2023 Santa Cruz County Fair Guide

Fair at a Glanc

Santa Cruz County Fair

September 13–17, 2023

2601 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville, California 95076

Senior’s Day – $12 admission for Seniors age 62+ at gate –9/13

Veteran’s Day – FREE Admission for Veterans – 9/13

Active Military Duty – FREE Admission with ID

Kid’s Day – FREE Admission for Kids 12 and Under – 9/13

Education Day – Must pre-order tickets for education day – 9/14

DAILY FAIR HOURS: Noon to 11:00 P.M.

11:30 AM – Opening Ceremony – Main Gate/Rodgers House

11:55 AM – Quilts of Valor Presentation – Main Gate/Rodgers House

NOON – Fair Opens

NOON-3:00 PM – Farm Bureau BBQ (Ticketed Event) – Paddy Smith Park

DAILY ADMISSION:

Age 13 to 61 – $20

Children 6 to 12 – $10 (Free on Kid’s Day 9/14 only)

Children 5 and under – FREE

Seniors 62 and better – $13 ($12 at the gate on 9/13 only)

Active Duty Military – FREE everyday with ID

All Veterans – FREE on 9/13/ only

PARKING: $10 (Main Lot) – $30 (Valet)

Alternate Routes to the Fair

Normally Airport Boulevard and Highway 152 handle the cars and farm trucks pretty well. But when your favorite travel app warns of heavy traffic on the most popular routes to the Fairgrounds you’ll be glad you grabbed the attached map.

Use it to find a road less traveled. It isn’t necessarily shorter in distance but may be quicker in time. At the very least following roads with names like Casserly and Carlton will certainly take you through some beautiful country.

Even though you might have to share the road with a large number of your friends and neighbors, the 2023 Santa Cruz County Fair is worth the trip. And this year you can navigate the back roads like a local with or without that very smart phone.

Freedom Boulevard to Corralitos Road. Right on Varni to Pioneer Road to Green Valley Road, left on Casserly and right on Highway 152.Highway 101 to Highway 129 west, right on Blackburn, right on East Lake Ave. (Hwy 152). Highway 101 to Highway 152 west.

Patrice Edwards EDITOR

Jondi Gumz ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Camisa Composti LAYOUT & DESIGN

Ward J. Austin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Fair Staff OFFICE MANAGER

Cathe Race

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine

MARKETING COORDINATOR

Katie Marzullo

Santa Cruz County Fair Board of Directors:

Michael Pruger President Director

Stephanie Fontana Director

Manager’s Message 2023:

Getting Back to Business

Welcome to another great year at the Santa Cruz County Fair! Come join us September 13-17th for delicious food, fun attractions and exhibits, and some great entertainment!

This last year has been a tough time for everybody – the record rains that finally ended our drought also brought heartache in the form of dangerous flood waters and damage to the community… I don’t think anyone was left untouched. But the tireless staff and volunteers of the fairgrounds stepped up to administrate and coordinate an evacuation center and refuge for the flood victims. They worked with the American Red Cross and officials from two counties to support the community until everyone could finally return to their homes and get on with rebuilding their lives. I have nothing but respect and admiration for the dedication shown by the team here at the Fair– it’s part of why I am humbled and honored to have been given the opportunity to become a part of this team myself.

And now that the waters have receded and the dust has settled… we’re long overdue for a party, in my opinion! So, please come join with us this September 13th – 17th and see for yourself what we mean by HOME GROWN AND LOCALLY SHOWN! Peruse our exhibit halls and see the displays of talent and skill that live right here in your own community! Sample all the wares of tasty food and locally made goods! Ride the rides and play games on our Midway! Check out the pig races and the camel rides and come see all the animals and livestock on display! Come listen to great music and watch our lineup of talented entertainers! It’s fun for every age, so come and be a part of it!

Here at the Fair we are getting back to business, and we are in the business of FUN! We hope to see you here!

