The 2025 San Diego County Fair closed Sunday night after a smooth and festive 20-day run that drew more than 874,000 visitors and featured an array of new attractions, value deals, and pet-themed programming.
Held under the theme “Summer Pet-tacular,” this year’s fair embraced the joy of pet ownership with themed exhibits, entertainment, and educational activities—all while continuing its mission to provide a safe, inclusive, and affordable experience for all San Diegans.
“Fair season is the most joyous time of the year — a time when we get to celebrate our community, with our community,” said Carlene Moore, CEO of the 22nd District Agricultural Association, which produces the annual event. “This year, we fostered a remarkable guest experience, tried out new ideas and layouts, and offered top-tier entertainment. The result? Smiling faces, sweet and savory treats, and a festive atmosphere enjoyed by guests of all ages.”
Pet-Centered Fun and a New Exhibit
The 2025 theme came to life through a 20,000-square-foot exhibit, “Pets Rock: Live on Tour,” presented by Kahoots. The immersive experience showcased life through the eyes of pets, featured adoptable animals from the San Diego Humane Society, and included interactive elements like a mini pet store and daily talks. Of the 42 animals showcased, half have already been adopted.
Other pet-centric events included Corgi and Wiener dog races, DockDogs and Flyball competitions, stunt dog shows, puppy yoga, and a special appearance by dog trainer Cesar Millan. Dog owners even had a chance to walk or run with their pooches before the Fair opened on July 5.
New Attractions and Expanded Deals
Beyond the theme, the fair introduced new experiences and a broader range of value-driven promotions to ensure accessibility for all visitors. Highlights included:
Foodie Fridays – 50% off select food items from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Game On Fridays – All games are available for four credits on Friday afternoons New $15 meal deals and discounted tickets at Albertsons | Vons, for military families, and through community programs Fair Tripper transit discounts for Juneteenth The return of season passesThe San Diego Marketplace, a new curated shopping space, debuted this year with artisan vendors, a tattoo parlor, and a portrait studio. Another major addition was Farm 2U, an agriculture-focused exhibit in O’Brien Hall showcasing local farmers, culinary demos, and the farm-to-table process.
Entertainment Highlights
For the first time since 2019, the Toyota Summer Concert Series filled the Corona Grandstand Stage every night of the Fair. Two shows sold out: country star Jon Pardi (8,333 attendees) and EDM artist Zedd (8,323 attendees).
Evening programming also included the Summer Nights at The Sound series, comedy shows, and cultural festivals, such as the inaugural K-POP Festival, Native American Heritage Day, Out at the Fair, and Spanish-language Sundays under the popular “Domingueando en la Feria” banner.
Economic and Community Impact
The fair once again provided significant economic opportunities for small businesses, artisans, performers, vendors, and contractors. More than 1,200 temporary employees were hired by the 22nd DAA, in addition to thousands hired by concessionaires and partners.
The third-annual Fair-Tastic Foods Competition helped elevate vendors like Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls, which sold over 7,200 of its new Tres Leches rolls, and Farmer in Del, whose “Super Volcano Fries” took home the People’s Choice Award.
This year’s attendance—874,263 over 20 days—nearly matched 2024 figures, averaging almost 44,000 guests per day. Dignitaries in attendance included San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, U.S. Rep. Mike Levin, Chula Vista Mayor John McCann, and other local officials.
For the first time, the Fair also brought the festivities to Rady Children’s Hospital, offering a mini-fair experience to patients and their families.
“That’s what the fair does best — bringing joy to the lives of all San Diegans,” Moore said. “We already can’t wait to do it all over again next year.”
By the Numbers: 2025 San Diego County Fair Highlights
874,263 attendees $293 million regional economic impact (inflation-adjusted from 2019 study) 0 major safety incidents 70 rides, including 10 new additions 1,268 temporary employees hired by the 22nd DAA 7,200 Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls sold (2,600 pounds total) 30,321 turkey legs sold 18,222 performers 17,481 competitive exhibit entries 4,212 blue ribbons awarded 75,730 attendees at the Toyota Summer Concert Series 547 tattoos inked in the Marketplace 105 buyers participated in the Junior Livestock Auction, which raised $664,128 12,000+ water bottles saved by new refill stations 682 items turned into Lost & Found 917 entries in the Pet-tacular Photo Challenge 15,016 free tickets distributed through the Fair-for-All Program 58,520 – single busiest day attendance 87 piercings performed 628 local fairgoers featured on community banners Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( A paw-sitive success: San Diego County Fair’s ‘Pet-tacular’ season draws 874,000 guests )
Also on site :