Amador County California Fair Schedule

The Amador County California Fair Schedule brings a traditional Gold Country county fair to Plymouth, California, combining agriculture, livestock, horse events, competitive exhibits, carnival attractions, rodeo entertainment, food, music, and community celebrations. The fair is especially connected to Amador County’s agricultural and ranching identity, while its location in the Sierra foothills also gives the event a strong connection to the region’s wine, cattle, equestrian, and rural traditions.

The 2026 Amador County Fair is scheduled for July 30 through August 2, 2026, with the theme “More Cowbell!” The fairgrounds will operate from 9:00 a.m. until midnight on Thursday and Sunday and from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. The 2027 fair is scheduled for July 29 through August 1, 2027, although individual entertainment times, ticket information, and some competition details can change as the next fair approaches.

Fair Overview and Fast Facts

The Amador County Fair is held at the Amador County Fairgrounds & Event Center, 18621 Sherwood Street, Plymouth, California 95669. The grounds contain livestock barns, horse facilities, exhibit buildings, event areas, camping spaces, the Benny Brown Arena, Carnival Hill, and other facilities used throughout the year for agricultural and community events.

The 2026 fair begins on Thursday, July 30, and continues through Sunday, August 2. Thursday is designated as Kid’s Day, Friday as Senior’s Day, Saturday as Cattleman’s Day, and Sunday as Junior Livestock Auction Day. The schedule therefore gives different parts of the local community a particular place within the four-day celebration.

Children age 6 and under are admitted free throughout the 2026 fair. Children 12 and under are admitted free on Thursday until 6:00 p.m., while seniors age 60 and older receive free admission on Friday until 6:00 p.m., although the fair notes that a ticket is still required for these promotional admissions. Carnival wristbands are available separately for unlimited rides on a selected fair day.

The fair also maintains specific visitor rules. Pets are not allowed on the fairgrounds during the fair, except for permitted service animals. Outside drinks, alcohol, coolers, large containers, weapons, bicycles, scooters, skateboards, and roller skates are also prohibited.

History and Origins

The Amador County Fair has a long history reaching back to the late nineteenth century. The 26th District Agricultural Association held its first fair in Ione in 1887, when the event was known as the Amador and Sacramento County Annual Fair. Early fairs included agricultural displays and harness racing, reflecting the importance of farming, livestock, and horse culture in the region.

The fair moved to Plymouth in 1938, initially operating under a large tent on the playground area that later became associated with Plymouth Elementary School. The first portion of the present fairgrounds was purchased in 1940, followed by additional land acquisitions that gradually created the larger grounds used today.

The fair was not held during the World War II years when California fairs were postponed, but otherwise the organization has maintained a long-running tradition of annual community fairs. Over the decades, local families, agricultural exhibitors, volunteers, board members, youth organizations, and businesses have played an important role in keeping the event connected to Amador County.

The historical development of the grounds also explains some of its distinctive character. Rather than being designed only as a modern event complex, the fairgrounds developed around agricultural buildings, livestock facilities, horse areas, exhibit spaces, and community gathering places. That combination remains visible in the present-day fair.

Visitors comparing California county fair traditions can explore the Alpine County California Fair Schedule alongside the Amador County California Fair Schedule to see how different Sierra and Gold Country communities celebrate agriculture and local heritage. Alpine County participates in the Eastern Sierra Tri-County Fair in Bishop, featuring livestock, youth agricultural programs, exhibits, carnival attractions, rodeo entertainment, and a demolition derby, while Amador County’s fair in Plymouth combines livestock shows, 4-H and FFA activities, horse events, wine and agricultural competitions, carnival rides, rodeo, and a Destruction Derby. Looking at both schedules provides a useful comparison of how California’s smaller and rural counties preserve agricultural traditions while creating distinctive family and community experiences.

Agricultural Competitions and Livestock Shows

Agriculture remains one of the most important parts of the Amador County Fair. Junior and open livestock programs give local exhibitors an opportunity to raise, prepare, show, and sell animals while learning practical responsibilities related to animal care and agriculture.

The livestock program includes market and breeding projects involving animals such as beef cattle, swine, lambs, market goats, poultry, rabbits, and other eligible classes. Exhibitors must follow the fair’s entry requirements, health rules, identification requirements, and applicable youth livestock procedures.

