Think your family has a hidden artist, baker, or DIY pro at home? The 2026 LA County Fair is officially calling for entries, and this is your chance to turn everyday creativity into a blue-ribbon moment.
Each spring, the Fair celebrates creativity of all kinds through its Adult and Youth Home Arts and Culinary Competitions. From quilts and photography to jewelry, LEGO builds, and baked goods, there’s something for almost every interest and skill level. Even better, you do not have to be a professional to enter. These competitions are designed for everyday makers, crafters, and creators.
What Can Families Enter?
The list is wide and wonderfully varied. Some popular categories include:
- Arts & Crafts like painting, scrapbooking, mosaics, anime drawings, and decorative art
- Needle Arts including knitting, crochet, embroidery, and weaving
- Photography, Pottery, Quilting, and Jewelry
- Costumes inspired by fantasy, sci-fi, history, or Halloween
- Culinary entries such as baked goods, preserved foods, and themed table displays
- Youth-friendly options like LEGO builds and creative projects
Some categories fill quickly or already have waitlists, so early planning really helps.
Why This Is a Great Experience for Kids
Entering a Fair competition is more than winning a ribbon. It teaches kids how to follow guidelines, meet deadlines, and proudly share something they made themselves. Seeing their work displayed at the Fair builds confidence, encourages creativity, and makes a regular Fair visit feel extra special.
And for parents, it’s a fun way to support hobbies that already happen at the kitchen table, sewing machine, or craft corner at home.
Important Dates to Know
Here’s a simple timeline families should bookmark:
- Online entry deadline: Thursday, February 12, 2026
- Entry drop-off: Saturday, March 7, 2026, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Mail-in deadline: Items must arrive by Thursday, March 5, 2026, by 4:00 p.m.
- Fair display dates: May 7–31, 2026 (closed Mondays except Memorial Day, plus Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
- Pick-up day: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (one day only)
All entries are displayed in the Home Arts Building (Expo Hall 5) during the Fair, making it easy for families to visit and celebrate their hard work
 |
How to Get Started
Start by reading the rules for your chosen category, then submit your entry online. Each item must be entered separately, and entries must be under the name of the person who created them. Once registered, you will receive details about drop-off and next steps.
š Online registration:https://lacdiy.fairwire.com/
If you have questions, the Fair’s Competition Coordinator is happy to help:
Chris Stoner
909-865-4232
stoner@fairplex.com
Even if you’re not entering this year, the Home Arts exhibits are always worth a slow walk. They’re full of ideas, creativity, and reminders that some of the best Fair moments come from things made at home.
