ULTIMATE ARIZONA STATE FAIR 2024 GUIDE: CONCERTS, TICKETS, HOURS AND LOCATION

As Arizona commemorates its 112th year of statehood, another significant milestone approaches: the Arizona State Fair’s 140th birthday celebration. From Friday, Sept. 20, through Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, fairgoers will be treated to nonstop live music, thrilling rides and indulgent fair food.

This year’s fair embraces a special birthday theme, honoring 140 years of community spirit and fair fun, as it continues to be a cherished institution since its establishment in 1884 as the territorial fair.

The Arizona State Fair celebrates the state's arts, agriculture, entertainment and vibrant culture. Last year, it attracted over 1.4 million visitors from all over the state and beyond. This year, it promises to combine beloved traditions with exciting new attractions, including headliners in the Coliseum Concert Series, thrilling grandstand events, competitive entries, livestock shows and exhilarating rides.

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Here is your guide to the 2024 Arizona State Fair.

What are the Arizona State Fair dates?

The 2024 Arizona State Fair runs Sept. 20-Oct. 27.

How much does it cost to get into the Arizona State Fair?

Tickets can be purchased at azstatefair.com/ticket-info and at the gate. The 2024 ticket prices are as follows: 

  • $15 for age 8 and older.
  • Free for age 7 and younger.

A variety of deals and discounts are offered. Check out the choices at azstatefair.com/deals-promotions. 

How much are wristbands at the Arizona State Fair?

Unlimited-ride wristbands can only be bought in person from noon to 6 p.m. and honored for use until 8:00 p.m. every Thursday the fair is open. Wristbands cost $50 and include unlimited rides on all fair rides on Thursdays only.

Who is performing at the Arizona State Fair 2024?

The Coliseum Concert Series takes place at the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Prices start at $25 and include fair admission if purchased in advance. Tickets purchased on the day of the show will not include fair admission. Each concert is an "Evening With" performance with no opener. Here's the lineup:

  • The All-American Rejects: 7 p.m. Oct. 12.
  • I Love the '90s Tour: 7 p.m. Oct. 18.
  • Big Time Rush: 7 p.m. Oct. 25.

Arizona State Fair shows

Other shows, entertainment and exhibits at the fair include tribute bands, Figure 8 stock-car racing, circus acts and magic shows.

For the full schedule and to see which shows have admission prices, go to azstatefair.com/events

And, of course, you can't overlook the agricultural roots of the fair. Spectators will be able to see exhibitions and competitions for livestock as well as the arts, sciences and horticulture.

Arizona State Fair food 2024

What is the Arizona State Fair without all the crazy, decadent, big food?

Besides the classics such as cotton candy, funnel cakes, caramel apples and popcorn, here's what hungry fairgoers can look forward to this year: 

  • Giant cone of curly fries.
  • Anything with Hot Cheetos: Corn dogs, elote, pizza.
  • Bacon-wrapped turkey leg.
  • Chamoy pickles.
  • Deep-fried delights: Oreos, pickles, Snickers and ice cream, just to name a few.

Can I bring water into the AZ State Fair?

No outside food or drinks are allowed on the fairgrounds. .

How much is parking at the Arizona State Fair?

The 2024 parking prices have yet to be announced. Here are the official parking lot locations; other nearby lots are privately owned:

  • North Lot 1: Monte Vista Gate at 19th Avenue and Monte Vista Road.
  • West Lot 1: Encanto Boulevard between 19th Avenue and 20th Avenue.
  • South Parking: 17th Avenue and McDowell Road.

Are there rides at the Arizona State Fair?

The fair will have 67 rides and attractions this year, including classics like the Ferris wheel, Sky Ride and Rave Wave. Here are other highlights: 

  • Endeavour: This souped-up Ferris wheel whirls passengers around and around.
  • G-Force: This ride swings you back and forth through the air.  
  • Cliff Hanger: Riders lie on their stomachs and fly through the air in a simulation of hang gliding.
  • La Grande XL: The famous giant Ferris wheel is back, providing aerial views of the state fair.
  • Zero Gravity: Riders face inward and are pushed against the walls as this giant wheel spins.

How to get free admission to AZ State Fair?

To get into the Arizona State Fair for free, you can take advantage of the following options:

  • Feel Good Fridays: On Fridays, bring 10 cans or items of nonperishable food between noon and 6 p.m. and you'll receive one free admission. This offer excludes certain items like bottled water, soda, baby food, seasoning packets, ramen noodles and items in glass containers. Donations benefit Operation Santa Claus and St. Mary’s Food Bank.
  • Armed Forces Day: On Friday, Oct. 11, military personnel get free admission from noon to 6 p.m. by using the password "USAA" to get up to four tickets per person. You must present your military ID when redeeming the tickets.

Does the light rail go to the Arizona State Fair?

Yes, the Valley Metro Light Rail can take you close to the Arizona State Fair. The nearest light rail station to the fairgrounds is the Encanto/Central Ave. station. It is approximately a 29-minute walk from the fairgrounds.

Arizona State Fair 2024

When: Friday, Sept. 20-Sunday, Oct. 27. On opening weekend, gates open at 4 p.m. After that, hours are noon-9 p.m. Thursdays; noon-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; noon- 9 p.m. Sundays.

Where: Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix.

Admission: General admission is $15; free for age 7 and younger.

Details: 602-252-6771, azstatefair.com.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Ultimate Arizona State Fair 2024 guide: Concerts, tickets, hours and location

2024-09-06T12:05:17Z dg43tfdfdgfd