California State Fair Will Shift to September Dates
The 2027 state fair is scheduled for September 17 to October 3, moving away from its traditional mid-summer window.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Fairs and Festivals
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Should local events prioritize schedule stability over avoiding competition with larger regional attractions?
The California Exposition and State Fair has announced a schedule change, moving its 2027 event to run from September 17 to October 3. This shift departs from the fair's previous mid-summer operating period.
Why it matters
The change creates a significant scheduling conflict with the Kern County Fair, potentially forcing vendors and attractions to choose between the two major events.
The California Exposition and State Fair will now overlap with the Kern County Fair under the new schedule. Butler Amusements, which provides carnival midway attractions for both events, is expected to favor the state fair.
The players
California Exposition and State Fair
This is the official state fair of California held annually in Sacramento.
Kern County Fair
This annual agricultural and community event takes place in Kern County.
Butler Amusements
Based in Fairfield, this company provides carnival midway attractions and rides for various fairs across the state.
Sean Andrews
He is the new CEO of the Kern County Fair.
Michael Olcott
He served as the CEO of the Kern County Fair for 13 years before being replaced.
The details
Kern County officials are currently evaluating future options for their fair as the new dates for the state exposition create logistical pressures. The move impacts the broader fair circuit, as industry vendors and entertainment operators must navigate the overlapping schedules in September and October.
Timeline
The state fair was held from mid-July to August in 2026.
The 2027 California Exposition and State Fair is scheduled for September 17 to October 3.
Industry Dynamics
This shift disrupts the established California fair circuit, which has historically relied on a mid-summer calendar. The move forces smaller county events to compete for limited regional vendors and amusement providers during the peak autumn window.
Attendees should prepare for significant changes to the annual fair experience as the event moves into the fall season. This adjustment may alter local travel plans and affect the availability of specific midway attractions that typically appear at regional events.
The takeaway
The rescheduling highlights the complex logistical interdependencies between California's regional event organizers and their shared vendors. Visitors planning their fair season should verify event dates in advance to avoid conflicts during this transition.
Further reading
Learn more about local events in the Fairs and Festivals section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KGET 17.
Live Poll
Should local events prioritize schedule stability over avoiding competition with larger regional attractions?
