Phoenix Fairgrounds Events

Visit the Arizona State Exposition and Fairgrounds in Phoenix.Arizona state contour with Capital City against blurred USA flag image by Stasys Eidiejus from Fotolia.com

Originating in 1884, the Arizona State Fair was a meeting place for farmers and citizens to show off livestock, share agricultural successes and have a good time. Over time, there have been many changes, but the fairgrounds in Phoenix still offer opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy themselves. With a constantly changing calendar of events, there is something for everyone at the Arizona Exposition and State Fair.

Maricopa County Home Shows

The Maricopa County Home Shows are an annual event at the fairgrounds in Phoenix held in the spring and fall. Home improvement vendors are invited to set up display booths to give demonstrations, sell products and market their companies. Visitors enjoy kitchen and bath displays, decorating techniques and cleaning tips. The show schedules hourly seminars ranging in subjects from green energy to patio design. A wine-tasting seminar is also available. Gardeners can walk through the landscaping displays and ask questions about local gardening tips.

Various musical performances and concerts are scheduled monthly at the Arizona State Fairgrounds in the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. See rock artists such as Megadeath and Lynyrd Skynyrd, pop stars like Selena Gomez, or rappers such as Snoop Dog. Tickets are available at the Coliseum Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Check the Arizona State fair website for upcoming shows.

The annual Arizona State Fair 5K and Fun Run/Walk is held each October on the fairgrounds during the state fair. Participants receive five state fair return admission tickets, raffle tickets for ride passes, a T-shirt and concert tickets. Medals are awarded to age-group winners. Discount advanced registration is available.

The Arizona State Fair is held in the tradition of the original state fair every fall. Purchase advance season passes, ride and game passes, wristbands and parking passes on the state fair website. Exhibits include arts and crafts, photography, animal sciences and livestock contests. The fair hosts a special kids area and family-friendly themed days, like Dinosaur Day. Sporting demonstrations include rodeo, boxing and arm wrestling. All concerts are free with fair admission. Kids can enjoy classic carnival rides like the Tea Cup and Tilt-A-Whirl rides, as well as newer experiences like the Hi-Miler Rollercoaster.