Riverside Fair and Date Festival 2025 Guide

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Riverside Fair and Date Festival is back in 2025 bringing color culture and community fun to California like never before.

Held in Indio this beloved festival blends tradition and entertainment in a way that attracts thousands of families foodies and thrill seekers each year.

Whether you’re a first timer or a returning fan this guide will show you everything you need to know about this can’t miss event.

What is the Riverside Fair and Date Festival?

The Riverside Fair and Date Festival is one of California’s most exciting annual events. Hosted in Indio Riverside County it celebrates the region’s famous date fruit harvest with food rides music and culture.

The festival dates back to the early 20th century and today draws more than 250,000 visitors each year.

What started as a celebration of the local agricultural economy has grown into a massive community event filled with:

Live music and concerts
Carnival rides and games
Petting zoos and animal shows
Cultural exhibits
Art installations and handmade crafts

Whether you’re coming for the date shakes the fireworks or the music there’s something for everyone.

History of the Riverside Fair and Date Festival

The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival began in the 1920s to celebrate the region’s booming date farming industry.

Dates were a major crop in Coachella Valley especially the Medjool variety. Farmers and communities came together each year to show appreciation for the harvest through festivities.

Over the decades the festival expanded with parades contests musical pageants and more.

Key historic milestones include:

2013, 2017: New cultural programming and carnival expansion
2018, 2019: Introduction of Chella a mini music fest inside the fair
2020: Festival paused due to COVID 19
2023, 2024: Return of larger crowds and expanded vendor zones

Today it remains a blend of tradition and fun representing both Riverside County’s history and its future.

Riverside Fair and Date Festival 2025: Dates and Venue!

Mark your calendar! The 2025 festival runs from February 13 to March 2 giving you over two weeks of fun.

Location: Riverside County Fairgrounds 82,503 Hwy 111 Indio CA 92201
Opening Hours:

Weekdays: 10 AM, 10 PM
Weekends: 10 AM, Midnight

Make sure to check the official website for updates on artist schedules parade dates and more.

For fans of large scale events and immersive entertainment you might also enjoy reading about the Top Events at Highland Festival Grounds in Louisville which showcase a different yet equally exciting festival vibe.

What’s New in 2025?

Every year brings something new and 2025 is no exception.

Here’s what to look forward to:

Extended fireworks shows on opening and closing nights
A new eco friendly zone with green vendors and recycling challenges
Cultural exchange booths showcasing global heritage
The return of Chella music night with rising stars and tribute bands
More interactive exhibits for kids and families

Major Attractions at the Festival

The Parade

Expect dazzling floats local schools community groups and live marching bands. It’s colorful loud and full of energy perfect for families and photo lovers.

Carnival Rides

From roller coasters to bumper cars there’s something for every age. Ride passes are available at discounted rates online.

Live Entertainment

Chella returns in 2025 with artists performing pop country mariachi and hip hop.

Past acts have included:

Tribute bands like Queen Nation
Local rising stars
Cultural dance troupes

Animal Shows

Petting zoos pony rides and livestock exhibitions are a hit with younger visitors. Don’t miss the sheep shearing demos!

Arts and Crafts Market

Shop handmade items from local artisans including pottery jewelry and textile art. Many booths offer hands on workshops.

Family Activities

The festival is designed for all ages. Kid friendly activities include:

Face painting and balloon animals
Kids’ storytime with local authors
Science exhibits and STEM games
Magic shows and puppet theaters
Evening fireworks for the whole family

Tips for First Time Visitors

Arrive early on weekends to beat the traffic
Wear comfortable shoes for walking
Bring sunblock and water bottles
Buy tickets online to skip long lines
Use the festival map or app to plan your visit

Where to Stay in Indio

Staying near the fairgrounds makes your visit easier.

Here are top options:

Fantasy Springs Resort Casino entertainment dining and fun in one place
Best Western Date Tree Hotel just 2 miles away
Hampton Inn & Suites Indio modern and family friendly
Sands Hotel & Spa luxury option about 8 miles away

Ticket Information

General Admission:

Adults: $12, 15
Kids (5, 12): $8
Kids under 5: Free
Seniors: $10

Ride Wristbands:

Weekday: $25
Weekend: $35

Discount Days:

Thursdays: Free for kids
Family Friday bundles: Save 20%

Getting There & Parking

Driving: Use GPS to locate Riverside County Fairgrounds.

Parking:

$10 daily fee
Shuttle service from remote lots available

Public Transit:

SunLine Transit stops at the fairgrounds

Accessibility:

ADA parking and wheelchair rental available

Community Involvement

The festival isn’t just for fun it brings people together. Ways to get involved:

Volunteer at info booths or kids’ zones
Apply for a vendor booth to sell food or crafts
Sponsor local performers or shows
Join the planning team for 2026

Health Safety & Sustainability

Security teams patrol the fair daily
First aid tents are located near main stages
Eco zones promote recycling and green energy
Handwashing stations and sanitizer everywhere

Where to Stay Near the Riverside Fair and Date Festival

When attending the Riverside Fair and Date Festival finding a nearby place to stay can enhance your experience. Here are some great options:

Fantasy Springs Resort Casino: A luxury resort with a casino dining and entertainment just a short drive from the festival.
Best Western Date Tree Hotel: Located 1.8 miles from the fairgrounds this hotel offers comfortable rooms free breakfast and a pool.
Royal Plaza Inn Indio: Only 2 miles away this budget friendly option features clean rooms and an outdoor pool.
Hampton Inn & Suites Indio: A modern family friendly hotel with free breakfast and an outdoor pool located 2.4 miles from the festival.
Sands Hotel & Spa: For a more luxurious stay this boutique hotel offers a spa and pool about 8 miles from the fairgrounds.

Conclusion

The Riverside Fair and Date Festival is more than just a local event it’s a tradition a celebration and a true California experience.

From date shakes to fireworks family rides to cultural shows 2025 promises to be its best year yet.

Plan ahead bring your friends and enjoy the magic that only Riverside County can offer.

FAQs

When is the Riverside Fair and Date Festival 2025?

February 13 to March 2, 2025

Where is it located?

Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio, CA

Can I bring pets?

Only service animals are allowed

What’s Chella?

A live music night with performances by tribute bands and new talent

Is there parking?

Yes. On site and shuttle options available

Are there ticket discounts?