The Junior Livestock Auction is one of the major agricultural events of the fair. It gives buyers and community supporters an opportunity to purchase animals raised by young exhibitors while directly supporting youth agricultural education. The auction is connected to a larger Junior Livestock program that requires preparation throughout the year rather than only during fair week.

Horse activities are another major part of the agricultural program. The 2026 Horse Show includes a 4-H, Junior Grange, and FFA day with gymkhana and fun classes on July 29. Cattleman’s Day on August 1 features activities such as cattle sorting, calf branding, penning, and team roping. The August 2 program includes a cutting event that demonstrates the coordination between horse and rider while working cattle.

Fair Schedule Structure

The Amador County Fair follows a four-day public schedule in 2026, but some related agricultural and equestrian events begin before the official opening day. The horse program begins on Wednesday, July 29, providing a preview of the livestock and western traditions that continue throughout the fair.

Thursday, July 30, serves as Kid’s Day. The day also includes the Plymouth Parade, which begins at 8:00 a.m. near City Hall on Main Street. The Miss Amador County Fair Scholarship Contest has public activities during the day, and the 2026 Miss Amador Rodeo Queen is scheduled to be crowned at 6:00 p.m. in the Benny Brown Arena. Mutton Bustin’ follows the rodeo queen ceremony.

Friday, July 31, is Senior’s Day and extends the fair’s entertainment and community activities into the evening. Saturday, August 1, is Cattleman’s Day, placing particular emphasis on western, cattle, horse, and rodeo activities. Sunday, August 2, is Junior Livestock Auction Day and also includes the final day of fair attractions and competitions.

The 2027 livestock information already identifies the next Amador County Fair as July 29 through August 1, 2027. Visitors planning for 2027 should still check the final fair program for exact daily times, ticket prices, entertainment, competition deadlines, and special events.

Entertainment, Rides, and Midway

Carnival attractions are an important part of the Amador County Fair experience. The fairgrounds include a dedicated Carnival Hill area where visitors can enjoy rides and midway games. Unlimited carnival ride wristbands are offered for individual days, making them an option for families who expect to use several rides during their visit.

The fair also combines carnival entertainment with food vendors, commercial exhibitors, community displays, music, stage programming, and activities throughout the grounds. The combination is particularly noticeable during the evening, when the fair shifts from daytime agricultural competitions toward a broader family entertainment atmosphere.

The fair’s 2026 program also includes mutton busting, rodeo events, the Miss Amador competitions, horse activities, and the Destruction Derby. These attractions complement rather than replace the agricultural portion of the event, allowing the fair to maintain both its traditional livestock identity and its modern entertainment appeal.

Open Class and Amateur Competitions

Amador County provides opportunities for residents and exhibitors to participate in the fair even when they are not showing livestock. The fair’s Still Exhibits program includes adult open, junior open, 4-H, Junior Grange, and FFA divisions.

Entries can include creative, agricultural, horticultural, and practical projects depending on the department and current exhibitor guide. Floriculture and agricultural horticulture are also part of the competition program, giving local growers an opportunity to display flowers, vegetables, and other cultivated products.

Wine and beer competitions have a particularly strong regional connection. The 2026 program includes commercial wine, homemade wine and wine labels, commercial brewing, and homebrew competitions. This reflects Amador County’s wider agricultural and wine-growing identity and gives local producers a formal place within the county fair.

Entry deadlines differ by department. Still exhibit entries open earlier than some floriculture and agricultural horticulture categories, so exhibitors should use the appropriate year’s exhibitor guide rather than relying on previous fair deadlines.

Demolition Derby, Tractor Pulls, and Motorsport Events

The Destruction Derby is one of the major motorsport attractions associated with the Amador County Fair. The 2026 event is scheduled for Sunday, August 2, with gates opening at 4:30 p.m. and the derby beginning in the evening. Reserved seating is used for the event, and the destruction derby ticket is separate from general fair admission.

The destruction derby has become an important entertainment feature because it adds a motorsport component to a fair otherwise strongly centered on agriculture, horses, livestock, and western activities.

A traditional tractor pull is not specifically confirmed in the published 2026 fair information, so visitors should not assume that a tractor pull will be part of the current program. The fair’s confirmed motorsport attraction is the Destruction Derby.

The western events provide a different type of competition. The 2026 CCPRA Rodeo is scheduled for Saturday, August 1, at 8:00 p.m., while mutton busting provides a youth-oriented western attraction earlier in the fair.