All the Best,

– Zeke Fraser Fair Manager and CEO

Camou age, Professional, and Biker Apparel, Flags, Collectibles, Peacoats, Gloves, Camo Netting, Knives, Swords, Binoculars, Tarps, Boots, Camp Gear, Paintball, Airsoft, and MUCH More!

Daily Entertainment & Attractions ...

Scheduled Entertainment, Horse Shows & Livestock:

President’s Message:

I, along with the rest of the Board of Directors of the 14th District Agricultural Association Fair Board, welcome you all to the 2023 version of the largest community event this county puts togetherevery year.

Without OUR community, this Fair would not be the success it is year after year. We have had an interesting year but appear to have turned the corner and are looking forward to many wonderful years to come. We have put together a truly great five days of fun and entertainment. The children of our community will again be treated to educational opportunities that only come around once a year. Not to mention the good eats that the Fair allows us to indulge.

All this, of course, would not be possible without the help of our maintenance staff and the many volunteers who put in hundreds of hours throughout the year. Their dedication to this Fair and the community has no bounds. I would like to also introduce you to our new Fair Manager, Zeke Fraser. His approach to the Fair and the fairgrounds will invigorate our community. If you have yet to meet him, be sure to introduce yourself.

Finally, Home Grown and Locally Shown, could not have come at a better time. This theme shows our resilience and our diversity. We have come through a pandemic, fires and floods and our spirit has not been broken.

Please enjoy the next five days, September 13th-17th, of education, exhibits, competitions and of course the food and drinks. It is our plea sure to have you!

– Mike Pruger 2023 Fair Board President

Daily Entertainment & Attractions

Scheduled Entertainment, Horse Shows & Livestock:

TGIF at the Fair Friday

Daily Entertainment & Attractions

Last Day of Fair

Daily Entertainment & Attractions

Heritage Hog Scholarship Monster Trucks & Motocross

Bianka Pena Receives 2023 Heritage Hog Scholarship

Raising livestock has been a journey of discovery for Bianka Pena, this year’s Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation recipient of the Heritage Hog Scholarship. The Watsonville High FFA Member knew she always wanted to be involved in Agriculture but it was not until joining FFA that she realized the impact Agriculture would have on her life.

“As I am exploring a career as a livestock breeder and manager, I want to take advantage of as many opportunities as I can to achieve and gain the experience necessary to achieve my goals, said Bianka. I would like to raise this year’s Heritage Hog as I would contribute towards the Fairgrounds importance to our community, and help it to continue to grow and develop.”

Bianka will raise this year’s Heritage Hog donated by Country Hills Feed and bring it to the Santa Cruz County Fair to be auctioned Saturday September 16th at the Junior Livestock Auction. You can see Bianka’s efforts in the Livestock Area at the fair.

As a result of her efforts, Bianka will be awarded a $3,000 Scholarship to use towards her education expenses. The Heritage Hog Scholarship is a great way to encourage current youth involvement in the Fair Livestock activities and foster future educational endeavors for the hard working exhibitors.

Monster Trucks and Motocross

Two nights of rip-roaring excitement awaits you at the Monster Trucks and Motocross shows.

This motorsport event thrills and delights… as huge trucks and daredevil motorcycle riders whirl and twirl through the air. The only thing louder than the roar of the engines are the cheers from the crowd!

The Heritage Hog is a fundraising program of the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation that helps local youth further their agricultural education and at the same time raises funds for improvements to the Fairgrounds. Proceeds support future scholarships and are used for improving facilities on the Fairgrounds that in many ways benefit the youth of our community.

Donations to the Heritage Hog Scholarship Program can be made at the Fairgrounds Foundation website fairgrounds-foundation. org or by contacting the Heritage Hog Committee at (831) 786-9698.

Contact: Kaleena Mornard or Ron Haedicke for more information (831) 786-9698. ❂

This year, featured Monster Trucks include Playing for Keeps, Enforcer, Wicked Strong and Hillbilly. There’s also The Extinguisher Monster Ride Truck and Quad Wars featuring The Immortal ATV Riders.

