Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my ticket delivery delayed?
A delivery delay is a period of time between when a ticket is purchased and when it becomes accessible. Event organizers use delivery delays to help prevent fraud by ensuring all purchases comply with ticket limits and that no unfair technology was used to buy tickets in bulk.
If your order has a delivery delay, tickets will not be sent and mobile ticket barcodes will not be available until the delay has been lifted. Once the delay ends, your tickets will be delivered automatically.
Delivery details and timing are provided in your purchase confirmation email and within your order details. If you have not received your tickets or cannot access your ticket barcode within two days of the event, please contact our support team for assistance.
What is 3D Secure?
3D Secure is a tool that allows us to check that the credit / debit card used for payment is actually yours and on the contrary, to guarantee you that your card is not being used for fraud.
For this purpose, your Bank will previously have asked you to link your card to a mobile phone number. During the payment process, you should receive a 6 digits code. You will then need to enter this code on our site to process your payment and validate your order.
Are tickets from resale or third-party sites valid?
We cannot verify tickets purchased through resale platforms or third-party sellers. These tickets are not authorized by us, and we cannot guarantee entry if a ticket is invalid, duplicated, or fraudulent.
The San Diego County Fair is not responsible for tickets purchased outside of the SDFair.com website and is not liable for any losses, scams, or denied entry related to third-party or resale tickets.
Should I purchase my tickets in advance?
Advanced purchase of tickets is strongly encouraged to reduce contact points at the admission entrances and make your entrance to the San Diego County Fair faster and easier. Doing so also saves you money!
Please note: The only authorized website to purchase tickets is sdfair.com, If you purchase tickets from any other source, the San Diego County Fair cannot guarantee the validity of the tickets and you risk being denied admission, refunds and/or exchanges.
Can I still buy admission tickets at the gate?
Yes, you can still purchase tickets at the admission entrances; however, it is a cashless experience meaning we accept credit/debit cards only. Apple Pay, Google Pay and other Tap-to-Pay methods are also accepted at our parking and admission gates.
Will I be able to pay with cash for my tickets?
The parking, admission, and carnival experiences for the San Diego County Fair are cashless.
Cash will not be accepted for parking, admission tickets, or carnival rides & games at the San Diego County Fair.
Convenient Cash-to-Credit ATM machines are available in select locations to exchange cash for a debit card.
Please note: There is a small fee to receive a debit card from a reverse ATM, additionally, cards may take up to five minutes to be activated after purchase from any cash-to-credit ATM.
Credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay and other Tap-to-Pay methods are also accepted to purchase tickets for parking, admission, and the midway.
Can I bring my pet to the Fair?
Pets are not allowed on the Fairgrounds - for the safety of all guests and animals. The only animals allowed on the grounds are service animals and animals on exhibit or used in entertainment
Is there a discount for Military or Veterans?
Yes, we’re proud to offer discounts to Military members and Veterans! You can purchase your admission tickets through GOVX
now (Verify here) and the MWR/ITT offices at military bases
starting in early May, where special pricing is available. It’s our way of saying thank you for your service—get your tickets today and enjoy the experience!
I have a grandstand performance or Summer Nights at The Sound ticket. Does it include Fair admission?
All premium entertainment tickets -- such as the Grandstand and Summer Nights at The Sound -- include admission to the Fair on day of the show, meaning you can spend all day enjoying the Fair before you head to the performance. You do not need a separate Fair ticket.
Parking is not included and must be purchased separately. Free parking is available at Torrey Pines High School on the weekends and everyday at Horsepark.
What's the policy regarding standing during concerts at the San Diego County Fair?
IN SEATED AREAS:
Avoid Prolonged Standing: If you’re in a seated area, try not to stand for extended periods. Standing can obstruct the view of those behind you.
Stand During Appropriate Moments: If you need to stand, do so during suitable moments, such as when everyone else is standing for an encore.
STANDING-ROOM-ONLY AREAS:
Be Considerate: Be aware of the people behind you and avoid blocking their view.
Mind Personal Space: Move with the music, but watch out for swinging limbs and hips to prevent unintentional collisions.
Remember, concert experiences are shared, so let’s all be considerate and enjoy the music together!