Visitors heading to the 2026 Marin County Fair can skip the traffic, parking fees and post-fireworks gridlock thanks to a slate of expanded transit options.
From Wednesday, July 1 through Sunday, July 5, a variety of free and expanded transportation options will be available to help fairgoers reach the Marin County Fairgrounds in San Rafael while avoiding traffic and parking hassles. The effort includes free rides on Marin Transit buses, late-night SMART train service following the nightly fireworks shows and complimentary bicycle parking near the fair entrance.
Marin Transit will offer free rides on all countywide fixed-route bus routes throughout the five-day fair. Additional buses and extended service hours will also be available. The fairgrounds, located adjacent to Civic Center Drive, are directly served by Routes 35 and 49, while Routes 71 and 233 stop nearby.
“Marin Transit is proud to support the Marin County Fair again with free fares and added service to get people safely home,” said Marin Transit general manager Robert Betts. He noted that youth ride free on Marin Transit throughout the summer, making the fair an opportunity for first-time riders to become familiar with the system.
The free-fare program does not apply to Marin Access Paratransit, Marin Access Shuttles or the Muir Woods Shuttle. However, passengers who enroll in advance for the fair’s low-sensory carnival event on July 2 at 10am may receive complimentary Marin Access Paratransit trips. The low-sensory event will operate without strobing lights or music.
For rail riders, SMART will add capacity and operate special late-night departures from the Marin Civic Center station after the fireworks. Additional trains will depart southbound at 9:55pm and northbound at 10:05pm and 10:35pm. On July 4, SMART will operate on its holiday and weekend schedule. Youth and seniors ride free on SMART year-round.
“SMART is proud to partner with the Marin County Fair again to provide a safe and stress-free way for families and visitors to enjoy one of Marin’s favorite traditions,” said SMART board vice chair and Marin County Supervisor Mary Sackett.
Cyclists will find free bicycle parking available daily from 11am to 11pm near the main gate in front of the Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium.
“With Marin Transit free fares, late-night SMART trains to accommodate those who wish to see fireworks and free bike parking, visitors have many ways to get to the Marin County Fair,” said Steve Dow, director of the Marin County Cultural Services Department.
Visitors arriving by car should note that parking costs $25 and is cashless. Fair organizers also recommend using the express security lane by bringing a clear bag—or no bag at all.
More information is available at marinfair.org.
