Some of music’s biggest names will be performing in Paso Robles this summer.
Now in its 80th year, the California Mid-State Fair is celebrating its 80th anniversary with a star-studded concert lineup that includes country stars Lainey Wilson and Eric Church.
In addition, Grammy Award-winning country singer Chris Stapleton will headline a special pre-fair concert.
Other highlights of the 12-day fair include carnival rides, games and livestock shows.
Find out who will perform at the fair in 2026:
When is the California Mid-State Fair? Where?
The California Mid-State Fair celebrates “the region’s rich agricultural heritage and a beloved community tradition,” its website stated.
In 2026, the fair runs Wednesday, July 15, through Sunday, July 26, at the Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave in Paso Robles, off Highway 101.
In addition to free concerts at the Frontier Stage, Mission Square Stage and other spots, the main Chumash Grandstand Arena hosts ticketed events ranging from concerts to rodeo
The outdoor venue seats offers floor seating for 14,000 people, with room for an additional 7,000 people in the bleachers and open floor area. VIP suites can hold 335 eventgoers.
Who’s playing at the Paso Robles fair in 2026?
Stapleton, whose hits include “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Starting Over,” will perform at the Grandstand Area on the eve of the fair’s opening day — Tuesday, July 14.
As of Monday, April 13, these acts were performing at the Grandstand Arena as part of the Michelob Ultra Concert Series:
Concerts at the arena will start between 6:45 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., with doors opening one hour prior to showtime.
Can I bring in food and drinks?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted at the California Mid-State Fair.
However, fairgoers can bring in sealed plastic water bottles. Vendors offer a wide variety of food and beverage options.
For an additional charge, concertgoers can upgrade their tickets to include access to the Hospitality Tent.
The Hospitality Tent, which is air-conditioned with free WiFi, features complimentary soda, water and appetizers, plus a no-host bar and private restrooms.
The tent will open one hour before showtime and will close 30 minutes after the main act goes on stage.
What is the bag policy?
“Normal-sized purses and bags are permitted” at the Grandstand Arena, the California Mid-State Fair said on its website.
“All bags are subject to search upon venue entry,” fair officials said.
Which items are prohibited at the Mid-State Fair?
Prohibited items at the California Mid-State Fair include:
- Weapons
- Narcotics and other illegal substances
- Tobacco, cannabis products, vapes and lighters
- Skateboards, hoverboards, in-line skates and bicycles
- Kites, balls and Frisbees
- Glass, aluminum cans and outside alcohol.
- Pets
- Selfie sticks
- Photography tripods and professional camera equipment
- Drones and remote-controlled surveillance devices
How can I buy fair concert tickets?
Grandstand Arena shows are not included with fair admission.
To purchase concert tickets, go to Ticketmaster.com
For more information, call the fair’s box office at 805-238-3565 or email [email protected].
Stay updated by following the California Mid-State Fair on social media at Instagram, Facebook and X.
The Tribune
Alexiah Syrai Olsen is a service journalism reporter for The Tribune in San Luis Obispo, California. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and design from The New School in New York City.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.sanluisobispo.com ’
