The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival is a fun-filled event that that looks like a fair but acts like a festival! What really sets this County Fair apart is that it’s also a Date Festival. The Indio National Date Festival is held at the Fairgrounds and has been ongoing since 1921. As you well know, Indio is no stranger to festivals.
However, the Indio Date Festival sets itself apart by paying homage to the desert, dates, and California spirit. This festival of course pays tribute to the regional crop… dates. The fair initially began as a celebration of the end of the date harvest. The National Date Festival and Fair carries with itself a strong sense of international flair that makes it truly unique.
The entertainment this year promises to dazzle and bring you the spectacular. The annual Arabian Night Musical Pageant will be held on the Pageant Stage. This musical pageant has been held at the Indio Date Festival since 1948. This award-winning show combines themes from the classic tale and rich humor. There are also a number of concerts featuring some truly excellent live music!
If you’re a thrill seeker, then you’ll definitely enjoy the Carnival rides. From the Quasar to Speed, there are rides catering to people of all ages. There’s also a kids’ carnival and daily activities specially designed for children! The Kids’ Alley contains mimes, puppet shows, and a variety of other shows made just for kids. There is also an endless amount of interactive exhibits that’ll keep you and your family busy for hours.
There are also Camel Races that are sure to dazzle! Apart from celebrating the dates, the Riverside County Fair also honors the California desert. This really brings out the desert theme of the Indio Date Festival. Here you’ll find camel races, ostrich races, all in the wonderful weather of the springtime Desert. The temperatures should hover in the 70’s throughout the festival. The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival is held at the Riverside County Fairgrounds each year in February. It annually brings a carnival atmosphere to the Desert. Riverside County Fair and Date Festival 2019 is set for February 15-24!
Indio is right in the middle of the Colorado Desert, about 125 miles east of LA. Worried about getting there? Xpress Shuttles make festival transportation easy and affordable. Don’t miss out!
Again, don’t forget to catch the Arabian Night Musical Pageant and watch the Queen of the Fair in all her glory! The Riverside County Fair & Date Festival is a hallmark event in the Coachella Valley. It mixes rich desert tradition with a celebration of today’s community. Organize your festival transportation ASAP and come enjoy the food, activities, and entertainment. There’s plenty of enjoyment here to be shared by all. Locals and visitors alike!