Hawaii 50th State Fair
Enjoy the RV holiday of a lifetime in the 50th state of the United States - Hawaii. Book your flights, rent an RV, and let the state fair begin.
Event information
What is the Hawaii 50th State Fair?
The Hawaii 50th State Fair represents a cherished Hawaiian tradition spanning over a century, uniquely running for an entire month rather than the typical one to two weeks of mainland state fairs. Managed by E.K. Fernandez Shows—a family entertainment company organizing Hawaiian carnivals since 1903—this event brings together island families and mainland visitors for an authentic fair experience in paradise.
The fair historically takes place at Aloha Stadium, located at 99-500 Salt Lake Boulevard in Honolulu, mere meters from historic Pearl Harbor and 'Aiea Bay. This strategic location makes it easily accessible for both Oahu residents and tourists exploring the island's attractions.
Fair Highlights Include:
- Full-size midway with modern carnival rides, including Wacky Worm Coaster and Sling Shot
- Live circus performances and monster truck shows
- Roaming daily entertainment and weekend live music
- Beer garden for adult guests
- Petting zoo for families with young children
- Over 20 rides and multiple entertainment stages
- Traditional fair games and prize competitions
- Authentic Hawaiian cultural elements
The month-long format provides exceptional flexibility for visitors planning summer Hawaii vacations, ensuring you can fit the fair into your itinerary regardless of travel dates.
For those planning to explore the fair with a campervan, discover Honolulu campervan rentals perfect for your island adventure, or explore Oahu RV rentals for the largest selection on the island.
When and Where is the Hawaii 50th State Fair Held?
The annual 50th State Fair was cancelled for the summer of 2025 due to ongoing stadium renovations. The stadium's upgrades are expected to be completed in 2028, leaving the fair without its traditional home for several summers. Check the official 50th State Fair website for current location and dates.
Historical Fair Information (2024 Season):
Dates: May 24 - July 7 (approximately 6 weeks)
Location: Aloha Stadium, 99-500 Salt Lake Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96819
Hours:
- Fridays: 6:00 pm - close (typically 10:00 pm - midnight)
- Saturdays: 4:00 pm - close
- Sundays: Noon - close
Attendance: Over 50,000+ visitors annually throughout the month-long run
The fair traditionally operates Memorial Day weekend through early July, capturing the peak summer vacation season when families from across the mainland visit Hawaii. The extended run makes it accessible regardless of when you book your island getaway.
Tickets
How Much Does the Hawaii 50th State Fair Cost?
The Hawaii 50th State Fair utilizes a unique Fun Pass card system where admission and all activities are purchased using credits loaded onto a reusable card.
Fun Pass Pricing (Historical 2024 Rates):
- Fun Pass Card: $20 (includes $20 in loaded credits)
- Admission-only ticket: $10 (entry without ride access)
- Children under 40 inches tall: Traditionally free admission
- Parking: $9 per car (cash only at gates)
- Fun Pass cards can be reloaded with additional credits as needed
- Credits used for fair admission, carnival rides, games, food, and special attractions
The Fun Pass system eliminates the need to purchase separate tickets for individual attractions—simply load your card with credits and use them throughout the fairgrounds. Cards remain valid at all E.K. Fernandez Shows carnivals and fairs, so any remaining credits carry over to future events.
Explore Hawaii 50th State Fair RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
If you're from Hawaii, then there's no effort at all involved in getting to the 50th State Fair. The two main roads of the island are H-1, H-2, and H-3, and these cross near the southern end of the island of Oahu. You should be able to drive your RV with minimal hassle, but allow extra time to deal with the traffic that has the same plan as you.
If you are traveling from one of the 49 other states in the United States, then you will need to book a flight to the island of Oahu. You can fly into one of the other islands, but you would need to take a ferry or secondary flight to arrive near the state fair. From here, you can meet up for an RV rental. While vehicles can travel by boat to Hawaii, it can be tricky and pricey to transport them to and from the mainland. It's often simpler to obtain a rental once you reach the islands.
Remember to look for road and weather alerts for Honolulu and the island of Oahu in addition to what you observe for the larger region of the Hawaiian Islands.
Parking areas
The Aloha Stadium boasts plenty of parking for hundreds of vehicles. These are marked out for cars, but there may be a few dedicated extended spots for RVs and buses. If these are full, arrive early to secure on-street parking. Otherwise, park at your accommodation provider and make use of public transport to the fair.
Public Transportation
Hawaii has many buses in operation to take you to the central parts of the island. Because Pearl Harbor, a significant tourist attraction, is next door to the fair, you can usually find a bus in the center of Oahu that will take you to the area. Otherwise, you can utilize private ride services at competitive rates.
Where to stay
Onsite
Overnight camping is NOT permitted at Aloha Stadium. Campervans can park for fair attendance during operating hours, but must relocate to permitted campgrounds for overnight stays.
Nearby
Camping Options on Oahu
Since overnight camping isn't available at the fair venue, Oahu provides several camping options requiring advance permits through the City & County or State park systems.