Monster Trucks & Motocross roars into action at 7:30pm at the Racetrack, Wednesday and Thursday.

Go to https://www.santacruzcountyfair.com for ticket information. ❂

Racing Pigs, Pacific Animals Escaramuza Charra

The All-Alaskan Racing Pigs, Livestock Lawn

Their legs may be short and their bellies round, but they have the hearts of racehorses! The famous All-Alaskan Racing Pigs are back to hog the spotlight at the Santa Cruz County Fair.

These prestigious porkers are the fastest and funniest athletes you’ll see anywhere. They’ve brought home the bacon from shows all over the western U.S. and Alaska. “They love what they do and they like people,” says manager Bart Noll. “We’re humbled by the overflow crowds and hope you’re having as much fun as we are.”

The pigs are powered by cookies. That’s the treat they’re racing to win. A race lasts just six seconds… but luckily, there are four races in each show. In between shows, the pigs chillax in an air-conditioned trailer filled with fresh pine or cedar bedding. And yes, they eat well.

After the race, stick around for an opportunity to meet one of the little piggies. They love to pose for pictures… they’re real hams! ❂

Pacific Animal Productions, Ball Park

You’ll be quick to smile when you visit the slowmoving star of Pacific Animal Productions.

Paco the Sloth is back for a second year! Paco is a big hit… but he’s taking his newfound celebrity in stride (a very slow stride).

You’ll find Paco chillin’ with friends from birds to reptiles and more.

For more than three decades, Pacific Animal Productions has been dedicated to conserving wildlife and endangered species while educating people about the wonders of wildlife.

This exhibit gives fairgoers a safe environment to see, touch and learn about the many animals that share our planet.

Pacific Animal Productions is a licensed facility that provides a home for more than 200 exotic animals that have been donated, confiscated, or need permanent placement from other facilities.

The animals are specifically trained to be around people and groups. These animal ambassadors offer the unique opportunity to reach thousands of children and adults every year through educational programs. ❂

Escaramuza Charra, Main Horse Arena – 4:00pm

Escaramuza Charra El Centenario is the only female equestrian event in the Mexican charrería.

The escaramuza means “skirmish.” It consists of a team riding horses in choreographed synchronized maneuvers to music. The women ride side-saddle and wear traditional Mexican outfits including sombreros, dresses, and matching accessories. A team consists of 16 women, but only 8 rides at a time. The routine is practiced in a circular arena.

The escaramuza season runs from February to November. The U.S. nationals are held on Labor Day weekend. The grand finale is held in Mexico. The event brings together more than 80 teams from both countries. ❂

The Birdman Kiddie Korral

New this year, the nation’s top bird show!

Joe Krathwohl is known as “The Birdman®.” With 40 years of experience, he’s the number one choice in avian entertainment.

Condors with 10-foot wingspans, colorful macaws, prehistoric hornbills, and graceful cranes can be enjoyed during this natural, behavior-based show. The birds are trained with positive reinforcement.

The Birdman creates a uniquely intimate show. He takes you on a journey never experienced in a portable show… delivering a large-scale event with a unique mix of spectacular bird stunts and storytelling.

This show is entertaining, educational, informative, and spectacular! And it supports habitat preservation and condor conservation.

The more than 30-minute feathered extravaganza is an absolute must-see show! ❂

Kiddie Korral

The Santa Cruz County Fair is excited to announce the return of the Kiddie Korral!

The Kiddie Corral is located at Paddy Smith Park. It’s a grassy, shaded area in a quieter corner of the fairgrounds. Babies, toddlers, young children, and their guardians can socialize and get away from the grown-up crowds for a spell. It’s safe and comfortable space for families to take a break while the little ones run around or are entertained by our awesome volunteers! Then, when the energetic toddler has blown off some steam, the family can explore the rest of the Fair in harmony.

The Kiddie Korral will also offer a secluded space to breastfeed a baby with some privacy. ❂

Cartoon Poodles Camel Rides

New to the Fair this year, the perfectly poofy and pink Cartoon Poodles.

