California Poppy Festival

To celebrate the annual poppy bloom (even though this year’s wildflower season was slower than most), Lancaster hosts its own county fair dedicated to the bright orange state flower. But don’t expect a garden party; instead, you’ll find a weekend full of live entertainment, thrill rides, games, fried food, live animal shows (starring sea lions and reptiles), monster trucks and even a demolition derby at the AV Fair & Event Center. While you’re in town, make sure to stop by the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve to see if you can spot any blooms.