Big Hat Days 2025

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87TH ANNUAL

APRIL 5 & 6, 2025

EXPERIENCE THE EXCITEMENT OF BIG HAT DAYS IN OLD TOWN CLOVIS

5 & 6, 2025 – A Tradition 87

For nearly nine decades, the Clovis community has come together to celebrate its deeprooted heritage with an event that has become one of the largest street festivals in the Central Valley—Big Hat Days. Originally established in 1938 as a way to honor the hardworking farmers and ranchers who helped build Clovis, this annual festival has grown into a beloved tradition that attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Organized by the Clovis Chamber of Commerce, Big Hat Days stretches across 15 blocks of Old Town Clovis, offering a weekend full of shopping, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Whether you are a longtime attendee or discovering the event for the first time, this is the perfect opportunity to explore everything Clovis has to offer.

This celebration is made possible by the dedication of community volunteers, local businesses, and the City of Clovis, whose support has helped the festival continue to thrive. A special thank you to Table Mountain Casino Resort, the event’s presenting sponsor, for making Big Hat Days an unforgettable experience for families, food lovers, and shoppers alike.

Event Details

Location: Old Town Clovis, along Pollasky Avenue

Dates & Times:

• Saturday, April 5

9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Sunday, April 6

9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Parking: Free parking is available in nearby lots and at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds. Handicap parking

is designated at the Water Tower lot, located just north of the Rodeo Grounds.

A Weekend Full of Shopping, Food, and Entertainment

Big Hat Days brings together a wide range of vendors, food booths, and entertainment, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

Visitors can explore a diverse selection of local and regional vendors, offering everything from handmade artisan crafts and fine photography to home décor, clothing, and children’s toys. The festival is also a fantastic place to discover unique businesses showcasing specialty products and services. Of course, no visit to Big Hat Days is complete without picking up a signature big hat to wear throughout the event.

Food & Drinks

Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy, with a wide variety of classic festival favorites and unique culinary delights. Indulge in kettle corn, cinnamon rolls, shaved ice, corn dogs, and gourmet tacos,

Years in the Making

or try something new like crispy chicken, loaded Gyro Fries, or fusion-style wonton tacos. With so many flavors to explore, Big Hat Days is the perfect place to grab a bite and experience some of the best street food the Central Valley has to offer.

For those looking to relax and enjoy a drink, the Michelob ULTRA Beer Garden, located at Bullard and Woodworth, will feature a lively atmosphere with live country music playing throughout the weekend. This area is open to attendees 21 and over and offers a great place to unwind while soaking in the festival experience.

Kids Zone & Carnival Rides

Families with children will find plenty of entertainment in the Kids Zone, where little ones can enjoy activities such as bounce houses, games of skill, face painting, balloon animals, a petting zoo, and pony rides. Carnival rides will also be available, providing thrills and excitement for kids of all ages.

Live Music & Entertainment

Music is an essential part of the Big Hat Days experience, and this

year’s lineup promises to keep the energy high all weekend long. Local country bands will take the stage at the Michelob ULTRA Beer Garden, giving festival-goers the perfect opportunity to kick up their heels and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Whether you love classic country tunes or enjoy discovering new local talent, the festival’s music scene will not disappoint.

A Proud Clovis Tradition

Big Hat Days is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of the Clovis community and its rich history. Each year, thousands of visitors from across the San Joaquin Valley and beyond make their way to Old Town Clovis to take part in this time-honored tradition. The Clovis Chamber of Commerce is proud to continue hosting an event that brings people together to support local businesses, enjoy great food, and create lasting memories.

Stay Connected & Plan Your Visit

To stay up to date on event details, vendor lists, entertainment schedules, and more, follow the Big Hat Days Facebook and Instagram pages and use the hashtag #BigHatDays2025 to join the conversation.

Mark your calendar and make plans to join us for Big Hat Days on April 5 & 6, 2025. Whether you come for the shopping, the food, the entertainment, or simply to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of Old Town Clovis, this festival offers something for everyone.

For more information, visit www.clovischamber.com.

