Salinas Valley Fair Guide 2023

SPECIAL DAYS AT THE FAIR

Kids’ Holaday – Thursday, May 18

Sponsored by Holaday Seed

Free admission to all children 12 & under

Senior Day – Friday, May 19

Sponsored by Rio Farms

Free admission to Adults 60 years of age or older

Special Kids Day – Friday, May 19

Sponsored by King City Rotary Club

Free admission for special education tour groups.

Armed Forces Day – Saturday, May 20

Sponsored by A&G Pumping

Free admission to all active duty military personnel and their dependents with military ID. Free admission to military civilian employees and military contractors. ID required for discount

Dia Del Hispano – Sunday, May 21

Sponsored by Bassetti Farms

DAILY FAIR ADMISSION

Adults $12

Seniors (60 & over) $8

Youth (6-17) $8

Children (5 & under) FREE

Parking $20

INFORMATION

(831) 385-3243

& TICKETS

625 Division Street, King City, CA

Gates Open 11 AM-10 PM Daily

Fair Closes 12 AM; 10:30 PM Sunday

SalinasValleyFair.com

@SalinasValleyFair

“Wind Powered Wine.”

Manager’s Welcome

Hello Salinas Valley Fair Friends and Family!

We are so excited to celebrate the 79th Annual Salinas Valley Fair May 18-21.

This year, our theme is “Barnyard May-Ham,” and we have your favorite activities. The Fair will once again be filled with all of your favorite things exhibitions like 4-H and FFA Livestock, cookies, photos and so much more. Swing into our exhibition buildings or Barns and see what our talented exhibitors are up to.

Alongside all of our exhibits, we bring a full week of family-friendly activities and entertainment. Bring the whole family, young and old, for

Kids’ Holaday on Thursday, Seniors Day on Friday and Armed Forces Day on Saturday. Each day in the Stampede Arena, we will feature new and exciting entertainment options along with our Kids Zone and Commercial area. And…before you leave, don’t forget to enjoy any of our traditional fair foods – like corn dogs, cotton candy, funnel cake or a giant cinnamon roll.

Thank you for your continued support of the Salinas Valley Fair. We are truly grateful for all of our exhibitors, sponsors and supporters and look forward to seeing you at this year’s Salinas Valley Fair.

Lauren Hamilton, CEO Salinas Valley Fair

James Hinkle Fair Theme Contest Winner

James is this year’s Fair Theme Contest Winner! He is 16 and a Sophomore at Palma High School.  He has been an active member of King City Rural 4H since he was 9, and now serves as the club president. James got his inspiration for “Barnyard May-Ham” from the fair animals for the “ham” part and chose “May” because of the month Fair is held.  His favorite thing about the Fair is hanging out with his friends and the Old West Cinnamon Rolls!

President’s Welcome

It’s an honor to serve on the Salinas Valley Fair Board of Directors as your 2023 President.

Salinas Valley Fair is celebrating its 79th Fair with a little “Barnyard May-Ham”. The 2023 fair theme fits perfect for what we have in store for May 18-21. The Fair will again offer an exciting entertainment lineup with some of our favorites from Tucker Petting Zoo, Happy Day Pony Rides, trackless train & Junior Livestock Exhibits.

The Longbranch Saloon will be featuring Joe Peters, Gotcha Covered & Lipstick Revolver. Steinbeck Stage is filled great entertainment from Violin on Fire, Pro Wrestling and one of my favorite shows “Outlaw Mariachi” Saturday evening and a new line up for Sunday’s bands!

Butlers Amusements is bringing some Fair time thrillers, carnival rides for all ages! Buy your carnival wristbands in advance to save. Enjoy the “Fair Food Favorites” from corndogs, cinnamon rolls & the giant block of curly fries. Bring your family and friends and enjoy four days of fun at the Fair.

THANK YOU to the Fair’s Board of Directors, the Fair’s great staff and all of our volunteers. On behalf of the Fair and its Board of Directors, thank you for continued support, come celebrate a little “Barnyard May-Ham” May 18-21!

Frank Lopez, President Salinas Valley Fair

FAIR AT A GLANCE

Daily Fair Admission

Adults $12

Seniors (60 & Over) $8

Youth (6-17) $8

Children (5 & Under) FREE Parking $20

Advanced Fair Discounts, purchased before May 17th

General Fair admission – Family 4 pack, Buy 4 Admissions for $32, while supplies last Grand Tasting – Sponsored by Mechanics Bank

Grand Tasting $35, Includes admission to fair when purchased before Wed May 17th Tickets at door are $40, plus fair admission. Enjoy an evening of wine tasting from the 2023 Monterey International Wine Competition.

Save on Carnival All Day Ride Wristbands!

Buy your ‘all-day’ ride carnival wristband for less. Only $30 when you purchase before May 17th at the Salinas Valley Fair Administration Office, Mechanics Bank and GTS Tax Service.

Information & Tickets

(831)385-3243

625 Division Street King City, CA 93930

Gates Open 11AM-10PM Daily Fair Closes 12AM; 10:30PM Sunday www.SalinasValleyFair.com

Special Admission Days

Kids’ Holaday - Thursday May 18th

Sponsored by: Holaday Seed Company

Free Admission to all children 12 & under

Gates open at 10AM for School Tour Groups. Free Admission for teachers and school tour adult chaperones before 11AM. See daily schedule between 10am-1pm for school groups.

