Friday highlights include everything from, llama limbo to racing pigs, and headlining music from platinum-selling band O.A.R.
Friday kicks off the weekend with a full day of action at the California State Fair, and music takes center stage as platinum-certified rockers O.A.R. headline the Toyota Concert Series at 8 p.m. on the Sky River Casino Stage.
Known for their passionate fanbase, high-energy shows, and anthemic sound, O.A.R. (short for Of A Revolution) might just be one of the music world’s best-kept secrets. The Maryland-based band has quietly sold out Madison Square Garden multiple times, packed Red Rocks Amphitheater, performed live on New Year’s Eve in Times Square.
O.A.R.
The band has amassed a following through decades of touring and hit-making. Tonight’s concert is expected to be a highlight of the fair’s entertainment calendar.
In addition to O.A.R., Friday’s schedule includes a strong lineup of live performances across the fairgrounds. The ICanGoToCollege.com Promenade Stage features a full slate of music and dance acts throughout the day, beginning with M. Swans Dance Institute at 11 a.m., followed by the Forever Dancerettes LLC at noon, and Cre8tive Collective at 1 p.m. Precision Dance Center performs at 2:30 p.m., with music from ZAYWAVS at 3:30 p.m. and a spoken word showcase by Poetic Culture at 4:30 p.m. Evening sets include RockOn! Alex Cha at 6 p.m., and the night closes out with two funk-filled sets from Sacramento favorite Ideateam, performing from 9 to 10:50 p.m.
Singer-songwriter Jimmy Ashley brings a soulful acoustic performance to the Don Julio Outlaw Bar & Stage from 5 to 7 p.m., adding a laid-back vibe for fans looking to unwind with a drink and some tunes.
Today is also SMUD Giving Friday at Cal Expo, offering free admission to guests who bring five non-expired canned goods between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The fair runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the full-day schedule features entertainment, exhibits, and experiences for all ages.
At the Big Barn, animal lovers can enjoy a full lineup of livestock showcases, including llama and alpaca showmanshipat 8:30 a.m., halter classes at 10 a.m., and goat competitions beginning at 4 p.m. The evening includes interactive events like a llama demonstration at 6 p.m., followed by the fan-favorite llama limbo at 6:30 p.m., and a walk-a-llama/alpacasession open to the public at 7 p.m.
Culinary programming is in full swing at the SaveMart California Kitchen Cooking Theater. The day begins with Cooking Trivia sign-ups at 10 a.m. and competition at 11 a.m., followed by featured demonstrations from Bohm Bakes(noon), Gypsy Cowgirl (2 p.m.), Dumpling House (3 p.m.), a SMUD-sponsored demo (4:30 p.m.), and Nosh by Joshat 6 p.m. The Taste of California Classroom will highlight California-grown wines from 1 to 2 p.m. and olive oils from 2 to 4 p.m.
For thrill-seekers, Dodge Ram Trucks returns with two popular experiences: free rides in the “Ramdemption” monster truck and a test drive course featuring the Ram 1500. Younger fairgoers will find plenty to enjoy with camel rides, a petting zoo, and the rock climbing wall, all open throughout the day.
Live entertainment continues across multiple stages. The All-Alaskan Racing Pigs hit the track at 2:30, 4:30, 6:30, and 8:30 p.m. Funkanometry performs at 7 and 9 p.m. at the Kids Adventure Outpost, while The Drumheads bring their beats to the Adventure Stage at 2, 4, and 6 p.m. At the Olive Grove, Sea Lion Splash performs at 5:30, 7:30, and 9:30 p.m.
Back at the Expo Center, guests can catch a mix of comedy and action with the hypnotist at 5, 7, and 9 p.m., and the Tanzanite African Acrobats at 4, 6, and 8 p.m. Captain Jack Spareribs returns to the Pirate Stage in Building D at 3, 5, and 7 p.m.
Inside the Expo buildings, guests can explore immersive exhibits throughout the day. Building 1 hosts the always-popular Super Secret Silent Disco, where guests grab wireless headphones and dance in sync. Building 2 features the colorful Candy Maze Selfie Exhibit, perfect for sweet-toothed visitors and Instagram-worthy shots. In Building 3, the interactive POPnology Exhibit introduces futuristic technology including 3D printing, robotics, and virtual reality.
Building 4’s Wild World Adventure introduces visitors to rescued animals from around the globe, while Building 5houses the CaLOWfornia Love lowrider exhibit, celebrating custom car culture with vibrant style and community pride. Vintage goods and handmade décor are featured in Building 6’s Rustic Charm Market, while Building 7showcases the Fine Art & Photography Exhibit, highlighting visual work from across California.
Building 8 is home to the Student Showcase & California Crafts, presenting outstanding youth projects and handcrafted items from local artists. Over in Building A, visitors can relax in the beach-themed California Authors Booth, explore the California Fresh Exhibit, and pick up travel inspiration from Amador and Mono County tourism displays. Other highlights include Life’s Big Ag-Venture, the Northern California Pigeon Fanciers exhibit, and the U.S. Postal Service booth, where guests can learn about stamp collecting and pick up postal-themed souvenirs.
Building B is the hub for food and agriculture programming with the Taste of California Classroom, SaveMart Kitchen demonstrations, Tasters’ Row, the Best of California Pavilion, the Friends of the Fair Bakery, and exhibits by the California Floral Society, Tree Circus, and the UC Master Food Preservation Center.
More Weekend Entertainment Headliners to Come
The weekend lineup continues with more big-name performances. Brothers Osborne hit the stage on Saturday, July 26, bringing their award-winning country rock sound to Cal Expo. On Sunday, July 27, the California State Fair wraps up its concert series with R&B legends En Vogue, closing out 17 days of music and entertainment in unforgettable style.
For full schedule details and ticket information, visit www.calexpostatefair.com.
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