BIG HAT DAYS Attractions

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Big Hat Days 2025, where excitement, laughter, and classic carnival fun fill the streets of Old Town Clovis! This year’s festival promises a fantastic lineup of rides, games, and attractions.

Spin into excitement on the miniTeacups, where six colorful cups swirl and twirl for a whimsical experience. Bounce to your heart’s content in the bounce house play land. Soar through the air on the Swing Carousel, gliding and spinning for a breezy thrill, or gallop away on the racing horses, a funfilled way to embrace the festival spirit!

Looking for more thrills? Take a ride on the Dune Buggies, or enjoy a scenic view from the Ferris Wheel, offering a delightful way to take in the sights and

sounds of the festival. These attractions and more can be found along 4th Street between Clovis Avenue & Woodworth and Pollasky Avenue between 8th and 9th Streets.

But the fun doesn’t stop with the rides! Festivalgoers can get creative with face painting or grab personalized balloon animals. Animal lovers won’t want to miss the petting zoo, featuring adorable, interactive animals, and pony rides that add a charming touch to the festivities.

Join the celebration at the 87th Annual Big Hat Days, where fun and excitement fill the streets of Old Town Clovis! Whether you’re here for the rides, the entertainment, or the festival atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

BLOCKS OF OLD TOWN CLOVIS ARE USED FOR THE EVENT

MISCELLANEOUS VENDORS

FOOD VENDORS

ATTRACTIONS AND EXHIBITS

NON-PROFIT GROUPS

SQUARE FOOT BEER GARDEN

LIVE BANDS

1,251 $252 $118 $72

Local residents’ average spending during Big Hat Days 15 350 62 35 30 10,000 7

Hotel & motel rooms in Clovis. All are booked during Big Hat Days

Average daily spending for out-of-town hotel stays during the event

Average daily spending per day for out-of-town visitors, excluding hotel stays

$19,756,914

SPONSOR Spotlight A GRATEFUL SALUTE TO OUR PARTNERS AT BIG HAT DAYS

For 87 incredible years, the Clovis community and its neighbors have gathered to celebrate Big Hat Days, a cherished tradition that continues to thrive with enthusiasm and excitement. The Clovis Chamber of Commerce is honored to host this beloved two-day event each year, and we extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors and partners. Their unwavering support has helped make this year’s Big Hat Days the best one yet.

We are thrilled to welcome Table Mountain Casino Resort as the presenting sponsor of Big Hat Days. Their dedication to community engagement and exceptional entertainment aligns seamlessly with the spirit of our festival. Michelle Heredia-Cordova, Tribal Chairperson of Table Mountain Rancheria, emphasized, “Partnering with the Clovis Chamber of Commerce aligns perfectly with our ongoing commitment to community development. Table Mountain Rancheria believes that a vibrant business community is the foundation of a strong, thriving community. Through our collaboration with the Clovis Chamber, we aim to actively support the local economy and foster an environment where businesses can thrive.” Attendees are encouraged to visit the Table Mountain Casino Resort booth

at the corner of Pollasky and Bullard Avenue to extend their appreciation.

One of the most popular attractions at Big Hat Days is the Michelob ULTRA Beer Garden, made possible by Donaghy Sales and Michelob ULTRA, our exclusive beer sponsor. Guests can enjoy live country music and dancing while being served a refreshing beverage by our dedicated Big Hat Days volunteers. The Michelob ULTRA Beer Garden is located at Bullard and Woodworth, next to the Clovis Elks Lodge. Please note that attendees must be 21 years of age or older to enter.

We are proud to welcome an outstanding group of Big Hat Days event sponsors who are helping bring this event to life. Club Pilates, European Wax Center - Clovis, and Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers will host booths at the corner of 5th and Pollasky, while Clovis Family Dentistry will be located on Pollasky between 5th and Centennial Plaza. Valley First Credit Union and Lint Sweep will have booths at the corner of 4th and Pollasky, and T-Mobile will be present at Clovis Avenue and 5th Street.

A special thank you goes out to our Premier Partners, whose ongoing support strengthens our community beyond Big Hat Days. We deeply appreciate Visit Fresno County, Caglia Environmental,

and Noble Credit Union for their continuous contributions.

