It’s beginning to look a lot like fair time, everywhere I go. Though the community has already been quite involved, the fairgrounds have not seemed as alive as they are this week. Tents are now up and exhibit cases are beginning to fill. The grounds are starting to look more like the fair that I know so well, and love, rather than a 72-acre field. The walking paths are beginning to line with concession stands and a few carnival rides are going up and awaiting final inspection.

 The Jurassic Journey dinosaur exhibit is also beginning to come to life and to look more like the small model we have been viewing in the fair office for several months now. The eight’ “stone” walls are in place and the special effects lighting is beginning to be installed. The finishing touches, including the 10-foot flowing waterfall and the steamy volcano, will be in place when the dinosaurs stomp in from Ohio next week.

Hundreds of horses and mules trotted into the FoodMaxx Arena and horse barn area last week for our free pre-fair horse and mule shows. A unique aspect to the horse events this year is the tribute to breast cancer awareness. Those living with or that have survived breast cancer are being recognized with a pink ribbon painted on their horse’s hindquarters.

Your Stanislaus County Fair is definitely on the uphill ascent towards opening night Friday, July 25. That means that you only have a few days left to buy your discounted tickets. Discount Fair admission and unlimited ride wristbands are on sale through 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 24.  You can take advantage of the savings online at www.stancofair.com.

10, 9, 8, 7….and counting!  See you soon.

Tony Leo is chief executive officer of the Stanislaus County Fair. He has worked in the fair industry for nearly 25 years.  This is his eleventh Stanislaus County Fair.

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