Marin County Fair: A Star-Spangled Celebration of History and Community
Get ready—Marin County Fair is coming back to the San Rafael Fairgrounds from July 1st to July 5th, 2026. This year’s theme, “Stars, Stripes & Stories,” feels especially meaningful.
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We’re honoring both the United States’ 250th anniversary and Marin County’s 175th year. That’s a lot of history and local spirit to celebrate.
From Novato’s hills to Sausalito’s coast, and through Mill Valley and Tiburon, neighbors all over Marin are in for something memorable. Expect entertainment, a bit of nostalgia, and lots of chances to connect.
Embrace the Spirit of “Stars, Stripes & Stories”
The theme isn’t just a slogan. It’s an open door to the stories that have shaped our nation and this quirky, beloved corner of California.
Picture yourself by San Rafael’s lagoon, fireworks bursting overhead at 9:30 PM every night. The buzz in the air? That’s Marin’s spirit, from the lively streets of San Rafael to the calm around Ross.
The fair runs July 1st to July 5th, 2026, daily from 11 AM to 11 PM. That’s plenty of time to wander, snack, and see it all.
All concerts come with general admission—no extra tickets needed. Soak up the music, dance if you feel like it, and don’t worry about hidden fees.
On July 1st, the fair opens its gates wider: kids under 12, veterans, and folks 65+ get in free. It’s a small thing, but it matters.
Creating Memories: Interactive and Historical Exhibits
There’s more than just music and fireworks. “Stars, Stripes & Stories” lets you step into Marin’s living history.
This year, everyone—from Greenbrae to Larkspur—can write Letters to the Future. These notes will become a time capsule, capturing what matters to us now. It’s a chance to look back and dream forward.
Art lovers and crafty types from Tiburon, Belvedere, and beyond can join the community paper patchwork quilt. Families can donate a 6×6-inch square, adding their own story to a shared canvas.
Pick up your square at the Fair Office before the event or grab one at the theme tent. It’s a pretty sweet way to leave your mark.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the Stars, Stripes & Stories Scavenger Hunt will lead you through the fair’s history. Expect surprises and maybe a few “aha!” moments.
Don’t miss the Marin History Museum photo exhibit, either. It’s a visual trip through decades of Fourth of July parades—proof that some traditions really do stick around.
A Lineup That Shines Bright
The headliners-dates-and-tickets/”>Island Stage is where the music happens. Headliners from every genre will pull crowds from all over Marin.
Seating is first-come, first-served, so showing up early is a good idea. Here’s who’s playing:
- July 1: The Family Stone launches the fair with their iconic sound.
- July 2: Steel Pulse brings reggae rhythms to the stage.
- July 3: Linda Perry shares her soulful voice and songs.
- July 4: The Stars & Stripes Music Fest lights up Independence Day with Pete Floyd, Mustache Harbor, Super Diamond, and Fleetwood Macrame. That’s a stacked lineup if you ask me.
- July 5: Lupita Infante closes things out with vibrant energy and style.
Showcase Your Talents and Save!
Do you love arts and crafts? Maybe you’re into cake decorating, or you’ve got a creative streak when it comes to writing or preserving things.
The competitive exhibit entries are open now for both adults and juniors! Here’s your shot to show off what you do best—and who knows, you might even snag a prize.
Check out all the details and categories at MarinFair.org/exhibits.
Are you planning a visit from Mill Valley’s winding streets or maybe from the lively neighborhoods of Novato? Don’t forget about those discounted tickets, available until June 30th at MarinFair.org.
If you ask me, grabbing tickets ahead of time just makes sense. You’ll save a few bucks and skip some hassle.
Come join everyone in San Rafael for a celebration that’s always a little surprising and a lot of fun. Marin County Fair has a way of pulling people together—it’s got history, culture, and a community vibe you just don’t find everywhere.
Here is the source article for this story: Your Family’s Summer Starts at the Marin County Fair July 1-5
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