4-H and FFA Youth Programs

Youth agriculture is deeply integrated into the Amador County Fair. 4-H and FFA members participate in livestock, horse activities, still exhibits, agricultural projects, and other competitive programs. Junior Grange members are also included in some of the fair’s youth competitions.

The youth livestock program requires preparation well before the July fair. Exhibitors must complete applicable animal identification, health, educational, and entry requirements. The Junior Livestock Auction then provides a major opportunity for young exhibitors to present their projects to buyers and community supporters.

The horse program also provides a clear youth pathway. The 2026 Wednesday Horse Show is specifically designed around 4-H, Junior Grange, and FFA participants, combining traditional horse-show classes with gymkhana and fun classes.

These programs make the fair an educational experience as well as an entertainment event. Young participants learn about animal care, agriculture, responsibility, competition, presentation, record keeping, and community involvement.

Fairgrounds Facilities and Layout

The Amador County Fairgrounds & Event Center occupies a historic fairground setting in Plymouth and is designed to support both the annual fair and other agricultural and community events throughout the year.

Major facilities include Pokerville Hall, the Floriculture Building, Spur Emporium, Frontier-style areas, the Biagi Bandstand, Benny Brown Arena, livestock barns, horse barns, outdoor event areas, Carnival Hill, and camping facilities.

The Benny Brown Arena is especially important for equestrian and western events. Livestock barns provide the infrastructure required for animal exhibitions, while exhibit buildings accommodate competitive entries and other displays.

Camping facilities for RVs and tents are also available at the fairgrounds. Because camping arrangements can vary according to event dates and available spaces, fair visitors should confirm the current fair-week camping rules and reservation requirements before traveling.

Getting There: Directions and Logistics

The Amador County Fairgrounds are located at 18621 Sherwood Street in Plymouth, California. Plymouth is in Amador County in California’s Sierra foothill region, making the fairgrounds accessible to visitors traveling from communities such as Jackson, Sutter Creek, Ione, and other parts of the county.

Visitors should allow additional travel time during major fair events, particularly during the Plymouth Parade and evening grandstand attractions. Traffic around the fairgrounds can become heavier when the carnival, rodeo, Destruction Derby, and other large events are operating.

Parking arrangements and traffic procedures can change from year to year, so visitors should follow the fair’s current signs and instructions when they arrive. Since the fairgrounds also host livestock trailers, horse exhibitors, vendors, and event equipment, visitors should follow designated vehicle and pedestrian routes rather than entering restricted agricultural areas.

The fairgrounds’ visitor rules prohibit bicycles, scooters, skateboards, roller skates, coolers, large containers, outside drinks, weapons, and pets other than permitted service animals. Bags and packages may also be subject to inspection.

Volunteer and Vendor Opportunities

The Amador County Fair depends heavily on local participation, including exhibitors, volunteers, sponsors, agricultural organizations, vendors, and community supporters. The fair has historically been described as a community gathering where families and long-time residents contribute to the event.

Commercial vendors and concessionaires can apply for space through the fair’s vendor program. Food vendors are required to meet applicable health-permit and food-safety requirements, while vendors generally need to provide or purchase liability insurance according to the fair’s requirements.

The 2026 vendor schedule requires indoor booths to operate for specified daytime and evening hours, while outdoor vendors have longer operating periods. Applications are handled through the fair office, and vendors should review the current manual rather than assuming requirements remain identical from one year to another.

Volunteers and exhibitors can also contribute through agricultural competitions, livestock programs, youth organizations, community displays, and other fair departments. These participants help maintain the local character that distinguishes the Amador County event from larger metropolitan fairs.

Economic and Community Impact

The Amador County Fair contributes to the local economy by bringing visitors to Plymouth and encouraging spending on food, entertainment, lodging, transportation, shopping, agricultural products, and other local services.

Its impact extends beyond the four public fair days. The fairgrounds operate as an event center throughout the year, hosting livestock and horse activities, community gatherings, agricultural events, and other functions. This makes the property an ongoing community asset rather than a facility used only during the annual fair.

The fair also creates an economic connection between agricultural producers and consumers. Livestock auctions, wine and beer competitions, agricultural exhibits, commercial vendors, and local food-related activities allow visitors to see the products and skills associated with the county’s rural economy.