Our media partners play a crucial role in sharing the excitement of Big Hat Days with the community. KSEE24 and CBS47 will have a booth on Pollasky just north of 5th Street, while iHeartMedia will be stationed at Pollasky and Centennial Plaza. Their efforts help spread the word and ensure strong attendance for the event.

Big Hat Days would not be complete without a cold drink in hand. Thanks to Pepsi, our official beverage sponsor, bottled water, soda, and tea will be available throughout the festival. We extend our gratitude to the Boy Scouts of America, Sequoia Council Troops, for operating these booths. Attendees are encouraged to stop by and grab an ice-cold Pepsi.

For 111 years, the Clovis Rodeo Association has been a vital part of the Clovis community, and we are incredibly grateful for their partnership. Thanks to their generosity, free parking for Big Hat Days will be available at the Rodeo Grounds, with assistance from the dedicated Fresno County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post 459.

Each year, Old Town Clovis transforms into a vibrant festival space, and we sincerely appreciate the local business community for their cooperation. We extend a special thank you to Community

West Bank, Educational Employees Credit Union, Cigars LTD, and all businesses in Old Town Clovis for their support in making this event possible.

An event of this scale would not be possible without the dedication of our incredible volunteers. This year, approximately 100 volunteers from diverse backgrounds— including students, business owners, community leaders, and service members—are helping make Big Hat Days a fun, safe, and successful event. Their hard work and commitment are deeply appreciated.

Our partnership with the City of Clovis is essential in making Big Hat Days possible. We extend a heartfelt thank you to the Clovis Police Department, Clovis Fire Department, Clovis Utilities, City of Clovis Administration, City Council, and all departments that help ensure the safety and success of this event. Their dedication allows Clovis to remain a wonderful place to live, work, and celebrate.

On behalf of the Clovis Chamber Board of Directors and the Clovis Chamber of Commerce staff, we extend our sincere gratitude to everyone involved. We hope you have an amazing time at the 87th Annual Big Hat Days.

Greg Newman

President & CEO, Clovis Chamber of Commerce

VENDOR Spotlight

BubbleBee: Elevating Flavor with Handcrafted Drinks and Korean Street Food

Born in Clovis, BubbleBee is setting a new standard in handcrafted beverages and Korean street food. This innovative brand is blending the traditional art of boba with bold American flavors, offering an experience you won’t find anywhere else.

At BubbleBee, the mission is simple: to bring high-quality, fresh beverages and the vibrant zest of Korean street food to every customer. They aspire to make the ordinary extraordinary, constantly challenging the norms and staying ahead of trends with a relentless focus on creativity and innovation.

With locations in both Fresno and Clovis, BubbleBee continues to grow its vision of creating a place for people to connect over delicious food and refreshing drinks.

Visit BubbleBee in the Bullard Food Court during Big Hat Days or are lotions below.

Fresno: 7070 N West Ave, Fresno, CA 93711

Clovis: 1845 Herndon Ave, Clovis, CA 93611

IG and FB@ Bubblebeeusa

fresno bully rescue

chapman jewelry

Chapman Jewelry would love to see you at Big Hat Days! Come see our beautiful collection of toe rings, permanent jewelry, ear cuffs, western rodeo and beach styles. The western styles include hand-picked rare turquoise beads and original Chapman designs. Nancy Chapman started the business over 40 years ago and now she continues the tradition with her daughter Tara. Chapman Jewelry is local to Oakhurst, and they come down each year for local staple festivals like Big Hat Days, Vintage Days and the Big Fresno Fair. Look for the pink tents on Pollasky between 3rd and 4th street at Big Hat Days, you can’t miss them! www.Chapmanjewelry.com, Instagram/Facebook/tiktok @Chapmanjewelry

Fresno Bully Rescue is thrilled to be part of Big Hat Days in Clovis once again! For over a decade, we’ve been honored to participate in this incredible community event, spreading awareness and finding loving homes for our amazing rescue dogs. Be sure to stop by our booth on Pollasky near 3rd, where we’ll have adorable, adoptable dogs waiting to meet you! It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about our mission, support rescue efforts by grabbing some fun merch, and maybe even find your new best friend. As a non-profit dedicated to rescuing and rehoming bully breeds, we rely on community support to continue saving lives. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @fresnobullyrescue or visit our website at www.fresnobullyrescue.org to connect with us. We can’t wait to see you at Big Hat Days—come say hi and meet your future furry family member!

mosaic yard art

Main creek pest solutions

Welcome to Main Creek Pest Solutions, a locally owned and operated pest control company serving Fresno, CA and the surrounding areas. Our founders, Bryan and Justin, are combat veterans and have a deep understanding of the pest control industry.