Senior Day - Friday May 19th

Sponsored by Rio Farms

Free admission to all adults 60 & over.

Special Kids Day - Friday May 19th

Sponsored by King City Rotary Club

Free Admission for special education tour groups. Gates open at 10AM for early admission for special education groups with reservations. Call (831)385-3243 for more information.

Armed Forces Day - Saturday May 20th

Sponsored by A & G Pumping

Free Admission to all active duty military personnel and their dependents with Military ID. Free admission to military civilian employees and military contractors. ID required for discount.

Dia del Hispano - Sunday, May 21st

Sponsored by Bassetti Farms

Gates open at 11am for a fun family day filled with free entertainment.

Gates Open 11AM-10PM Daily Fair Closes 12AM; 10:30PM Sunday www.SalinasValleyFair.com

PLAN AHEAD WHEN YOU ATTEND THE FAIR...

The fair offers a great opportunity for you and your family to enjoy quality time and entertainment together. A little prior planning will help you have a safe and enjoyable experience all day long!

What should I bring to the fair?

• Sunscreen to protect you and the little ones

• Strollers and wheelchairs are not available so please bring one along if needed

• Sunglasses/hat

• Comfortable footwear

• Smiles

The following items are prohibited

• Weapons of any kind

• Illegal substances

• Alcohol

• Pets (Service Dogs are welcome - A service dog is any guide dog, signal dog, or other dog trained to provide assistance to a person with a disability)

• Bicycle, scooters, skateboards, personal motorized vehicles, etc.

• No outside food or beverages (you may bring in one sealed water bottle, up to 24 oz, per guest and baby formula as needed)

• Ice Chests

Things we’ll have for your convenience:

• Buildings so you can get a break from the sun. In the buildings you’ll find great shopping and interesting exhibits

• Restrooms

• ATM’s

• Picnic Tables

• Show Seating

• FREE Entertainment!

JUNIOR LIVESTOCK AUCTION REWARDS HARD-WORKING YOUTH

Saturday, May 20, 8 AM

Marcel Layous Auction Ring in the Rava Equestrian Barn

The Junior Livestock Auction in the Rava Barn attracts hundreds of buyers and supporters all day Saturday. Almost 800 4-H and FFA members bring their animals through the ring.

Months of effort for young, aspiring ranchers and farmers culminates at the Salinas Valley Fair’s Junior Livestock Auction on Saturday, May 20th. Almost 800 4-H and FFA members have selected, purchased, fed, and groomed livestock to be judged, graded and sold at the Fair.

A few seconds in the ring concludes months of hard work for these young livestock exhibitors, who have raised market hogs, sheep, beef, replacement heifers, rabbits or poultry. Thanks to the buyers, the animals bring a good return to the exhibitors who have spent time in the show ring having their animals examined by the judges. The auction starts out with market hogs, followed by champions, beef, goats, and lambs.

The Junior Livestock Auction, broadcast live by KRKC, brings together the efforts of volunteers and the generosity of many businesses. “Learning to produce food for my table and how to be in business for myself –valuable lessons I learned as a 4-H and FFA member,” said Fair Auction Director, Cody Bassetti, “Now, the volunteers and the auction buyers, we’re all doing our part to ensure these lessons continue for kids in our community.” Bassetti is a volunteer director of the fair’s Junior Livestock Auction and oversees the 75 plus volunteers that help to sell the livestock raised by the 4-H and FFA members.

Staff members from Mechanics Bank are ringside to help operate the video projections which display

lot numbers, seller information and sale price. Breakfast is sponsored by CliftonLarsonAllen, and American Ag Credit sponsors the buyers’ lunch. Mike and Mary Orradre and Rosa Pacheco’s Catering sponsor the Buyers’ Reception at the conclusion of the auction.

In the barn area, volunteers work closely with project leaders and exhibitors to make sure the animals are brought into the ring in a timely manner.

The ringmen watch closely to catch every bid—begging and cajoling when necessary, to get the best price for each animal. The auctioneers, in their measured cadence, keep the auction moving to make sure the seller and buyer each get their due.

“Our volunteers, donors and buyers really make the difference,” said John Orradre, Livestock Committee Chair. “Every year something special, surprising, takes place to remind me we have a good thing going in King City.”

The Salinas Valley Fair Livestock Committee and the Junior Livestock Auction Committee are constantly looking for ways to make purchasing animals easy for the buyer. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to answer questions before and day of sale to explain purchasing options to new or potential buyers. For more information, call 831-3853521 or e-mail livestock@SalinasValleyFair.com.

Come down to the Junior Livestock Auction Saturday— take in the action and if you want to support the exhibitors, buy an animal too.

Salinas Valley Fair Jr.

Fairboard is a great organization that was established in 1969. Jr. Fairboard members put in endless hours volunteering, not only at Fair, but year around events.

The Salinas Valley Junior Fairboard has become a multiple generation organization. One that has helped our future generation of leaders learn how to hold meetings, organize their own fundraisers, and gain community recognition.

“They’re a great asset to the fairgrounds and are hard workers. On an average year, Jr. Fairboard puts in around 1,500 volunteer service hours. Without their help and dedication we wouldn’t be able to have a smooth fair.”

