Monterey Fairgrounds - Monterey, CA Tickets

Located in Monterey, California, Monterey Fairgrounds is a festival ground that first opened its doors in 1936. Currently, it’s under the ownership of the State of California.

Find the Best Seats at Monterey Fairgrounds

Monterey Fairgrounds has a total capacity of 10,000. However, this figure can vary for events with unique venue configurations.

Monterey Fairgrounds Schedule

Monterey Fairgrounds is the hub for several events. The venue serves as the stage for concert, festival and racing events, in addition to hosting other functions.

Want to ensure a smooth entry to Monterey Fairgrounds? We've got you covered! From security to accessibility, we've compiled all the info you need for a hassle-free arrival.

Security at Monterey Fairgrounds Monterey

Security at Monterey Fairgrounds is taken very seriously. All guests are required to go through security checks before entering the venue. Typically, security checkpoints tend to get longer as you get closer to the start time of the event. We recommend planning ahead so you don’t miss anything. Please note that Monterey Fairgrounds has a strict bag policy.

Monterey Fairgrounds Monterey Bag Policy & Prohibited Items

Permitted items include clear bags (12\" x 6\" x 12\"), one empty water bottle or camel bag, blankets, lawn mats, dancing shoes, hula hoops, rings, bells, non-aerosol sunscreen, strollers, wagons, bicycles and skateboards (checked at bike valet), non-professional cameras with lenses smaller than 2\", medical devices, breastfeeding devices, and diaper bags. Prohibited items are weapons, knives, pepper spray, fireworks, explosives, butane, alcohol, illegal substances, drones, UAVs, aircraft, pets (except service animals), chairs, tents, pop-ups, canopies, backpacks, purses or bags larger than 14\" x 14\", squirt guns, laser pens, cameras with detachable lenses, selfie sticks, GoPros, tripods, chains, chain wallets, spiked jewelry, spray paint, large markers, glass containers, outside beverages (except milk/formula for babies), outside food, coolers, unauthorized vendors, and unapproved promotional materials.

What to Bring to Monterey Fairgrounds Monterey

When you come to an event at Monterey Fairgrounds, make sure to bring your ticket and a valid ID, especially if you intend to purchase alcohol. We recommend bringing a credit or debit card and also some cash. Because this is an outdoor venue, it can get a little cold during the winter months (and sometimes year round), so we recommend checking the weather report to consider bringing extra layers and maybe even a blanket. Plus, it might be worth it to carry a rain jacket or poncho just in case the weather changes.

Your experience at Monterey Fairgrounds extends beyond the event itself. Discover delicious food and drinks, convenient transportation options, and more to create an unforgettable memory.

Monterey Fairgrounds primarily operates on a cashless basis. This implies that while some vendors may still accept cash, most onsite purchases are done with digital wallets or debit and credit cards. Although Monterey Fairgrounds accepts most credit cards (such as Visa and Mastercard), it is prudent to carry a small amount of cash for tipping and for the few vendors that might accept it inside and outside the venue.

Indeed, the venue provides Wi-Fi access. We suggest connecting to the Wi-Fi network immediately upon arrival, as cellular service can sometimes be unreliable.

Monterey Fairgrounds is located at 2004 Fairground Road, Monterey, California, 93940. We've got you covered with all the options to get there, from public transportation to convenient rideshares.

How Early Should I Get to Monterey Fairgrounds?

Arrival times may vary depending on the event, but we recommend arriving at the venue about an hour before the scheduled start time. This gives you some breathing room in case of traffic congestion, parking difficulties, visits to the merchandise store, or if you want to grab some food and drinks before the event starts.

Rideshare Drop-off and Pickup Location

At Monterey Fairgrounds, there are specific pick-up locations for rideshare users. You’ll find the designated pick-up spots at Fairground Road. Using rideshare to attend an event is a great option because it eliminates the stress of finding parking, which can often be scarce and expensive. Additionally, ridesharing promotes safety by providing reliable transportation if you plan on drinking alcohol during your visit.

Closest Bus Stop to Monterey Fairgrounds

For a budget-friendly option, the nearest bus stop is located at Fremont / Palo Verde.