California State Fair keeps the groove going with legendary band, dance teams, monster trucks, llama costumes, and more
The countdown to the final weekend is on, and Thursday kicks off the first of eight remaining days at the California State Fair. With comfortable evening temps in the forecast and a schedule stacked with funk, food, and fun, July 24 is shaping up to be a prime night to experience all that Cal Expo has to offer.
From the legendary soul sounds ofTower of Powerto racing pigs, dancing llamas, monster truck rides, and hands-on exhibits for all ages, the fairgrounds will be buzzing with energy as the statewide celebration enters its home stretch.
The spotlight shines onTower of Powerat 8 p.m. as part of the Toyota Concert Series on the Sky River Casino Stage. For over 55 years, the iconic band has delivered powerful horn-driven funk and soul that’s helped define the “Oakland sound.” From their early days as The Motowns to the hits ofBump City,East Bay Grease, and timeless tracks like “What Is Hip?” and “So Very Hard to Go,” the group’s stage presence remains as dynamic as ever. Still led by foundersEmilio Castilloand“Doc” Kupka, the band continues to thrill fans around the world with its signature grooves.
In addition to Tower of Power, a full evening of live performances is planned across the fairgrounds. At the Kona Brewing Tiki Bar Stage,Hit Replaybrings retro flair with two high-octane sets of ’80s favorites from 8 to 9:50 p.m. Over at the Don Julio Outlaw Bar & Stage,Infuzed Bandblends modern pop, funk, and soul in back-to-back evening sets starting at 8 p.m.
The 805 Blues & Brews Stage hosts local favoriteMoonshine & Honeywith sets at 6 and 7 p.m., while the ICanGoToCollege.com Promenade Stage features a variety of performances throughout the night.Countskick things off with a short set at 5 p.m., followed by a high-energy showcase by theMane Event Dance Team, including performers from McClatchy and Sound Rhythm Tap & Dance, at 7 p.m. Wrapping up the night will beThe Konsept Party Band, known for their powerhouse vocals and nonstop energy, performing from 9 to 10:50 p.m.
Fairgoers can also enjoy returning favorites from the daily lineup of attractions. TheTanzanite African Acrobatsperform at the PG&E Center Stage at 6 and 8 p.m., while the ever-popularAll-Alaskan Racing Pigsdash to the finish line at 5:30, 6:30, 8:30, and 9:30 p.m.Sea Lion Splashreturns to the Olive Grove at 7 and 9 p.m., and the crowd-favoritehypnotisttakes the stage at 5, 7, and 9 p.m. in the Expo Center. Comedy and adventure take center stage withCaptain Jack Spareribsat Building D and live music fromThe Drumheadsat the Adventure Stage, both performing at 6 and 8 p.m.
Over at the Big Barn, Thursday offers a special treat with the return of llamas and alpacas, including the much-anticipatedLlama Costume Classat 6:30 p.m. Youth competitions for FFA and 4-H members continue, showcasing everything from goats and cattle to rabbits and poultry as young exhibitors compete for top honors.
The SaveMart California Kitchen Cooking Theater heats up in Building B with aT-bones and lamb showcaseat 4:30 p.m., followed by a specialButcher Showcaseat 7:30 p.m. While there, visitors can enjoy the Taste of California Classroom, free samples at Tasters’ Row, and browse exhibits on olive oil, baked goods, food preservation, and floral design.
For those looking for adventure, theDodge Ram Trucksactivation offers two ways to get your adrenaline fix: climb aboard the “Ramdemption” monster truck for a free ride, or test drive a Ram 1500 on the on-site track.
Families and kids will find plenty to explore, from camel rides and petting zoos to a rock climbing wall and carnival games spread across the fairgrounds. The Expo buildings continue to host crowd-pleasing exhibits including theSuper Secret Silent Disco(Building 1), the vibrantCandy Maze Selfie Exhibit(Building 2), and the futuristicPOPnology(Building 3), featuring robots, virtual reality, and 3D printing.
Wild World Adventurein Building 4 introduces visitors to rescued animals from around the globe, whileCaLOWfornia Lovein Building 5 celebrates the state’s rich lowrider culture with classic and custom cars on display. Building 6’sRustic Charm Marketoffers vintage finds and handmade treasures, and Building 7 features theFine Art & Photography Exhibit, showcasing works by California artists and photographers. Building 8 continues to spotlight youth talent through theStudent Showcase & California Craftsexhibit.
Building Afeatures the beach-themedCalifornia Authorsarea, the educationalCalifornia Fresh Exhibit, regional tourism booths forAmador and Mono counties, interactive displays inLife’s Big Ag-Venture, a showcase of rare birds by theNorthern California Pigeon Fanciers, and the always-popularU.S. Postal Servicebooth with collectibles and stamp trivia.
Building Bremains a bustling hub of agriculture, culinary, and conservation programming, home to theSaveMart California Kitchen,Friends of the Fair Bakery,Olive Oil Exhibit,UC Master Food Preservation Center,California Floral Society, and the whimsical live-actionTree Circus.
Thursday’s schedule includes a full mix of live music, family activities, and educational exhibits as the California State Fair heads into the weekend ahead.
This Week’s Entertainment Headliners to Come
As the fair heads into its final weekend, several major headliners are set to take the Sky River Casino Stage in the days ahead. On Friday, July 25, alternative rock favoritesO.A.R.bring their jam-band sound to the stage. Saturday, July 26, country duoBrothers Osborneturn up the volume with their award-winning hits. Closing out the concert series on Sunday, July 27, R&B iconsEn Voguedeliver their soulful harmonies to end the fair on a high note.
For full schedule details and ticket information, visitwww.calexpostatefair.com.
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