate in a range of rodeo events. 

There’s plenty for kids to do, too! Enter your littlest in the Diaper Dash to see who is crowned the crawling king or queen. Let those under 8 work out some energy in the Pedal Tractor Race every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Cheer on local pigs as they compete in Barnyard Racers. Horse lovers can get their fill at the Draft Horse Demo. The best part? All of these activities are completely free with entry. The Mid-State Fair is also a great place to help kids learn about their communities, with a Gardening Corner, a Fire Safety Education Corner, and more. 

The California Mid-State Fair is always a highlight of summer in Paso Robles and guarantees memories for the entire family for years to come. 

10 Pro Tips for the California Mid-State Fair

  • Get to the Frontier & Mission Square stages 30–45 minutes early for the best views.

  • Eat before 6 or after 8 to skip long food lines—and explore beyond the main court for hidden gems.

  • Bring an empty water bottle and refill at stations near the Main Quad & Cal Fire.

  • Cool off inside the Mission Market Place (hello, AC and local shopping).

  • Don’t miss free kids’ activities like the Diaper Dash & Pedal Tractor Races.

  • Carnival ride lines are shortest right when gates open or during headliner shows.

  • Catch live music at La Cantina, The Island Stage & The Silo for a more laid-back vibe.

  • Pack a layer—Paso evenings cool off fast.

  • Use the free shuttle to avoid parking headaches.

  • Know where First Aid is near the main entrance, and pick a meeting spot with your group just in case.

Visit the website for full details: California Mid-State Fair