Fair Board Director Christine Phillips

Salinas Valley Fair 2023 Junior Fair Board

Back Row: Steven Handley, John Orradre, Matthew Cauley. Front Row: Frank Lopez, Margaret Noroian, Christine Phillips, Darla Mantel, Travis Domingos, Tim Maxwell.

Not pictured: Mike McClane, Kevin Piearcy, Cody Bassetti, Oscar Avalos.

The Anthony family has been farming the Salinas Valley since the early 1900’s. Scott Anthony was the 3rd generation to farm land in the valley and grew a variety of vegetable crops including romaine, snap peas, broccoli, peppers and much much more. Debbie’s parents (Scotty and Ruby Hayes) settled in Greenfield and went into the service station business in the early 1960s. Scott and Debbie married in 1995 and shortly after they began volunteering at the Salinas Valley Fair. Scott was elected to the Fair Board and served as a Director for 20 years, from 1996 to 2016 and during that same time acted as the Fair Board’s Treasurer.

Both Scott and Debbie have contributed countless hours and resources to the Salinas Valley Fair and for many years managed and oversaw the commercial vegetable competition. They worked diligently to secure local growers to submit boxes of vegetables for the fair and year after year designed the building displays that housed all the competitors vegetables - many times they’d end up spending Mother’s Day at the

fair organizing the vegetable building.

Scott and Debbie also worked with 4-H and FFA members and assisted with the Jr. Vegetable Judging competition each year. They are members of the Heritage Foundation and supported the Jr. Livestock auction in many ways, including buying several animals a year and multiple years Debbie helped with the administration of the auctionrecording the buyers information, directing runners, etc.

Lifelong residents of Salinas Valley, they have three daughters, Alison, Calli and Kourtney, and eight grandchildren. Scott and Debbie have since retired from farming and while they are not directly involved with the Salinas Valley Fair, they still support the fair and the local farmer community and enjoy bringing their grandchildren to the fair each year.

Congratulations and Thank You!

Kids’ Holaday

Senior Day

Sponsored

Special Kids Day

Sponsored

Armed Forces Day

Daily

THURSDAY, MAY 18TH

8:00 pm and 10:00 pm

JOE PETERS

Joe Peters was born in the Country Music Capital of the West, Bakersfield, California. In his youth and early 20s, Joe could be found competing in rodeos, team roping, as well working on the family ranch, playing his guitar and singing. At age 8 he received his first guitar and started playing along to some of his favorite artists, including Waylon Jennings, George strait and Merle Haggard. That same year, Joe competed in and won his first rodeo. As Joe grew in stature to 6’5” in his teenage years, he switched his focus from riding rough stock to team roping. During this time Joe began to further hone his craft of singing, playing the guitar and songwriting, playing for anyone who would listen on the rodeo grounds after competitions. Joe was finding success roping regionally, traveling all across the West, until a catastrophic accident, when his horse rolled over on him while preparing for competition.

With a long recovery ahead, Joe dug deeper into his music. After writing his first song, he recorded it at American Sound Recording Studio, which has now become the Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame. Also, during that time, Joe found a new friend, Justin Pensinger, a fellow roper. Pensinger got Joe back in the saddle and helped him through his recovery and regaining his skills, until eventually they became best friends, as well as team roping partners, and soon they were back out on the road. In 2013, the pair qualified for the American Cowboy Team Roping Association (ACTRA) National Finals. As the two were traveling all around the region, Joe would find every open mic night he could along the way. Joe said in a recent interview “The music bug had really gotten under my skin at that point, and that’s all I wanted to do was play, sing, travel and rope!” Then, out of nowhere, another tragedy struck that brought everything to an abrupt ending when Joe’s best friend and roping partner died in an accident in 2015. Joe sold his horse and walked away from everything he had loved and began working the family business.

In 2017, with the strong urging of his cousin, Jake (who had newly learned the guitar and now plays in Joe’s band), Joe started playing in local bars, until eventually Joe was pulling in 400-500 people to see him. In 2019, a trip to

FRIDAY, MAY 19TH 9:00 pm, 10:00 pm and 11:00 pm

GOTCHA COVERED

Gotcha Covered is a band covering a wide variety of hit music. We play the top hits of every genre from the 70’s to today.

Exploding vocals, combined with powerful harmonies, bring every song to life. We take the extra effort to make the songs sound like you’re listening to the original artists LIVE. Multiple keyboards and synthesizers make our song collection extraordinarily broader than any other band you’ve heard.

SATURDAY, MAY 20TH 9:00 pm and 10:00 pm

LIPSTICK REVOLVER

Lipstick Revolver is a tribute band, but not of just one artist. We pay tribute to all the artists we know and love. We start off in the 80’s with all the great pop music that we saw on MTV. Through the 90’s, the music really started to talk to us when the genres began to split and change into multitudes of different sounds. On into the new century we saw the rebellion of music when lyrics and sounds were pushing the limits. We pay tribute to them all. Pop, rock, classic, new age, and country. Every song you wish would come on the jukebox, every song that you wish was next on your playlist...

Nashville sealed the deal for Joe. “The magic of the Music City really got me good”, he said. While sitting on the laundromat floor at the Holiday Inn, he got out his pen and paper and the words just started pouring out, and they haven’t stopped since. Joe released his first EP of original songs in 2020. In 2021, he began working with some of Nashville’s best songwriters and recording in Nashville and will be releasing new music soon! The signature JP brand you see Joe wearing is the brand of his late roping partner, Justin Pensinger, that Joe wears to honor Justin and keep his memory alive. Joe is also roping again, but now it’s just for fun!

