San Diego County Fair
The San Diego County Fair, is a county fair held every summer at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, California. The fair is a major draw for San Diego County residents; in recent years, attendance figures have risen above a million annually, reaching a height of 1,250,320 in 2004.
History
The fair began in 1880 as an agricultural fair. The location moved from place to place for several years until finally settling on the Del Mar Fairgrounds in 1936.
In 1954, the fair's name changed to the Southern California Exposition and San Diego County Fair. In 1970, this was shortened to the Southern California Exposition. The fair was again renamed in 1984 to the Del Mar Fair, which lasted until 2002, when the original name was reinstated, although it is sometimes still informally referred to as the "Del Mar Fair" by locals.
Features
The fair features many daily musical and talent performances from artists of varying notability. There are also dozens of contests, ranging from agricultural to artistic efforts.
Like many county fairs, animal exhibits are abundant throughout the Del Mar Fairgrounds as well as rides and games for people of all ages. As of 2007, there are about 80 different rides. There are also exhibits glorifying San Diego County's heritage as well as exhibits specially designed for the fair's current theme. For example, the theme for 2007 is "A Salute to Heroes," which involves an exhibit honoring such people. The fair's theme changes annually, making the fair somewhat different each year.
San Diego County's children are honored in the Kid's Showcase, which displays various artwork created by kids in kindergarten through twelfth grade. School yearbooks are also displayed as well as woodwork put together from scratch by noted high school students. All of this is included in the fair's various contests.
One of the biggest draws for fair goers is the variety of food offered. There are many fair classics as well as some other interesting delicacies for people to try. Some include beef sundaes, fried Twinkies, and apple fries. Something new is added every year, like fried Cola in 2007! There's something for everyone to eat!!
The Fourth of July brings events celebrating our countries independence including a parade and a large fireworks display in the evening.
It is considered as one of the largest events in San Diego County, with an average daily attendance of 50,000.
When and Where
Each year, the fair runs from mid-June through the Fourth of July.
The fair is held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, California off of the Via De La Valle exit on the 5 Freeway.
External links
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