Santa Maria Fairpark Guide
Santa Maria Fairpark: Where Community Celebrates! Guide
The Santa Maria Fairpark is more than just a fairground; it's a vibrant hub of community activity in Santa Maria, California. Home to the annual Santa Barbara County Fair, as well as numerous other events throughout the year, the Fairpark offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages. From thrilling carnival rides and agricultural exhibits to live music and delicious food, there's always something exciting happening at the Fairpark. While not a historical site in the traditional sense, the Santa Maria Fairpark has a rich history of its own, deeply intertwined with the agricultural heritage of the Santa Maria Valley. For decades, it has served as a gathering place for farmers, ranchers, and community members to showcase their products, celebrate their traditions, and connect with one another. The annual Santa Barbara County Fair is a highlight of the year, drawing crowds from across the region to experience the best of local agriculture, entertainment, and cuisine. Visitors to the Santa Maria Fairpark can enjoy a wide array of activities, depending on the event taking place. During the Santa Barbara County Fair, you can explore livestock exhibits, admire prize-winning produce, ride thrilling carnival rides, enjoy live music performances, and indulge in classic fair food like corn dogs, cotton candy, and funnel cakes. Throughout the year, the Fairpark also hosts concerts, festivals, trade shows, and other special events, offering something for everyone. Santa Maria is known for its Santa Maria-style barbecue, a regional culinary tradition featuring tri-tip beef seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic, grilled over red oak wood. Look for vendors serving this local specialty at events held at the Fairpark.
Transportation
The Santa Maria Fairpark is accessible by public transportation via the Santa Maria Area Transit (SMAT) system. Several bus routes serve the area around the Fairpark. Check the SMAT website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Routes 1, 2, and 4 all have stops within walking distance.