SATURDAY MAY 20TH

6:30 pm and 9:00 pm

THE OUTLAW MARIACHI

Immersed and influenced by their Abuelitos watching spaghetti western films all day every day, the unfinished story of two young Chicano Pistoleros from Arizona’s scorching Sonoran Desert comes to life…

Escaping from the ashes created by the burning desert sun and the machine controlled by the mad “mas cowboy”, the two set out on an adventure looking to put together a band of musical bandidos to conquer the World of rock n’ roll.

They galloped west on their mechanical caballos to find the most firme mariachi rockers in L.A. in order to create the ultimate rock mariachi experience. One by one they found and recruited musical prodigies from all over the nation that would help them fulfill their destiny to save society by bringing everyone together with humor and rockin’ tunes, allowing musical ecstasy to penetrate their soul. Together, they became...

The Outlaw Mariachi!

SATURDAY, MAY 20TH

1:00 pm and 3:30 pm

SAMZ SCHOOL OF MUSIC YOUTH BAND PROGRAM

Samz School of Rock Youth Band is a group of young talented students from Samz School of Music, a local community based non-profit music school out of Salinas, California. Students in our band program range in ages 10 to 18. You will be impressed with their musical style which feature diverse and modern rock hits as well as classic rock favorites by Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Fleetwood Mac, ZZ Top, Pat Benatar, No Doubt, 21 Pilots, and many more. Our youth bands have entertained audiences at many community events, music festivals and fundraisers throughout Monterey County. A few highlights are “Rocking the Midway” at the Salinas Sports Complex as the opening band for the Aerosmith Concert in 2016 as part of the Salinas Rodeo as well as the 2017 Kid Rock Concert. Other performances include: Pacific Grove Good Ole Days Festival, Artichoke Food & Wine Festival, Monterey County Fair, Monterey Bay Strawberry Festival, First Night Monterey inside the Golden State Theater, Monterey Rock & Rod Festival, Carmel Plaza Summer Events, 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza, Carmel Mission Fiesta, Salinas Food &

THURSDAY MAY 18TH

1:30 pm and 6:00 pm

SATURDAY, MAY 20TH

5:00 pm and 8:00 pm

Direct from Las Vegas Tyzen The Comedy Hypnotist™!

Witness the electrifying art of Magic combine with side splitting Stage Hypnosis in this audience interactive show. Forget about bunny rabbits and top hats. The only thing up Tyzen’s sleeves are his zany antics and smooth delivery. Watch with your eyes OR volunteer to be hypnotized! Either way, get ready to bust a gut laughing because you’re in for one wild ride!

Wine Festival, Santa Clara St. John Vianney Festival and more. For our students, real performances breed real skill and real stage performance opportunities. Be sure to stop by and listen to their music at the upcoming Salinas Valley Fair!

Visit our school at: 211 Monterey Street, Salinas, CA or send us an email through our web page: Samzschoolofmusic.com. We also have a Facebook and Instagram page. Contact phone is: (831) 235-9588 or 235-9589.

PATRICK CONTRERAS

Born and raised in Fresno, California Patrick Contreras has branded his style of playing with influences from Jimi Hendrix & Santana to become one of violin’s rising stars with a completely unique sound.

Patrick thrills audiences wherever he goes with his original music and explosive interpretations. Patrick Contreras “Violin On Fire” is an Electric Violinist performing a blend of Rock, Latin & Pop. Opening for a

wide variety of acts from BB King to REO Speedwagon, Patrick is establishing himself as a must see act with exciting originals that get you moving!

Shows will be scheduled daily around the grounds, look for Patrick and his Violin during the 2023 Salinas Valley Fair.

SHOWTIMES DAILY

SALINAS VALLEY FAIR HERITAGE FOUNDATION

Hello Heritage Foundation Members and Community Supporters,

We are looking forward to a great Salinas Valley Fair and are excited to see you all back!

Through the last year we have continued our hard work on the Expo Building. Our efforts towards the Expo Building have created an improved space for our community’s youth sports, booth spaces for on-ground events, as well as provided an upgraded event venue. The improvements were made possible through private and public funding that include: bathroom renovations, storage updates, basketball hoops, and future kitchen plans. These much-needed upgrades allow the Fairgrounds to continue to provide our community a space where youth sports, on-ground events, and private parties can take place – be sure to check them while shopping during Fair!

The Heritage Foundation is excited to bring back the King City Stampede as an annual fundraiser for the organization. This event offers our community a two-day, action-packed pro rodeo featuring all the traditional rodeo events, a Wine & Beer Corral, boutique shopping, and select food choices. The goal of the King City Stampede is to continue

our mission of supporting 4H and FFA programs, create ag education opportunities, promote public awareness, and support the ongoing projects of the Salinas Valley Fair in maintaining and improving our current facilities, while serving the needs of our community – such as, the Expo Building renovations. This fundraiser is held annually the last weekend of February in the Foundation’s very first project, the Rava Barn!

