Grand staging: County fair to host two Christian festivals and a concert
DEL MAR — The San Diego County Fair, which is known for its diverse offering of rides, food and entertainment, should score big points this year with faith-based attendees by offering three major Christian concerts at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Switchfoot concert
First on the schedule is San Diego-based Switchfoot, taking the grandstand stage at 7:30 p.m. June 3, which is opening night.
Switchfoot’s fair appearance comes a month before the release of the group’s tenth album. The album will hit the streets the same week as the Switchfoot Bro-Am surfing event. In addition to the beachside gathering, the band will also hold a record release party, concert and several other events as part of its first-ever Summer Getaway, July 5 to 9.
Reserved tickets for Switchfoot, including fair admission, range from $25 to $37. A concert-only option for reserved seats is available from $16 to $22. Free, non-reserved concert seats are available on certain levels with paid admission to the fair.
Spirit West Coast-Del Mar
Second on the schedule is Spirit West Coast—Del Mar, a music festival featuring the Newsboys, Hawk Nelson, Blanca, We Are Messengers, I Am They and Citizen Way. The June 23 festival will be presented at two fair venues, including the main stage. In addition to the music, a message will be presented by evangelist Reid Saunders.
Doors open at 4 p.m., with the first concert starting at 5 p.m.
Several VIP packages are available and include prime reserved seats and access to autograph signing. The Platinum package also includes an exclusive reception at the Turf Club room, along with an event hat and tote bag.
Tickets range from $20 to $150. Tickets purchased online include fair admission. Those already holding fair admission should purchase concert tickets through the Del Mar Fairgrounds Box Office.
Gospel Festival
The 12th Annual Gospel Festival is set for June 25. Although the lineup has yet to be finalized, the event concludes with the 
Toyota Summer Concert Series performance of Shirley Caesar, set for 7 p.m. at the grandstand. Known as the First Lady of Gospel Music, Caesar has won 11 Grammy Awards and seven Dove Awards. She has released 40 albums since launching her career at age 12.
Details on the other performers will be announced later in May. The artists, including solo acts and gospel choirs, will perform on five stages.
Guests for all three concert events are encouraged to arrive at least 90 minutes early to ensure time for navigating slow traffic and finding parking spaces.
There are several restrictions, which can be viewed on the following websites: www.switchfoot.com, transparentproductions.com or www.sdfair.com.