Featured Oahu Camping Locations:
Malaekahana Beach Campground(North Shore) — This private beachfront campground on Oahu's windward coast offers the rare advantage of drive-up camping where you can park your campervan directly at your site. Full hookups available for water and electricity at select sites. The facility features improved bathroom facilities compared to county-run campgrounds, though showers remain cold (standard for Hawaii). Book through the private campground website rather than county permits. Approximately 45 minutes from Aloha Stadium.
City & County Campgrounds — Honolulu operates 17 campgrounds at 14 parks and botanical gardens across Oahu, offering 218 total campsites. Permits available online at camping.honolulu.gov, opening two Fridays before the desired camping date at 5:00 pm HST. Friday-Wednesday camping periods (no Thursday camping). Costs $32.75 for 3-day permits or $53.22 for 5-day permits, accommodating up to 10 people, 2 tents, and 3 vehicles per site. Note: Campervans typically park in parking lots rather than at tent sites.
Bellows Field Beach Park(Windward Oahu) — Weekend-only camping (Friday-Wednesday) on Oahu's best beach, shared with military training operations during weekdays. Better maintained than typical county parks due to military oversight. Book through the City & County system. Approximately 30-40 minutes from Honolulu.
Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden(Kaneohe) — Unique inland camping experience within 400 acres of tropical botanical gardens against the Ko'olau Mountains backdrop. Three camping areas with 30 total campsites. Free advance permit required. Bug repellent is essential in beachside locations. Book through the City & County website. Approximately 25 minutes from Honolulu.
State Park Camping — Hawaii Division of State Parks manages four Oahu campgrounds: Ahupua'a 'O Kahana State Park, Malaekahana State Recreation Area, Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area, and Sand Island State Recreation Area (Friday-Sunday only). No camping Wednesday-Thursday nights. Permits are available 30 days in advance through
camping.ehawaii.gov. Fees: $20/night for Hawaii residents, $30/night for non-residents (up to 10 people). Important: Hawaii state campgrounds are NOT designed for vehicle camping—sleeping in campervans is prohibited except at Wai'anapanapa State Park on Maui.
Important Oahu Camping Regulations:
- All camping requires advance permits—no free "boondocking" allowed
- Most campgrounds are tent-only; campervans park in lots, not at campsites
- Friday-Wednesday camping windows (no Thursday overnight stays at most locations)
- Book 2-4 weeks advance for county sites, 30 days for state parks
- Self-contained campervans essential (limited hookups available)
- Permits show exact campsite assignments and vehicle information
Explore comprehensive camping options through the RV Parks & Campgrounds near Oahu directory for up-to-date availability and booking information.
Getting around
Once you arrive in Hawaii, and more specifically, near Honolulu, you’ll find navigation is a breeze. You can park your RV then navigate the fairgrounds on foot with minimal hassle. Everything you need for an enjoyable fair experience is within a short walking distance, including the over 20 rides and multiple shows. While enjoying the Pacific Ocean, you may also want to consider taking a ferry to one of the other Hawaiian Islands for a day of exploring.
What to pack
Clothing
June in Hawaii offers ideal weather for outdoor events, with comfortable temperatures and low rainfall—perfect for extended fair visits and island camping adventures.
Fair Day Attire:
- Lightweight shorts and breathable t-shirts or tank tops
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals (you'll be on your feet all day)
- Sun hat or baseball cap for shade
- Sunglasses for bright tropical sun
- Light long-sleeve shirt or cover-up for sun protection
- Swimsuit (for beach camping before/after fair)
Evening at Camp:
- Light sweater or hoodie for cooler evenings (temps dip to low 70s°F)
- Long pants for mosquito protection at inland campgrounds
- Flip-flops or camp shoes
- Lightweight rain jacket (June typically dry, but occasional showers possible)
Hawaii's casual island style means comfortable, practical clothing works everywhere—no need for formal attire even at restaurants.
Gear
Pack essential items for both fair attendance and island camping, remembering that many Oahu campgrounds lack amenities requiring self-contained setups.
Fair Essentials:
- Valid ID (required for beer garden entry if 21+)
- Cash for parking ($9 exact change helpful)
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated in tropical heat)
- Sunscreen SPF 30+ (reapply frequently)
- Portable phone charger/power bank
- Small backpack or lightweight bag for carrying items
- A camera or a smartphone for capturing memories
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Camping Gear (if not included with rental):
- Extra water containers (many campgrounds have limited water access)
- Coolers with ice for food storage (most sites lack refrigeration)
- Beach chairs and towels
- Snorkeling gear for windward coast beaches
- Bug repellent (essential at inland/botanical garden campgrounds)
- Headlamp or flashlight for nighttime navigation
- Trash bags for campsite cleanup
- Firewood (if campfires are permitted at your campground)
Most campervan rentals include cooking equipment, bedding, and basic camping supplies, but confirm inclusions when booking.
Health & Safety
Hawaii's tropical climate and intense sun require proactive health precautions for comfortable, safe, fair, and camping experiences.
