INDIO, Calif., One of Southern California’s most cherished annual celebrations is currently in full swing this week as the 78th Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival draws families, visitors, and agricultural enthusiasts from across the Coachella Valley and beyond. The festival, held at the Riverside County Fairgrounds in Indio, highlights the region’s deep agricultural roots, rich community traditions, and vibrant desert culture, making it a standout regional event this February.
Running from February 12 through March 1, 2026, the Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival has become a festive gathering point in the desert, offering more than two weeks of entertainment, food, animal exhibits, educational experiences, and community enrichment.
A Celebration of Heritage, Culture, and Family Fun
Originally established in 1921, the annual Fair & Date Festival has long celebrated the Coachella Valley’s agricultural identity, particularly its date palm industry, a crop that remains central to the region’s farming economy. Today, the festival combines traditional fair elements with unique local flair, making it a must‑visit for families and visitors of all ages.
This year’s theme, “Return to the Oasis,” invites attendees to experience a refreshed festival atmosphere that blends classic attractions with new experiences designed to highlight community pride and desert culture.
At the heart of the experience are the carnival midway and rides, food vendors offering classic fair fare alongside date‑infused treats, and daily entertainment that ranges from live music to competitions and demonstrations.
A noteworthy addition to the 2026 festival is the National Date Festival Museum inside the Sands of Time Pavilion. The museum offers an engaging look at the agricultural history behind date farming in the Coachella Valley and contextualizes the crop’s importance to local heritage and economy.
Entertainment, Community Activities and Events
One of the festival’s major draws is its diverse lineup of events. Visitors can enjoy:
- Carnival rides and games that appeal to kids and adults alike.
- Animal exhibits and petting farms that connect visitors with livestock and educate children about agriculture.
- Special arena shows, including monster truck demonstrations and PRCA rodeo performances set for the festival’s final weekend.
- Cultural performances, dance routines, and music stages that reflect the community’s artistic diversity.
The festival isn’t just about fun and games, it’s also a place for learning and community pride. The Hall of Ribbons showcases competitive quilts, fine arts and baked goods, and the Cave of Wonders gem and mineral exhibit provides educational fascination for geology enthusiasts.
Additionally, the fairgrounds feature interactive experiences, from animal interactions to craft workshops, that delight younger visitors and provide hands‑on engagement with agricultural and artistic traditions.
A Boost to Local Economy and Culture
Beyond entertainment, the Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival brings a significant economic benefit to the region. The event draws tens of thousands of visitors each year, contributing to the local economy through tourism, hospitality, food vendors, and small businesses participating in the marketplace.
The festival also reinforces community bonds and offers opportunities for local organizations, including arts groups, youth clubs, and agricultural associations, to showcase their work in front of a diverse audience.
For many in the Coachella Valley, attending the Fair & Date Festival is a beloved tradition that spans generations. It provides a space where residents can reconnect with neighbors, celebrate local culture, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a county fair that champions its agricultural heritage.
What Families Can Expect Today
On Tuesday, February 24, the festival continues with a full slate of activities and attractions scheduled throughout the day. Guests can look forward to carnival rides, live performances, food booths, and interactive exhibits. Many of the festival’s free attractions, including animal encounters and arts displays, are accessible with general admission.
The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival’s enduring legacy, along with this year’s refreshed offerings, underscores why it remains one of Southern California’s most beloved regional celebrations. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a blend of classic fair fun and unique local tradition that celebrates community, agriculture, and cultural vibrancy in the desert.
