The San Diego County Fair is open through July 4. In the interest of public safety, activities involving direct animal interaction at the Fair have been suspended.

All guests are encouraged to wash their hands after any contact with animals or their living area, as well as prior to eating or drinking.

Perform The National Anthem

The information below is from the 2019 Fair, and it will give you an idea of what to expect in 2020. Please check back soon!

Perform the National Anthem

Help us honor America each morning of the Fair at our opening ceremony by performing the national anthem. After the ceremony, you are welcome to spend the day at the Fair!

Applications are now closed for the National Anthem Program.

Apply Now
Entertainer Handbook

The Fine Print

Who can perform the anthem?

Singers or musicians, performing solo or in a group. Although the majority of those who volunteer to perform the national anthem are singers, we welcome instrumental groups.

What happens during the ceremony?

We raise the American and California flags at the O’Brien Gate (main gate) during the daily opening ceremony, and someone sings or plays the national anthem during the flag raising. You will be expected to arrive at the Fairgrounds by 10:00AM. The ceremony starts about a half hour after that, and the gates open to the public at 11:00AM, a half hour after the ceremony.

What guidelines should I follow?

We ask that performers do a straightforward version of the national anthem, very close to its original composition. The national anthem is one component of the entire opening ceremony, and its performance should blend with the other components to achieve our goal of honoring our country.

Can I use a recorded background track?

No. Singers must perform a cappella, and instrumentalists will have only microphones for amplification.

Is there a deadline to apply?

No, but the earlier you apply, the more likely you will get a date that works for you. There are 27 days of the Fair, which means 27 opportunities to perform.

Does it cost anything?

No cost, in fact, we hope you will stay and enjoy the Fair as our guest. We issue one credential per performer, and provide a parking pass.

Need help?

Get in touch online or call us at (858) 792-4259.

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We’re the San Diego County Fair and we send fun emails.
If you sign up for our email list, we pinky swear that we’ll only send you the good stuff. (must be at least 13 years old)