We are proud to announce that this year’s Salinas Valley Fair Heritage Foundation Scholarship Recipient is Anahi Lopez, a senior from Salinas High School. She is a member of Salinas FFA and is raising a pig named, “Chilindrina,” for this year’s Junior Livestock Auction. She is very excited to be our recipient and stated, “I get to follow my passion for raising livestock and also pursue a higher education in college.” Anahi plans to attend the University of Idaho this fall. Our Reserve Scholarship Winner is Alexys Catalan, a senior from Greenfield High School. She is a member of Greenfield FFA and sits as their chapter’s Secretary. She is, “…excited for this new experience and [is] looking forward to all

the new people [she] is going to meet.” Her future includes enrolling in the Vet Technician Program at Central Coast College. See both recipients in action on Saturday, May 20th during the Junior Livestock Auction!

All Heritage Members can find the Heritage Room located in the Pavilion, just outside of the Rava Barn. This change started last year and has brought our members more space for conversing and relaxing, while maintaining proximity to the barns.

We are grateful for your continued support of the Salinas Valley Fair Heritage Foundation. We love contributing to the Salinas Valley Fair, maintaining the grounds and facilities, and supporting our community. Our work cannot be done without the support of our members, donors, and sponsors – we appreciate your contribution to our mission.

We are excited for this year’s “Barnyard May-ham” and look forward to seeing you all May 18th through May 21st at the Salinas Valley Fair!

- The Salinas Valley Fair Heritage Foundation Board

Back Row: Rick Harris, Maureen Harris, Amanda Gianolini, Doug Lazzaroni, Jessica Handley. Front Row: Kim Tankersley, Ashleigh Young, Mikel Ann Miller, Cheryl Harrison. Not pictured: Scott Taylor, Cinda Muzylowski, Carla Anecito, Marsha Tankersley.

HERITAGE SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

ANAHI LOPEZ

Anahi Lopez, a senior from Salinas High School, is our 2023 Salinas Valley Fair Heritage Foundation Animal Scholarship winner. She is a member of Salinas FFA and is raising a pig named “Chilindrina” for this year’s SVF Heritage Animal.

Anahi is very excited to be this year’s scholarship recipient. “I get to follow my passion for raising livestock and also pursue a higher education in college,” she stated. Anahi plans on studying Agriculture Communications at the University of Idaho this fall. The $2500 scholarship will help her achieve this goal.

FFA has helped to shape Anahi’s life in a very positive way. “During my freshman year I decided to join FFA. But I was very shy, scared, and didn’t know how to use my voice. My FFA advisor encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone to compete in my first public speaking competition, the FFA Creed. Since then, I found my voice and passion, and I have competed in every public speaking competition. I have also held several officer positions, including being this year’s president of our Salinas FFA Chapter.”

Anahi has become a well-rounded person and continues to form long lasting relationships and friendships throughout the state of California due to her involvement in FFA. This involvement also gave her the confidence to apply for the SVFHF Animal Scholarship and win!

Anahi is really looking forward to this year’s fair. She said, “I will be celebrating my last fair with the people and organizations I love.” She is also very appreciative of the work the SVFHF has done for the Salinas Valley Fair. “I know that every exhibitor, including myself, have benefited from the work the SVFHF has done to fund the amazing facilities that we get to utilize and enjoy during the fair.”

Anahi has represented the SVFHF very well and we are very excited for her and her future endeavors!

2023 Heritage Scholarship Winner Anahi Lopez

2023 MISS SALINAS VALLEY FAIR CROWNED KYLA LAMBERT

Kyla Lambert is a senior at King City High School who lives with her parents; Cole and Kristy. She has two younger brothers Kody and Korbin. Kyla has four pets that she considers her pride and joy, her dog Chevy and her three horses, Scarlett, Lily and Goose. Kyla was born in Salinas California but shortly thereafter moved to King City where she began Kindergarten. Since moving to King City, she has made many close connections with the community, and met her best friends.

In school Kyla flourished as an honor student from elementary to middle and through high school. Outside of the classroom Kyla is dedicated to multiple extracurricular activities including barrel racing, raising livestock for county fairs, and being highly involved in the FFA. Prior to being in FFA, Kyla was in the King City Rural 4H club where she raised 8 pigs and 1 steer, along with serving as the Club President in 2019. Her highest achievement in 4H was raising the 4H Reserve Champion Market Hog In 2015.

Since the beginning of high school in 2019, Kyla has devoted her time to being an active member of the FFA. She served as the Chapter Secretary her sophomore year, Chapter President junior year and now she is serving as the Student Advisor, a position rarely offered to FFA Officers. FFA has opened many doors that have provided opportunities for character development and personal growth through competitions in Public Speaking, Opening and Closing, Job Interview and marketing cooperatives team. She has attended many

leadership conferences such as the Chapter Officer Leadership Conference, Made for Excellence, the California State Leadership Conference, and the National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. Her regional winning in Proficiency in Equine Production allowed her to compete at the State level for the State Star Farmer award at the 2022 California State FFA Leadership Conference.

This year, Kyla had the honor of winning the Jerry L. Biggs State FFA Scholarship at the 2023 California FFA State Leadership Conference. Her Ag Advisors have highly influenced her success in FFA and have assisted in improving her public speaking skills. She has learned to communicate and collaborate with others and is excited to apply the skills she has acquired from FFA to her title of Miss Salinas Valley Fair 2023.

Since Kyla began raising livestock for the Salinas Valley Fair, it has been one of her goals to have this title and represent her hometown. The Salinas Valley Fair will forever be Kyla’s favorite fair, and she is so proud to have this year’s title of 2023 Miss Salinas Valley Fair.

