Free Bus Rides, Late-Night Trains Offered For Marin County Fair

MARIN COUNTY, CA — Visitors heading to the Marin County Fair this summer can skip the car and take advantage of free bus rides, late-night SMART train service and free bicycle parking, county officials said.

The fair runs July 1-5 at the Marin County Fairgrounds in San Rafael.

All Marin Transit fixed-route buses countywide will be free during the fair, with additional buses and extended service hours available throughout the event. The fairgrounds are served directly by Routes 35 and 49, while Routes 71 and 233 stop nearby.

"Marin Transit is proud to support the Marin County Fair again with free fares and added service to get people safely home," said Marin Transit General Manager Robert Betts. "We offer free rides for youth all summer long, so the fair is a great opportunity for first-time riders to discover transit before using it throughout the summer."

SMART will also add late-night service after the fair's fireworks shows. Additional southbound and northbound trains will depart from the Marin Civic Center station following the nightly displays, officials said.

"SMART is proud to partner with the Marin County Fair again to provide a safe, and stress-free way for families and visitors to enjoy one of Marin's favorite traditions," said SMART Board Vice Chair Mary Sackett. "Additional train capacity and late-night service after the fireworks makes it easier to leave the car behind and avoid traffic and parking challenges."

Free bicycle parking will be available daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. near the main gate outside the Veterans' Memorial Auditorium.

"With Marin Transit free fares, late night SMART trains to accommodate those who wish to see fireworks, and free bike parking, visitors have many ways to get to the Marin County Fair," said Steve Dow, director of the Marin County Cultural Services Department. "We hope visitors will take advantage of the many transportation options available and leave the cars at home."

Visitors arriving by car should note that parking at county lots will cost $25 and will be cashless.

Officials said guests can speed up entry by using the express lane if they bring a clear bag or no bag at all.