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The California Poppy Festival™ is the Citypoppy fest flyer of Lancaster’s annual celebration of California’s state flower.

From April 17-19, 2026, the event will honor the beauty of the poppy with live entertainment, amusement park rides, festival food, live animal exhibits, and countless activities for all ages at the AV Fair & Event Center.

Lancaster boasts one of California's most abundant crops of vibrant poppies, the California state flower. During poppy season, the City, in partnership with the AV Fair & Event Center, puts on an event to welcome and introduce visitors to the Lancaster area. The annual Festival plays host to the colorful poppies, which are an Antelope Valley springtime attraction. 

We can’t wait to see you there! Please note that entry gates close an hour before the event ends.

2026 Event Times:

Friday, April 17: 4-10 PM

Saturday, April 18: 12-10 PM

Sunday, April 19: 12-8 PM

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Be a part of the action! Share your festival experience on social media with:  #CaliforniaPoppyFestival or tag us @CityOfLancasterCA

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Three nights. Three high-energy shows. The arena lights up at 6 p.m. each night with can’t-miss action.

Friday – Figure 8 Races & Autocross

Fast turns, tight corners, and full-throttle competition.

Saturday – Demolition Derby

Crashes, chaos, and crowd-favorite smashups.

Sunday – Monster Truck Nitro Tour

Massive trucks. Big air. Non-stop adrenaline.

Important Information

  • Arena events are separately ticketed and do not include admission to the California Poppy Festival™.

  • Arena seating is festival-style (general admission).

  • Arena event tickets do not include entry to the California Poppy Festival™ grounds.

  • Events are held rain or shine.

  • Schedule is subject to change.

Non-stop family fun all weekend long inside the Harley Davidson Building. Magic, juggling, and interactive entertainment take the stage daily.

Friday, April 17

5:00–5:30 p.m. – Magic Show
6:00–6:30 p.m. – Juggling Show
7:00–7:30 p.m. – Magic Show
8:00–8:30 p.m. – Juggling Show
9:00–9:30 p.m. – Magic Show

Saturday, April 18

1:00–1:45 p.m. – Magic Show
2:30–3:15 p.m. – Juggling Show
4:00–4:45 p.m. – Magic Show
5:30–6:15 p.m. – Juggling Show
7:00–7:45 p.m. – Magic Show
8:30–9:15 p.m. – Juggling Show

Sunday, April 19

1:00–1:45 p.m. – Magic Show
2:30–3:15 p.m. – Juggling Show
4:00–4:45 p.m. – Magic Show
5:30–6:15 p.m. – Juggling Show
7:00–7:45 p.m. – Magic Show

Important Information

  • All performances take place inside the Harley Davidson Building (Kid’s Zone).

  • Included with California Poppy Festival™ admission.

  • Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Schedule subject to change.

The California Poppy Festival™ takes place in the heart of Lancaster, making it easy to access whether you’re driving in or staying locally.

🚗 Driving: The festival is held at the AV Fair & Event Center, with ample parking available nearby. Follow event signage for designated parking areas.

🏨 Staying Overnight? Make the most of your Poppy Festival experience by staying at a nearby hotel! Explore local accommodations and find the perfect place to rest after a day of festivities by visiting Destination Lancaster.