Kyla fis honored to represent her fair and community wherever she goes, and she is looking forward to giving back to everyone that has supported her throughout her many years of showing at the Salinas Valley Fair. After high school Kyla will be attending Cal Poly - San Luis Obispo where she will major in Agriculture Science to become an agriculture educator.

SALINAS VALLEY FAIR MAP

SALINAS VALLEY FAIR CARNIVAL HOURS OF OPERATION

Thursday: Open 3 PM

Friday, Saturday, & Sunday: Open at Noon

Carnival highlights from Butler Amusements

this year: Orbitor

NEW THIS YEAR: The Orbitor

Tilt A Whirl

Orbiter is an exciting ride for teens and adults and features 4 twirling arms holding three spinning seats each. This Italian made ride twirls rides around until their seats are perpendicular the ground below.

Zillerator Roller Coaster

The Orbiter is an exciting ride for teens and adults and features 4 twirling arms holding three spinning seats each. This Italian made ride twirls rides around until their seats are perpendicular with the ground below.

Round and round they go and where they stop, nobody knows! A classic favorite that has thrilled and excited patrons for generations, the Tilt A Whirl is a swirling experience for teens as well as adults. Separate cars rotate individually as the entire ride revolves up, down and around.

Ride Height Requirements

Century Wheel

Century Wheel

Towering over the midway is the majestic Century Wheel. The Century Wheel offers patrons a sweeping view from a height of nearly 70 feet! Passengers are seated in separate gondolas and then whisked smoothly up, around, and down again; a motion reminiscent of the Ferris Wheel.

Carousel

down and around aboard a car for four, passengers enjoy the Zillerator Roller Coaster! Standing at 48 1/2 feet tall it has 6 cars each capable of holding up to 4 people. A Ride for teens adults, the Zillerator Coaster sends riders on a thrilling trip over the tracks-curving, rising descending!

For decades, audiences have been awed by the beautifully crafted majesty of the carousel. This piece of Americana is 30 feet in diameter and features multiple horses and a chariot. Parents and children create memories while they enjoy the sights and sounds of the beautiful ride together.

Towering over the midway is the majestic Century Wheel. The Century Wheel offers patrons a sweeping view from a height of nearly 70 feet! Passengers are seated in separate gondolas and whisked smoothly up, around, and down again; a motion reminiscent of the Ferris Wheel.

16 Ferris Wheel

Alien Invasion

Alien Invasion

Zillerator Roller Coaster

Whirl

Up, down and around aboard a car for four, passengers enjoy the Zillerator Roller Coaster! Standing at 48 1/2 feet tall it has 6 cars each capable of holding up to 4 people. A Ride for teens and adults, the Zillerator Coaster sends riders on a thrilling trip over the tracks-curving, rising and descending!

The lights and excitement of the midway literally become a blue as the Alien Invasion sweeps you off your feed. Spinning at 24 RPM, the Alien Invasion uses centrifugal force to float passengers off the floor, giving them the felling of weightlessness.

staple of the American midway, this 16 seat Ferris Wheel has eight front facing cars capable holding two riders each. It offers a gentle ride around the 360-degree vertical circle. A thrilling view for riders as they are lifted high above the ground.

The lights and excitement of the midway literally become a blue as the Alien Invasion sweeps you off your feed. Spinning at 24 RPM, the Alien Invasion uses centrifugal force to float passengers off the floor, giving them the felling of weightlessness.

Rockin Tug

Rockin Tug

Rockin Tug

Round and round they go and where they stop, nobody knows! A classic favorite that has thrilled and excited patrons for generations, the Tilt A Whirl is a swirling experience for teens as as adults. Separate cars rotate individually as the entire ride revolves up, down and around.

Carousel

Alien Invasion

The lights and excitement of the midway literally become a blue as the Alien Invasion sweeps you off your feed. Spinning at 24 RPM, the Alien Invasion uses centrifugal force to float passengers off the floor, giving them the felling of weightlessness.

Eagle 16 Ferris wheel

A staple of the American midway, this 16 seat Ferris Wheel has eight front facing cars capable of holding two riders each. It offers a gentle ride around the 360-degree vertical circle. A thrilling view for riders as they are lifted high above the ground.

Those who normally go with the flow are encouraged to rock the boat a little this year at the Fair. This little tugboat spins, dips and peaks like riding an ocean swell. The Rockin’ Tug seats approximately 20 individuals so parents can take to the high seas with their children.

Those who normally go with the flow are encouraged to rock the boat a little this year at the Fair. This little tugboat spins, dips and peaks like riding an ocean swell. The Rockin’ Tug seats approximately 20 individuals so parents can take to the high seas with their children.

Those who normally go with the flow are encouraged to rock the boat a little this year at the Fair. This little tugboat spins, dips and peaks like riding an ocean swell. The Rockin’ Tug seats approximately 20 individuals so parents can take to the high seas with their children.

decades, audiences have been awed by the beautifully crafted majesty of the carousel. This of Americana is 30 feet in diameter and features multiple children create memories while they enjoy the sights and so together.

SALINAS VALLEY FAIR

FOOD & DRINK OFFERINGS

New Vendors!

Papa Gino’s Pizza

RTruck, Inc.

Our Returning Fair Favorites!