At Main Creek Pest Solutions, we offer comprehensive pest control services to residential and commercial clients. Our team is committed to providing exceptional service and sustainable solutions to ensure a pest-free environment. Our founders bring their military values of integrity, honesty, and dedication to their business, and they strive to create a culture of trust and reliability in our company.

Come see us at our booth on Pollasky and 5th during Big Hat Days!

Hello, we are Gail and Chantell, two best friends that have spent the last 35 years laughing and making memories together. What started as a weekend project of making mosaics for our yards, quickly turned into our passion, and with our family and friends’ encouragement, our business was born. Six years and hundreds of rocks and pots later, our love for mosaics has only grown.

We proudly sell our art at trade shows in the Central Valley and along the central coast. As long-time Clovis residents, we are honored to remain a part of Big Hats Days. You can find us on Pollasky near 5th Street displaying the classics and our whimsical mosaic river rocks. We’re also on Facebook at Mosaics by G&C Designs, or www.facebook.com/mosaicyardart, and on Instagram @mosaicsbygandcdesigns.

Clovis Gears Up for Big Hat Days with a Big Spring Cleaning

The City of Clovis is a lot like its residents—we like to tidy up before our guests arrive. And with one of the biggest events of the year just around the corner, City crews are hard at work making sure Old Town looks its best for Big Hat Days.

Every spring, this historic celebration draws thousands of visitors from across California, and Clovis takes great pride in rolling out the welcome mat. That effort is led by the City’s Public Utilities Department, whose teams work year-round to keep Old Town clean and inviting. In the weeks leading up to the first weekend in April, you’ll see an extra push to spruce things up—trimming trees,

sweeping the streets, picking up trash, making sidewalk and street improvements, and putting the finishing touches on our incredible historic downtown.

Clovis is not just a great place to live—it’s a great place to visit. When guests arrive for Big Hat Days, they’ll be greeted by clean streets, fresh landscaping, and a vibrant atmosphere ready for the weekend’s festivities.

So, as we get ready for the annual event, City staff is busy trimming, planting, painting, cleaning, washing, repairing, and tidying up—because nothing says “Welcome to Clovis” like a sparkling Old Town, ready to impress.

FIVE MORE REASONS to Celebrate Big Hat Days

Every year, locals and visitors alike gather in Old Town Clovis to enjoy the time-honored tradition of Big Hat Days. Now in its 87th year, this beloved event brings together families and friends to celebrate the arrival of spring and the rich history of Clovis.

Beyond the fun and festivities, there are even more reasons why Big Hat Days holds such a special place in the heart of the community. Here are five key reasons why this annual event is worth celebrating:

A Celebration of Clovis Heritage

Every town has a unique identity shaped by its history, and Clovis is no exception. Founded in the late 1890s as a railroad and lumber town, Clovis has always been rooted in hard work, resilience, and strong community ties.

The Clovis Rodeo, established in 1914, became a cornerstone of local tradition, taking place annually on the last weekend of April. In 1938, Big Hat Days was introduced as a way to kick off what became known as “Rodeo Month.”

“Big Hat Days is more than just an event; it’s a living tradition,” says Mark Ford, a longtime Clovis resident. “It brings our history to life and reminds us of what makes

this town so special.”

A Boost for Local Businesses

With more than 200 community events hosted in Clovis each year, the city recognizes the importance of bringing people together—not only to celebrate but also to support local merchants. Big Hat Days attracts thousands of attendees, creating valuable opportunities for small businesses to reach new customers.

