Date Festival returns for 2026 with new attractions

The annual Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival will run for three weekends in February and March.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival, a long-running annual event celebrating the region's date palm industry, is set to return in 2026 with a variety of new attractions and activities over the course of three weekends in February and March.

Why it matters

The Date Festival is a major economic driver for the Riverside County region, drawing thousands of visitors each year to experience the unique culture, cuisine, and agricultural heritage of the area. The addition of new elements helps keep the event fresh and engaging for both returning and new attendees.

The details

The 2026 edition of the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival will run for three long weekends: February 12-16, February 19-22, and February 26 through March 1. New attractions this year include an expanded date-themed food court, a revamped carnival midway with more thrill rides, and a larger showcase of local artisans and craftspeople.

  • The 2026 Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival will run for three long weekends: February 12-16, February 19-22, and February 26 through March 1.

The players

Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival

An annual event celebrating the region's date palm industry, drawing thousands of visitors to experience the unique culture, cuisine, and agricultural heritage of the Riverside County area.

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What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival will go on sale to the general public on December 1, 2025.

The takeaway

The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival remains a cherished annual tradition that showcases the agricultural bounty and cultural richness of the region, evolving each year to provide fresh experiences for both longtime attendees and new visitors.