These dynamic dogs are a creation of the Abuhadba Family. Rafael and his family are from Chile, South America. They’re 7th generation circus performers and animal trainers. They specialize in the Poodle breed.

The poodles are more than a family tradition for the Abuhadbas; they’re like their children.

More than a dozen poodles share luxury living quarters with the Abuhadbas. They have a personal, mobile outdoor exercise yard as well.

The poodle education is simple. It requires lots of love, motivation, and treats. Additionally, these happy, talented canines amuse hundreds of spectators everyday with their energy and spark.

The famous and colorful poodles fly through the air, dance with glamorous night costumes, perform Conga lines, high dive through hoops, perform comical boxing matches, and much more. ❂

You might do a double take when you come across the camels at the Fair. And even more exciting than seeing them… you can ride them. Animal fact: Dromedary Camels have one hump. Grab a friend or two (camels can carry more than half their weight!) and hop on the back of a Dromedary Camel.

These camels were acquired from domestic breeders in the United States, as camels are no longer allowed to be imported into the U.S. Their owner, Kyle McGranahan, is a real-life cowboy who used to train horses. Until one fateful day, when a friend asked him to train a camel. He fell in love with the animals, sold his horses, and now works exclusively with camels.

The camels enjoy a diet like that of horses- grass, hay, and grain. Contrary to what many people think, the humps of the camels are not filled with water. They’re filled with dense fat. This fat can hold water for up to three weeks, which allows camels to survive for long periods of time without water in the desert. And there no need to be afraid, camels do no spit or bite. That’s a llama thing. (Sorry llamas, but it’s true.)

All the camels are extremely docile and enjoy being around people. Climb into the saddle for the ride of a lifetime! ❂

Horse Show Horse Show Arena

Horse Show

The majesty of horses – up close and personal.

The Fair’s Horse Show Arena is the perfect venue to watch your favorite riding competition or see something new for the first time. The Fair’s Horse Show features both English and Western riding.

The Horse Show opens Tuesday with the 4-H Horse Show. Local kids show their horses in a variety of disciplines. The show starts at 8am and will run all day.

On Wednesday, Team Roping! Pairs of riders compete against the clock to see which team can rope the steer first. The action starts at 7pm.

Thursday, cowboys and cowgirls compete individually and as teams to move cattle down the arena and from corral to corral. Two-man sorting starts at 6:30pm. Riders have 90 seconds to sort cattle in numerical order from one pen to the next.

Friday-Sunday

Two arenas, and all levels of experience, jump their horses over obstacles of various heights.

Starting at 5pm Friday, watch the Versatility Class. It involves riders entering the ring Western and exiting in English tack.

Saturday at 5pm, watch the Wild Card Gambler’s Choice. Riders create their own course of jumps. The jumps are worth various points – so strategy is key! Watch as they race around the arena to gather the most points in 50 seconds!

Friday and Saturday evening events also include team events including Pairs Jumpers, where two riders jump two different courses and jump the last fence together! ❂

Michael Mezmer

Tankhouse Stage

DangerMagik

Michael Mezmer is “The Phenomenist.”He has performed his death-defying and mind-blowing DangerMagik in front of millions of people in 25 countries. Venues include Disneyland, Las Vegas, the Great Wall of China, and the world-famous Magic Castle. Astonished audience members include princesses, presidents, and celebrities—namely, pop icon Michael Jackson.

But no venue is more excited to see him take the stage… than the Santa Cruz County Fair! It will be standing room only at the Tankhouse Stage.

DangerMagik is a family show featuring incredible demonstrations of organic magic phenomena. Mezmer uses razor blades, animal traps, staple guns, arrows, paintball guns, leather straps and chains to shock his audience. You think he could never survive the precarious situations he puts himself in… but that’s magic!

If you are among the bravest of fans, you can volunteer to join Mezmer on stage and be a part of his act. You’ll be amazed from a very up close and personal perspective.

