The 141st Arizona State Fair is set to bring six weeks of family entertainment to Phoenix this fall, featuring the new “Grow Happiness” theme that celebrates community joy and Arizona traditions. The festival runs September 19 through October 26, operating Thursday through Sunday only.
What Makes This Year Special
This year introduces “September Nights,” an exclusive evening event from September 19-28 featuring special entertainment and significant savings. Phoenix families can enjoy unique performances including Wrestling Superstars Live, Shanghai Circus Acrobats, and Japanese drum shows during these special September evenings.
For over 140 years, the Arizona State Fair has served as a gathering place for Arizona residents from across the state, and 2025 promises to continue this beloved tradition at the Phoenix fairgrounds on 19th Avenue and McDowell Road.
Major Entertainment and Concerts
The Veterans Memorial Coliseum will host several high-profile concerts as part of the Arizona State Fair’s entertainment lineup. Performers include local favorites The Format (September 27), pop trio AJR (October 3), Mexican band Reik (October 10), rapper 2 Chainz (October 24), and heavy metal legends The Cult (October 25). Concert tickets include fair admission.
Food, Rides, and Attractions
Traditional fair favorites return including kettle corn, bacon, crepes, cheeseburgers, tacos, corn dogs, hot chicken, and lobster. Phoenix visitors can experience classic carnival rides operated by Ray Cammack Shows, plus livestock shows, agriculture displays, and petting zoos.
October introduces “$5 Food Flight Fridays,” allowing fairgoers to sample various foods for just $5 each. The fair also features weekend farm tours and agricultural centers showcasing Arizona’s farming heritage.
Money-Saving Opportunities for Phoenix Families
Several deals help make the fair more affordable for Phoenix residents:
- “Dream Pass” offers 10 rides/games plus admission for $45 (approximately $120 value)
- “Feel Good Friday” allows free admission with 7 canned food donations
- Children 7 and under receive complimentary admission
- Advance tickets cost $10.29 versus $17.50 at the gate
Event Details
Dates: September 19 – October 26, 2025
Time: Thursday-Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price: $17.50 (ages 8+), Free (ages 7 and under)
Phone: (602) 252-6771
Location: 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Tickets: Buy Advance Tickets Online
Transportation and Parking
The fairgrounds offer two paid parking lots, plus a free Park n’ Ride shuttle service from Phoenix College running every 20 minutes during fair hours. This makes accessing the Phoenix fair more convenient for families throughout the metro area.
The Arizona State Fair attracts over 1 million guests annually, ranking as the 3rd highest attended state fair nationally. This major Phoenix event significantly impacts local tourism, provides entertainment for Valley families, and celebrates Arizona’s agricultural and cultural heritage.
