Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival Returns to Indio

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The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival, a beloved annual event, is set to return to Indio, California this Thursday, February 13th. The festival, which runs through March 1st, promises family-friendly fun, thrilling carnival rides, fair food, and of course, an abundance of delicious date-based treats.

Why it matters

The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival is a longstanding tradition that celebrates the region's agricultural heritage and the date palm industry. The event draws thousands of visitors each year, providing an economic boost to the local community and showcasing the unique cultural and culinary offerings of the Coachella Valley.

The details

The festival will take place at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio. Attendees can expect a wide variety of carnival rides, live music and entertainment, food vendors serving classic fair fare as well as specialty date-based dishes, and educational exhibits highlighting the history and cultivation of dates in the region.

• The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival kicks off on Thursday, February 13, 2026.
• The festival will run through Sunday, March 1, 2026.

What’s next

Organizers are expecting large crowds for the festival's return, and have encouraged attendees to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the gate.