“The event energizes our business community,” says Greg Sassano, owner of a Sassano’s Men’s Wear. “The arrival of so many new visitors to Old Town gives us exposure we wouldn’t normally have, and many become repeat customers long after the event is over.”

Economic Impact Beyond Clovis

The crowd drawn by Big Hat Days far exceeds the city’s permanent population, and with that comes an economic ripple effect. Visitors, especially those from out of town, contribute significantly to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and gas stations.

“As Woody from Toy Story might put it, ‘There’s a new sheriff in town, and its name is economic growth!’” says Shawn Miller, Business

Development Manager for the City of Clovis. “Events like Big Hat Days attract visitors from across California, boost local businesses, and keep our economy thriving. Now that’s the kind of gold rush we love to see!”

A Launchpad for Entrepreneurs

The Clovis Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment, and Big Hat Days plays a key role in supporting new ventures. Many small businesses and startups use the event as an opportunity to introduce their products and services to the public.

“It’s an incredible platform for entrepreneurs,” says Chad McCollum, Economic Development, Housing and Communications Director for the City of Clovis. “Getting in front of this many people helps build brand awareness in a way that’s hard to achieve otherwise.”

A Chance to Give Back

Big Hat Days isn’t just about business—it’s also an opportunity for local nonprofits to connect with the community. The Clovis Chamber of Commerce offers affordable booth space for nonprofit organizations, giving them a platform to share their

mission and raise funds.

“We see this as a win-win,” says Frank Ducar, Finance Officer of American Legion Cecil Cox Post 147. “Not only do we raise awareness and support for our cause, but we also get to be part of something that brings the whole community together.”

From its deep historical roots to its lasting economic impact, Big Hat Days is much more than a street fair—it’s a vital force that strengthens Clovis in countless ways. As Clovis Chamber of Commerce CEO Greg Newman puts it, “This event belongs to the entire community, and its impact reaches far beyond just one weekend.”

THE 111th CLOVIS RODEO One

Mark your calendars! From April 23-27, 2025, the Clovis Rodeo returns for its 111th year, bringing five days of thrilling competition, live entertainment, and community spirit to Fresno County. A beloved tradition on the final weekend of April, this event is among the largest rodeos in the nation, organized by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about preserving the rodeo’s rich history and its deep roots in Clovis. Visit www.clovisrodeo.com for the latest updates and schedules.

This year’s lineup promises excitement for all ages! From PRCA Xtreme Bull Riding and three nights of live country music to four full days of professional rodeo action, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy great food, familyfriendly entertainment, and an atmosphere full of energy as top competitors take on the arena in a three-hour showcase of skill and determination.

The Action in the Arena Rodeo fans can look forward to a mix of rough stock and timed events, testing the skills of professional cowboys and cowgirls:

• Rough Stock Events – Bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and bull riding challenge riders to hold on for a full 8 seconds while showcasing their technique and control.

• Timed Events – Steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping, breakaway roping and barrel racing demand precision and speed, as competitors race against the clock for top honors.

The Clovis Rodeo is more

than just a sporting event—it’s a celebration of community, heritage, and tradition. Volunteers who organize this event recognize the importance of honoring Clovis’ past while looking ahead to its future. Year after year, the rodeo

brings together friends, families, and neighbors for an unforgettable experience.

What began as a small gathering more than a century ago has grown into a major professional competition that attracts worldclass athletes and tens of thousands of fans. The event draws nearly 800 competitors, 1,000 elite livestock athletes, and over 50,000 spectators, all contributing to an economic impact of more than $30 million for Clovis and the surrounding area.

Get Your Tickets

Tickets are available online at www.clovisrodeo.com or in person at the Clovis Rodeo ticket office (Monday–Friday, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, with extended hours starting April 1, 2025, from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm). The rodeo grounds, located on Clovis Avenue between Bullard and Barstow in downtown Clovis, are within walking distance of local hotels, making it easy to enjoy the event. Plus, parking at the rodeo grounds is free!

Whether you’re a longtime rodeo fan or experiencing it for the first time, the Clovis Rodeo is an event you won’t want to miss. Visit www.clovisrodeo.com for full event details, ticket information, and a complete schedule of activities. See you at the rodeo!

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