The 74th annual County Fair and Date Festival kicks off Friday

The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival officially opens at 10:00 Friday morning. Opening ceremonies begin at 9:30 a.m. Festival-goers can get in for free until 3 p.m. on opening day.

Preparations for the 74th annual Riverside County Fair and Date Festival have been underway for months.

“We’re really looking forward to getting the fair started this year. It starts on Valentine’s Day and goes until the 23rd,” said Veronica Casper, fair manager. 

Casper gave News Channel 3’s Madison Weil a sneak peek of some of this year’s returning attractions, including the many rides, games and activities. 

“We have lots for the entire family to do. There’s a “Kiddie Carnival” and there are different exhibits for the kids to enjoy with their parents,” said Casper. 

The classic festival food trucks are also back offering dozens of delicious options. 

This year, the festival has several live cameras set up on the grounds. Fans can watch what’s happening on-site in real-time here. 

Festival-goers can also feed farm animals, enjoy local art and outdoor concerts on five separate nights. 

If you buy your tickets before the fair opens on Friday, you’ll get them at a discounted price: $22 instead of the usual $28. You can purchase tickets here. 

“It’s ten days of family fun. There’s something for everyone to enjoy,” said Casper.