Summer fun: Your guide to fairs and festivals around the foothills

(Last edited 8/1/2025) Get ready for an exciting summer filled with fun, food and family activities! The greater Sacramento region offers plenty of amazing fairs and festivals around the foothills. From county fairs to cultural celebrations, there's something for everyone this summer. Here are the events listed by date to help you plan your summer adventures: July 31-Aug. 3: Amador County Fair Where: Amador County Fairgrounds, PlymouthVisit amadorcountyfair.com for pricing and more details. Known as the "#1 small county fair" in California, this event features carnival rides, rodeo, demolition derby and traditional fair fun. Aug. 6-10: Nevada County Fair Where: Nevada County Fairgrounds, Grass ValleyVisit nevadacountyfair.com for pricing and details. Experience the beauty of "the most beautiful fairgrounds on the West Coast" with tall pines, a pond and unique food vendors at this five-day fair. Aug. 13-17: Yolo County Fair Where: Yolo County Fairgrounds, WoodlandFree admission (largest free fair in Northern California). Visit yolocountyfair.net for more details. California's largest free-admission fair offers carnival rides, demolition derby, livestock shows and live entertainment. Aug. 16-17: Sacramento Banana Festival Where: William Land Park, SacramentoVisit bananafestivalsac.org for tickets and details. Go bananas at this unique multicultural festival celebrating cultures from Asia, Africa and the Americas that use bananas as a source of food, art, and culture. Sept. 4-7: Gold Country Fair Where: Gold Country Fairgrounds, AuburnVisit goldcountryfair.com for pricing and more details. End your summer with the Gold Country Fair in historic Auburn. Sept. 11-14: Lodi Grape Festival & Harvest Fair Where: Lodi Grape Festival Grounds, LodiVisit grapefestival.com for prices and details. Celebrate the grape harvest at this 80-year tradition featuring wine tasting, grape murals, carnival rides, live entertainment and agricultural exhibits. Planning your summer funThese fairs and festivals offer great opportunities to create lasting memories with family and friends. Most events are affordable or free, making them perfect for summer outings. Remember to: - Check websites for exact dates and ticket prices.- Arrive early for parking at popular events.- Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated.- Whether you're looking for thrilling rides, tasty food, cultural experiences or family entertainment, our region's summer festivals have it all. Start marking your calendar now for a summer full of fun! The guide is by Jessica Harrison l Discovering family-friendly destinations and adventures beyond our backyard. For questions or comments and to add your event, email Jessica at jessicah@goldcountrymedia.com .