Stroud Burgers

Hamburgers, Giant Curly Fries, Hot Dogs, Sausage Sandwich, Pizza Bread

Brian’s Concessions

Hot Dogs, Deep Fried

Oreos, Candy Apples, Popcorn, Cotton Candy, Giant Pickles

Capitol Concessions

Corn Dogs and Cheese-on-a-Stick

Old West Cinnamon Rolls Cinnamon Rolls, Coffee, Cocoa

Espicy Kettle Corn, Roasted Almonds, Cashews, & Pecans

Suck It Up Concessions

Soft Serve Ice Cream

Cones, Shakes, Sundaes, Banana Split, Lemonade, Dole Whips

Pony Espresso Mochas, Lattes and Specialty drinks

Funnel Cakes West

An assortment of Funnel Cakes

Whiting’s Slush Puppies and Dippin’ Dots

JLQ Concessions Mexican Food, Shrimp Cocktails, Ceviche Tostadas, Tacos, Tortas

West Coast Concessions Churros & Drinks

Wild Bill’s Olde Fashioned Soda 7 flavors to try!

Sharp Concepts Pizza by The Slice or Whole, Polish Sausage Sandwich

RTruck Inc Pastas, Salads, & Sadwiches

Papa Gino’s Pizza Whole Pizza or By the Slice, Wings

Longbranch Saloon Live music Thursday – Saturday beer and drinks served (21 & over after 3 PM)

King City Lions Club Coors, Coors Light, Tecate

King City VFW Budweiser, BudLight, Modelo, 805

SVF Heritage Foundation

Margaritas, Strawberry Margaritas, Modelo, Modelo Cheladas, High Noons. Thank

Salinas Valley Fair Grand Tasting

Thursday, May 18, 6:00–8:30 PM Orradre Building

The Fair starts off in grand style with wine and fabulous food on Thursday, May 18th from 6:00-8:30 PM in the Orradre Building. The Grand Tasting, sponsored by Mechanics Bank is an opening night tradition at the Salinas Valley Fair and over 400 people are expected to attend.

The event’s featured wines are the best of the best from the annual Monterey International Wine Competition held in March. Look for the wine earning the competition’s Highest Honor“Wine of the Year” and “Best of Monterey County” the 2019 Furthermore Pinot Noir, Rosella’s Vineyard.

Our 2023 “Winery of the Year” Wakefield/Taylors. Rich Cook, Director & Chief Judge of MIWC stated, “This award recognizes the fine quality of their entire portfolio of wines entered in the competition.”

Sponsored By

Try other “best of” winners representing popular varietals such as Zinfandel, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Curious wine enthusiasts can find of this year’s winners and our Tasting Notes for all of the Platinum Award Winning Wines on the competition’s website MontereyWineCompetition.com.

Not only will delicious wines be served, but attendees are treated to mouth-watering appetizers and lots of good company. Guests are also able to check out the Commercial Produce Exhibits as well as the entries from our 4-H and FFA exhibitors.

Tickets are $35 and include admission to the Fair when purchased before May 18th. Advance tickets are available in the Fair office. Tickets may also be purchased at the door, day of event, for $40 (fair admission must be purchased separately on the day of the event).

FRIDAY NIGHT ON THE STEINBECK!

VENDETTA PRO WRESTLING

They’re back! Vendetta Pro Wrestling returns to the Salinas Valley Fair with pulsepounding, high-flying, jaw-jacking, backbreaking pro wrestling and Lucha Libre action. The wildly popular event will be in Steinbeck Square, 8 p.m. Friday night. And it’s free with admission to the fair.

Vendetta Pro Wrestling provides exciting, high energy entertainment from the opening bell to the main event will leave fans hungry for more Vendetta Pro action.

“Vendetta Pro Wrestling produces a actionpacked show and excited to get them back on the stage, Friday at of fair,” said SVF CEO. “The special effects, lighting and music really add to the drama that fans of wrestling have come to expect from these live spectacles. You won’t want to miss this event!”

Based in Santa Maria, California, Vendetta Pro Wrestling has been presenting hardhitting, high-flying and exciting Professional Wrestling action to fans across California and Nevada since 2009, and became California’s only member of the National Wrestling Alliance in 2014. Not only has Vendetta Pro brought former (and current!) WWE & TNA Superstars such as Matt Hardy, Chris Masters and Jeff Jarrett to the Salinas Valley Fair, but have also brought Pro Wrestlers who would then go on to become Superstars such as current WWE NXT Women’s Champion Bayley, and Lucha Underground TV stars Mr. Cisco, Famous B. and Brian Cage!

Vendetta Pro always brings their “A” Game to the Salinas Valley Fair and we expect the best on Friday, May 19th on the Steinbeck. For more information on Vendetta Pro, go to their official website at www.vendettaprowrestling.com

BUCK TROUT

Buck Trout brings smiles and laughter wherever he goes! Keep an eye out for him as he drives his little truck with the canoe on top and be sure to catch a great photo opportunity!

While most campers head to the mountains, Buck Trout makes a beeline toward festivals and fairs. A bucktoothed, nature loving puppet, Buck Trout prefers the laughter of children to the serenity of a mountain retreat.

Since 1995, Buck Trout has completed over 50 cross-country trips making appearances at some of the largest events in the United States. He is a family favorite not only at fairs and festivals but also at corporate events, sports shows and parades.

Buck Trout is a nationally known, fun-loving puppet who consistently promotes good values and encourages families to embrace a healthy lifestyle.

