Celebrating 150 Years:
San Joaquin County Fair, Then and Now

The San Joaquin County Fair opens June 16 in Stockton for its 150th year.

If you grew up in San Joaquin County, you’ve probably been visiting the fair since you were a kid. Each summer, Stockton is home for five days to the vibrant Central Valley community and the fairgrounds are filled with food, games, livestock, art, and music. Started in 1860 by the Second District Agricultural Association of the State of California, their constitution pledged to stimulate local agriculture and the domestic economy. Using live music, mechanical rides, and horse racing to draw in crowds, members of the Association were able to stir interest in farming by exhibiting their best produce, livestock, and equipment to enthusiastic onlookers.

Today, the fair strives to maintain the original principles of the Agricultural Association. Amid the carnival midway and rock concerts, there are prizes for best homemade jam and largest tomato, livestock auctions, and other fun ways for citizens to reconnect with the importance of local agriculture. Perhaps this is why, even as the fair approaches its 150th birthday, it continues to retain its original charm year after year. Following are our favorite fair attractions through the years, and what you can expect for the fair’s 150th birthday.

The Races:

Horse racing has been one of the most popular attractions at the fair since the start. The best turnout ever recorded occurred in 1888 when eight thousand people crowded the grandstand to place their bets and cheer on the West Coast’s finest horses. Today, the fair still attracts eager betters with its own grandstand and mile-long track. Eight to ten races take place each day, the first starting at 12:45 p.m., and bets begin at as little as $2.

The Music:

The fair has come a long way since the 1800s when it featured acts like the Stockton Cornet Band. In recent years, we haven’t seen many cornets, but luckily we’ve been able to watch talents the likes of Faith Hill, Smokey Robinson, Peter Frampton, REO Speedwagon, and then some. Even more impressive is that these concerts are free with the purchase of regular fair admission. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis and all shows start at 8 p.m.

The Locals:

Nothing has more county charm than the local community showing off their cleverest crafts, craftiest quilts, tastiest pies, and fattest livestock. The first fair in 1860 awarded prizes for categories like “best confectionary and cake,” and “best embroidery.” Today the fair still appeals to people with all hobbies and interests by letting them exhibit their creations. This year, some of the categories include photography, homemade wine, arts and crafts, foods and confections, clothing and textiles, and much more. You can also support the spirit of local agriculture by visiting the junior livestock exhibits and auctions. Each year, the fair teams up with 4-H and the Future Farmers of America (FFA), allowing young people to raise their own livestock and auction it at the fair. As a result, kids and teens can learn about agricultural practices and get real world experience.

The Food:

One of the best parts of the fair: candy apples, cotton candy, and funnel cakes galore. Snacking on these classic carnival treats can be linked to many fond childhood memories. You can be sure to find them all on the grounds this year. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, there will be also be plenty of culinary options, including Chinese, Mexican, and of course, Big Bubbas BBQ, where you can find their giant barbecued turkey legs.

2010 Concert Line-Up

Wednesday, June 16: Jose Feliciano
Thursday, June 17: Sawyer Brown
Friday, June 18: Kool and the Gang
Saturday, June 19: Tower of Power
Sunday, June 20: Lupillo Rivera

When and Where:

June 16-20, Noon-10 p.m.
Adult admission: $9 door, $6 advance
Children admission: $5 door, $3 advance
Thursday is free for children and seniors.
www.sanjoaquinfair.com