Sun Protection:
- High SPF sunscreen (30-50+) applied liberally and frequently
- Sun hat with a wide brim
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Lip balm with SPF protection
- Light, breathable long-sleeve options for extended sun exposure
Hydration & First Aid:
- Multiple water bottles (dehydration risk in heat and humidity)
- Electrolyte packets for intense sun exposure days
- Personal first aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptic
- Any prescription medications needed during the trip
- Motion sickness remedies if taking ferries to the neighbor islands
- Insect bite relief cream (especially for botanical garden camping)
Medical Services:
Medical facilities and pharmacies sit within two miles of Aloha Stadium, providing peace of mind for any health concerns during fair attendance. For emergencies, dial 911 and alert the nearest fair official or security personnel.
Where to eat
Cooking
One of the joys of campervan travel is preparing meals with fresh local ingredients while enjoying Hawaii's incredible outdoor settings. Most Oahu campgrounds allow cooking, though specific rules vary by location.
Stock up on groceries at stores along Salt Lake Boulevard near the fairgrounds or larger supermarkets in Honolulu before heading to your campground. Hawaii offers excellent fresh fish, tropical fruits, and local specialties perfect for camp cooking.
Check with your campground about communal cooking facilities, fire restrictions, and propane use. Many beach campgrounds prohibit open fires due to drought conditions, making camp stoves essential. Your campervan's built-in kitchen provides convenient meal preparation regardless of campground amenities.
Restaurants
Honolulu Restaurants
Hawaii's capital offers world-class dining representing every cuisine imaginable, from authentic Hawaiian plate lunches to high-end farm-to-table restaurants. The island's multicultural heritage means exceptional Asian, Pacific Islander, and fusion options throughout Honolulu and the surrounding areas.
Don't miss trying local specialties like poke (raw fish salad), kalua pork, loco moco, spam musubi, shave ice, and malasadas during your visit. Food trucks scattered across the island offer incredible meals at budget-friendly prices.
Vendors
Fair Food
The Hawaii 50th State Fair delivers authentic carnival cuisine with island flair, offering everything from traditional fair favorites to local Hawaiian treats.
Fair Food Highlights:
- Classic carnival fare: candy, soft pretzels, pizza, funnel cakes, popcorn, candied nuts
- Turkey legs, corn dogs, and other handheld favorites
- Hawaiian specialties and local food vendors
- Fresh-squeezed lemonade and tropical fruit smoothies
- Shave ice (Hawaiian-style snow cones)
- Beer garden for adults 21+ with a valid ID
All food purchases use Fun Pass credits loaded onto your card, eliminating the need for cash at individual vendors. Card reloading stations are available throughout the fairgrounds.
Safety
Security
Hawaii 50th State Fair organizers prioritize guest safety with comprehensive security measures throughout the event.
Security Measures:
- Fair officials and security personnel patrol the grounds continuously
- Police presence from the nearby Honolulu Police Department (4 miles away)
- Bag checks may be conducted at entrances
- Lost child/person stations available
- First aid facilities are staffed during operating hours
- Well-lit pathways and clearly marked emergency exits
Approach any security personnel, fair official, or police officer with questions or concerns. Management reserves the right to close early due to weather or other circumstances, with no refunds issued.
Visitor Safety Tips:
- Keep valuables secured in your vehicle or at camp
- Supervise children closely in crowded fairgrounds
- Stay aware of surroundings, especially in evening hours
- Store Fun Pass cards securely (they function like cash)
- Note your parking location before entering the fairgrounds
Weather
June represents one of Hawaii's best weather months, with warm temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall—ideal conditions for outdoor fair activities and beach camping.
Typical June Weather:
- Daytime temperatures: 80-85°F (pleasant for outdoor activities)
- Nighttime temperatures: Low 70s°F (comfortable for camping)
- Rainfall: Lowest levels of the year (occasional brief showers possible)
- Trade winds provide natural cooling throughout the day
- UV index very high—sun protection essential
A brief passing shower won't typically affect fair operations, as many attractions and food areas provide cover. Management monitors weather conditions and may close temporarily for severe weather, though this is rare during June.
Beach & Ocean Safety:
If camping at coastal locations, respect ocean conditions. North Shore beaches feature powerful winter waves (calm in summer), while windward beaches offer generally calmer swimming. Always check with lifeguards about current conditions, rip currents, and safe swimming areas.
Medical
Medical facilities and pharmacies sit within two miles of Aloha Stadium, ensuring quick access to healthcare if needed during your fair visit or Oahu stay.
Medical Resources:
- First aid center at fairgrounds during operating hours
- Honolulu Police Department: 4 miles from the stadium
- Medical centers: Within 2 miles
- Pharmacies: Multiple locations within 2 miles
- Emergency services: Dial 911 from any phone
Stock your campervan's first aid kit before departing for Hawaii, including tropical-specific items like jellyfish sting relief, coral scrape treatment, and extra sunburn care products.
