RivCo Fair & National Date Festival Steps Into 'New Era' With 'Refreshed Look'

INDIO, CA — The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival will step into a new era to celebrate its 78th year, organizers announced Friday.

From Feb. 12 to March 1, the beloved event hosted by Fantasy Springs Casino is returning with a "refreshed look," with new immersive spaces like a dedicated museum that will educate attendees on the decades-long history and legacy of the fair.

This year's theme is "Return to the Oasis," featuring an Oasis Lounge & Tiki Bar hideaway that will offer a place to cool off, enjoy Hawaiian music, Polynesian dancers and fire spinning performances on the Luau Stage.

Guests will also see a return to fan-favorites, such as the event’s 1001 Nights legacy, which is getting a facelift this year as it will be blended with a mid-century style inspired by Greater Palm Springs’ iconic architecture.

“We’re always looking for ways to make the things people love even better, while adding new surprises to bring guests back and welcome those who haven’t visited in a while,” said Chris Pickering, CEO of Pickering Events.

The biggest addition this year will be the National Date Festival Museum, which will be hosted inside the Sands of Time building. The exhibit will offer a look at date farming, the festival's history and the agricultural roots of the Coachella Valley.

Attendees will also get to enjoy the Hall of Ribbons, which will boast competive quilts, fine art and baked goods. The Cave of Wonders will showcase gems and minearals while the Palm Pavillion will highlight the Valley's signature crop — dates.

On Valentine's Day, the event will also feature Out at the Fair, an LGBTQ-inclusive day offering live music, dance-fitness activities and a drag show with performers from One Eleven Bar, highlighting visibility, celebration and community.

Animal exhibits remain a central part of the Fair & Date Fest, emphasizing its agricultural roots alongside the midway attractions. Visitors can explore the petting farm and livestock exhibits, where children and families can learn about animal care and the role agriculture plays in fair traditions and everyday life.

Daily entertainment is included with Fair & Date Fest admission and takes place across multiple stages and throughout the grounds. Scheduled attractions include the All-Alaskan Racing Pigs, JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show, the Globe of Death motorcycle stunt show, Magic of Rafael, Science Wizard, Sea Lion Splash, livestock exhibits, the petting farm and roaming performers.

“The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival reaches communities across the county and supports programs that matter,” Riverside County Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez said. “Every visit helps sustain youth exhibits, arts and baking competitions, gem and mineral showcases, and the agricultural traditions that make Riverside County unique.

Get more information here.