DINO SIGHTINGS

Nathaniel Shuflin is a musician, actor and puppeteer. His experience dates all the way back to the 90’s as a musician and radio host. Nathaniel began acting professionally in 2012 and puppeteering in 2017 performing at fairs in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Florida. In 2020 he became co-owner of Dinosightings and has worked to expand the show’s interactive and educational components, while broadening the availability to new venues and audiences.

Jeannine Torres is an actor, dancer, and animal ambassador. Her background in Theater and Dance spans more than 30 years. She holds a BfA in Theater Arts and has been a working actor, dancer, and choreographer to date in Europe and the United States. Her work as a dinosaur ambassador, head trainer, tour manager and co-owner of Dinosightings began in 2017 and has taken her around California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Florida. As a dinosaur handler and head trainer Jeannine’s primary concern is the safety of the audience. To date no children have been eaten accidentally. Indy, our hybridized juvenile T-Rex, was hatched in 2019 and immediately showed promise in his training. He was a brood favorite who quickly became a crowd favorite as he performed all over the country. Now, at only 4 years old, he is a consummate professional always ready to entertain, put his best foot forward and meet the crowd at their level. Which at 8 ft tall and 16 ft long is no small feat. Even though he is a giant, he’s just like any other 4-year-old at the fair. He can’t get enough of the food, fun, games, and of course the people, especially the babies. You may also find him dancing to the music or trying to sneak some cotton candy or funnel cake.

CARTOON POODLES

Get ready to be amazed by the Cartoon Poodles - a playful and colorful group of over a dozen poodles that will have you barking with joy! These talented pups fly through the air, dance in glamorous nightgowns, and even conga line! They’re high-energy routine is guaranteed to get you up and dancing along with them. Plus, the best part? They’re all rescued pups! Don’t miss their show-stopping performance that will leave you smiling from ear to ear.

TH E E A S IE R WAY TO FL Y

4 X 4 Hot Rod Truck Pulling

Sponsored By

The load roar of a 4 x 4 Hot Rod Trucking Pull fills the stampede arena with entertainment beginning at 7:00 PM on Friday, May 19th at the Salinas Valley Fair. The biggest, “baddest” trucks will compete for prize money and

bragging rights for the claim as “Toughest Truck of the Salinas Valley”. Each vehicle will be attached to a sled which is designed so the weight is lighter at the beginning of the pull and as the vehicle makes its way down the track the

weight quickly increases proving the power of the truck. Contestants in each class with the longest pull wins!

Your admission to the Salinas Valley Fair on Friday May, 19th includes the truck pull action!

Happy Day Pony Rides

Sponsored By

Since 1961, Happy Day Pony Rides has been creating memories and traditions for families. Safety & educational information are their top priorities. It’s not just a great ride, but a great experience.

Happy Day Pony Rides are a Fair tradition and hope they become one

Want

Sponsored by

ZOE MAGIC - She is an energy bomb who loves the arts and loves magic ever since she remembers. She got her touch of magic from her award winning magician/professor grandfather Humberto, which did Magic and Illusions in Nicaragua where her family is from.

minute and watch the incredible show, she floats and dan ces with a table, appears a snake, produces traveling silver coins, she loves to make families laugh, and bring out the happiness and fun in humanity and so much more.

ZOE Zany WILD ABOUT MONKEYS AND FRIENDS

one of a kind act that you won’t want to miss!

MAGIC

When a movie producer needs a performing baboon, chances are they will call Kevin Keith the host of “Wild About Monkeys & Friends”. Training Baboons is his specialty. He believes baboons to be, by far, the most socially intelligent primate. Wild About Monkeys & Friends will amaze & delight the audience with fun, education and great entertainment for the whole family. “Wild About Monkeys” is the only traveling animal exhibition that features a trained baboon.

The Show also includes a Capuchin Monkey, Alligator and a 12-foot Burmese Python.

She is an energy bomb who loves the arts and loves magic ever since she remembers. She got her touch of magic from her award winning magician/ professor grandfather Humberto, which did Magic and Illusions in Nicaragua where her family is from.

Take a minute and watch the incredible show, she floats and dances with a table, appears a snake, produces traveling silver coins, she loves to make families laugh, and bring out the happiness and fun in humanity and so much more. She’s a one of a kind act that you won’t want to miss!

SUNDAY, MAY 21ST

DIA DEL HISPANO A DAY FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY

Sponsored by

Dia del Hispano Sunday, May 15th, is a fun, family event featuring popular Hispanic entertainment at the Salinas Valley Fair. The best part of the entertainment it’s all FREE with your fair admission. Festivities begin with the Jaripeo Bull Riding in the Stampede Arena beginning at 1:30pm. Guests will be entertained with two hours of bull riding and music. The Jaripeo style is different from the American style in that the riders are required to stay on the bull for as long as possible, preferably until the bull stops.

Following the Jaripeo performances, on the Steinbeck Stage will be “Carnaval Bandero” produced by Empresa M & S Entertainment. Featuring bands Los Reyes de la Banda, Banda TierraMenguarense and Banda Ttoyana wrapping up the evening performances.

Families and friends may also enjoy all the Fair’s daily entertainment, food and carnival which will be open until 10:00pm! Come early and stay all day! Gates open at 11;:00 am , see you at Dia del Hispano, Sunday, May 15th at the Salinas Valley Fair.

Los Reyes de la Banda