Usher in the Spring and Summer with the Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival!

With its verdant, rolling hills and rich soil, Santa Maria produces some of California’s (or perhaps the planet’s) sweetest, most luscious strawberries. Whether it be their juiciness or the intoxicating smell wafting from the fields, there’s something special about these locally grown berries that separates them from the pack. 

While people drive far and wide to visit the city’s fresh produce stands to purchase a basket or three of this beloved fruit, one of the favorite ways to celebrate the strawberry season is the annual Santa Maria Strawberry Festival. 

In April, every year, the Santa Maria Fairpark hosts the town’s annual Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival. As one of the first strawberry festivals of the season, the city rolls out its agricultural red carpet, continuing its legacy of promoting this exquisite fruit brought straight to you from local farms.  

From strawberry shortcakes to strawberry margaritas, from carnival rides and live music to an exhibit of Santa Maria’s businesses, this festival has something for everyone. 

Anticipated carnival rides include a Ferris wheel, a roller coaster, a funhouse, a petting zoo, bumper cars, pony rides, clowns, and balloon art. Brand new to this year’s event is the Chalk Festival, featuring a gallery showcasing artistic talent. 

There’s an opportunity for little ones to join in the fun with a specially designated chalk area (included in admission). 

For all of the car buffs out there, come enjoy the play on this year’s “Strawberry Cruizin” theme and cruise on by the Classic Car Show displaying cars from the 1930s – 1970s. 

And of course, don’t forget about the traditional Strawberry Pie-Eating Contest and Strawberry Queen Coronation.

The Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival gates are open each day from noon-10:00 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for youths (ages 6-11) and seniors (age 62+) with unlimited ride carnival wristbands costing $30. 

The Santa Maria Fairpark is located at 937 South Thornburg Street. For out-of-town guests seeking accommodations, Santa Maria offers several great choices, including the historic Santa Maria Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites, Radisson, and the Holiday Inn. 

For more festival information, including updated events, please call (805) 925-8824 or visit santamariafairpark.com.