A colorful Ferris wheel spinning against a blue sky, towering above a ticket booth at a carnival.

The Ultimate Guide to Glenn County Fairs & Events

Who is this guide for?

  • This guide is for families, road trippers, and anyone who wants to make the most of Glenn County’s events and festivals throughout the year.


Quick links:

  • The Wall That Heals — March
  • Glenn County Fair — May
  • 4th of July Celebration — July
  • Car & Bike Show — August
  • Hamilton City Levee Festival — October
  • Spook Train / Halloween at the Fairgrounds — October
  • Avenue of Lights & Lights Parade — December
  • Plan Your Stay at The Parkway RV Resort & Campground


Glenn County sits in the heart of California's Great Central Valley, about two hours north of Sacramento. It's a rural, agricultural region known for its wide open spaces, small tight-knit towns, and a strong sense of community. 



What many visitors don't realize is that Glenn County also has a full calendar of events throughout the year, from moving memorial tributes in the spring to festive holiday parades in December. Whether you're a local looking for things to do or a traveler passing through on I-5, here's a look at the top events happening in Glenn County in 2026.

The Wall That Heals — March

Kicking off the year is one of the most meaningful events to come to Glenn County. The Wall That Heals is a 375-foot traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It honors the more than 58,000 American service members who died or remain missing from the Vietnam War.



The wall will be on display in Orland from March 26 through March 29, 2026. It's free to visit and open 24 hours a day during its stay. The last time the wall came to Glenn County was 2016, when over 9,000 people attended. This is a rare opportunity, and it's worth planning a trip around.


This event is appropriate for all ages and is especially meaningful for veterans, military families, and anyone interested in American history.

A rodeo bull rider is thrown from a bucking black bull in a dirt arena, surrounded by metal chutes and spectators.

Glenn County Fair — May

The Glenn County Fair is the signature annual event of the region. First held in 1916, it has been a community tradition for over a century. Today, the fair runs four days each spring at the Glenn County Fairgrounds at 221 E. Yolo Street in Orland.



The fair is scheduled for May 14–17. It's packed with activities for families, including livestock shows and auctions, carnival rides, fair food, a pageant, auto racing, tractor pulls, and a fan-favorite demolition derby. Local 4-H and FFA youth showcase their animals and projects, making it a true celebration of the county's agricultural roots.


If you're bringing kids, plan to spend the full day. Parking is available on site, and gates typically open in the morning with evening entertainment running late. Check the official Glenn County Fair website or Facebook page for ticketing details and the entertainment schedule as the date approaches.

4th of July Celebration — July

Willows, the county seat of Glenn County, hosts its annual Independence Day celebration at Jensen Park on Elm Street. It's a classic small-town 4th of July — the kind that's getting harder to find. Expect live music, family activities, food, and fireworks lighting up the valley sky.



Jensen Park is a wide open green space right in the heart of Willows, making it easy to set up a blanket and enjoy the festivities. It's a great event for families and a perfect way to experience the community spirit that defines this part of Northern California.

Car & Bike Show — August

Every August, Willows hosts an annual Car & Bike Show that draws enthusiasts from around the region. Classic cars, custom builds, and motorcycles are all on display, making it a fun afternoon for anyone who appreciates a well-kept vehicle.



The show has a relaxed, community-fair feel where you can wander around, chat with owners, and enjoy the summer heat in good company. The exact dates are typically announced close to the event, so keep an eye on local community boards and the Glenn County events calendar.

Night view of a brightly lit carnival midway featuring game booths and an ice cream stand with people walking between them.

Hamilton City Levee Festival — October

Hamilton City is a small community on the west bank of the Sacramento River, and each October it hosts the Hamilton City Levee Festival. The event celebrates local culture and the history of the river levee system that has shaped this part of the valley for generations.



It's a smaller-scale event compared to the county fair, but it’s packed with local charm. If you're in Glenn County in the fall, it's worth the short drive to Hamilton City to take in the scenery along the Sacramento River and enjoy a uniquely regional tradition.

Spook Train & Halloween at the Fairgrounds — October

The Glenn County Fairgrounds comes alive on Halloween night with the annual Spook Train event, organized in partnership with the Orland Chamber of Commerce. Running from 5:30pm to 9:00pm, it's one of the most popular Halloween activities in the county for families with young children.



Train rides are just $5, and the evening also includes live music, a Trunk or Treat, and plenty of costumes. It's a safe, well-organized Halloween alternative that the whole family can enjoy. Costumes are encouraged, so dress up and make a night of it.

Avenue of Lights & Lights Parade — December

Glenn County closes out the year with two beloved holiday traditions. The Avenue of Lights at the Orland Fairgrounds transforms the grounds into a festive winter display with thousands of lights. Meanwhile, Willows hosts its own Lights Parade through downtown — a cheerful community procession that draws crowds each year.



Both events typically take place in December and are free to attend. They're a wonderful way to experience Glenn County's holiday spirit. Specific dates are usually announced in November, so check local listings as the season approaches.

Plan Your Stay at The Parkway RV Resort & Campground

With events spread across every season, Glenn County is well worth more than just a day trip. If you're coming from out of town, or simply want a comfortable home base while you explore, The Parkway RV Resort & Campground in Orland is the perfect place to stay.


Located just half a mile west of I-5 at Exit 619, The Parkway is ideally positioned for attending events at the Glenn County Fairgrounds and exploring the surrounding area. Our resort features large, shaded campsites, a pool, clean laundry facilities, and recommendations on the best things to do in the area. Whether you're arriving in a full-size rig or just looking for a quiet place to park for a few nights, The Parkway has accommodations to fit your needs.


Ready to make the most of your Glenn County visit? Book your stay at The Parkway RV Resort & Campground and experience everything this corner of Northern California has to offer.