Perhaps most importantly, the fair provides a place where generations of Amador County residents can participate together. Youth exhibitors can compete alongside established agricultural families, while local businesses, volunteers, entertainers, and community organizations contribute to the same annual event.

Comparing Amador County Fair to Nearby Fairs

The Amador County Fair has a particularly strong Gold Country and agricultural character compared with larger California county fairs. Its combination of livestock, horses, cattle activities, wine competitions, youth agriculture, rodeo, and western entertainment reflects the rural identity of Amador County.

Its Destruction Derby and carnival provide a modern entertainment component, but the event remains closely connected to agriculture. The Junior Livestock Auction, 4-H and FFA programs, cattle activities, horse show, and agricultural competitions are not side attractions; they are central parts of the fair’s identity.

Visitors comparing Amador County with nearby California fairs may also notice differences in scale. Amador’s fairgrounds create a more community-oriented environment where local agriculture, western traditions, youth programs, and long-established family participation remain highly visible.

The result is a fair that combines the atmosphere of a traditional rural county celebration with professional entertainment and organized competitive programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates and hours of the Amador County Fair?

The 2026 Amador County Fair runs from July 30 through August 2, 2026. Fair hours are 9:00 a.m. to midnight on Thursday and Sunday and 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. The 2027 fair is scheduled for July 29 through August 1, 2027, with detailed daily programming subject to release.

Where is the Amador County Fair held?

The fair is held at the Amador County Fairgrounds & Event Center, 18621 Sherwood Street, Plymouth, California 95669. The grounds contain livestock barns, horse facilities, exhibit buildings, the Benny Brown Arena, Carnival Hill, and other event facilities.

How much does it cost to attend the Amador County Fair?

Admission prices can vary according to the day and promotional offer. In 2026, children age 6 and under are admitted free every day, children 12 and under are admitted free on Thursday until 6:00 p.m., and seniors age 60 and older are admitted free on Friday until 6:00 p.m. A ticket is still required for promotional free admission. Carnival wristbands and grandstand events may require separate tickets.

Is there free parking at the Amador County Fair?

Parking arrangements can vary during the fair and may be affected by special events and traffic controls. Visitors should follow the official parking directions and signs in effect during the current fair rather than assuming that a previous year’s arrangement will be repeated.

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the Amador County Fair?

The fair’s 2026 policies prohibit cans, bottles, drinks, alcohol, coolers, and large containers from being brought onto the grounds. Food and beverages are available from fair vendors, so visitors should review the current entry policy before arriving.

How do I enter an item in competition at the Amador County Fair?

First, exhibitors should select the department and class from the current Exhibitor Guide. Entries can then be submitted using the appropriate entry form or online entry system. Different departments have different deadlines, so exhibitors should check the current guide for still exhibits, floriculture, agriculture, wine, beer, livestock, horse events, or other competitions.

Is the Amador County Fair appropriate for young children?

Yes. The fair includes children’s activities, carnival rides, youth livestock programs, mutton busting, horse events, and a dedicated Kid’s Day. Children age 6 and under are admitted free in 2026, and children 12 and under receive a special free-admission opportunity on Thursday until 6:00 p.m.

Are pets allowed at the Amador County Fair?

No. The 2026 fair policy states that pets are not allowed on the fairgrounds during the fair. Permitted service animals are the exception. Dogs are also prohibited from participating in the Plymouth Parade.

Does the Amador County Fair have a demolition derby?

Yes. A Destruction Derby is scheduled for Sunday, August 2, 2026. It is a separately ticketed grandstand event, and the published schedule lists gates opening at 4:30 p.m.

Who organizes the Amador County Fair?

The fair is operated by the Amador County Fair and the 26th District Agricultural Association, with a board of directors, fair management, staff, exhibitors, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners contributing to the event.

Is there camping available at the Amador County Fair fairgrounds?

Yes. The fairgrounds include RV and tent camping facilities. However, fair-week camping arrangements, availability, reservations, and rules can vary, so visitors should confirm the current camping information before making travel plans.

What happens if the fair is cancelled due to weather?

The fair’s ticket policy states that if the event is cancelled or rescheduled by the Amador County Fair, ticket holders will be notified and alternative arrangements or refunds may be offered at the fair’s discretion. Weather-related changes should therefore be checked against the current official announcement rather than assumed in advance.