The Society of American Magicians has named Michael Mezmer “Escape Artist of the Year” and “Best Illusionist.” You have never witnessed a show as unbelievable as DangerMagik! ❂

Trance-Nosis

Trance-nosis is an audience participation show! Don’t hesitate to hop on stage and be a part of the fun!

Michael Mezmer is a Master Hypnotist. His volunteers will face their fears, lose their inhibitions, and become highly entertaining headliners of the show. It’s all in good fun… the scenarios are sassy and silly.

Mezmer showed signs of his unique talent at the tender age of five. As an adult, he has become a wellknown and respected expert in the field of hypnosis. He is highly sought after as a lecturer as well as an entertainer. He presents quantum stress management workshops at corporate events and universities around the country. The International Hypnotherapy Conference has invited him to be a guest lecturer and starring performer.

Whether you’re on stage or in the audience, Trance-nosis is a show you don’t want to miss. ❂

CREATI VE

Diaper Derby

Diaper Derby & Toddler Contest

Sat., Sept. 16 – Patty Smith Park – 1:00pm

Slow and steady wins the race!

The annual Diaper Derby is the slowest two minutes in sports… but the determined little contestants sure know how to put on an exciting show.

The babies can crawl to victory by making a beeline for a parent at the finish line. But some just sit. Others wander off. Still, it ain’t over ‘til it’s over… you never know which infant will pull off the win.

The Toddler Contest moves along a little more quickly… as the participants can, well, toddle.

These events have roots in the celebrations held in pioneer communities. They were part of the Fair in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Beloved Fair supporter, Loretta Estrada, is responsible for bringing the races back to the Fair. They’ve grown in popularity each year.

The winning babies and toddlers will take home prizes … but nothing beats the bragging rights! ❂

Artist: Janet Ferraro

Los Moralitos Circus

Twinkle Time

The Los Moralitos Circus brings family fun and excitement with a high-energy performance of tumbling, acrobats, unicycles, aerialists and more. Los Moralitos is made up of 4th and 5th generation of circus performers. They take great pride in putting together a first-class professional performance for all ages.

Owner, Jonathan Vasquez, performs great stunts in the 30-foot tall “Wheel of Death…” at one point, he’ll even be blindfolded. The show also features the “Globe of Death” in which motorcyclists race past each other in 360-degree circles.

Then, there are the kids. Los Moralitos Circus writes on Facebook, “There is no greater feeling then knowing our 5th generation is turning up to be as crazy and talented as our previous generations. Best part is, they are learning most of it on their own, which is pure. This can only be explained by having love for an art that blocks everything else in the world, which allows you to focus and pursue what you love most, we call it CIRCUS!!!”

Just when you think you can’t handle any more death-defying circus stunts, “Chuy the Clown” will offer some comic relief. He’ll leave your stomach sore from laughing so much!

“We are excited to be expanding out to your community and will hopefully make this a Fair we perform at for many years to come,” says Vasquez. ❂

Twinkle Time

Tankhouse Stage

Kids go gaga for Twinkle Time!

With colorful costumes and hair, this bi-lingual, Peruvian-American performer has her young fans up and out of their seats… singing and dancing along with the show.

Twinkle, and her awesome sidekicks, put on a dynamic concert. It’s a mix of pop, Broadway belt, and hip hop. And tucked inside her catchy tunes, are messages of love and kindness.

Twinkle is inspired by Madonna, Lady Gaga, Gloria Estefan, Michael Jackson, Prince, Selena, Cher, and Shania Twain. But make no mistake this original songstress has always danced to the beat of her own drum.

Twinkle grew up in show business. As a tween, she was a series regular in the first Spanish family comedy, “Sanchez of Bel-Air,” on the Paramount/USA network. She also had a recurring role on NBC’s My Two Dads. At age 16, right out of high school, Twinkle packed her bags to rock out in “Jesus Christ Superstar” with Ted Neeley and the late Carl Anderson. She toured the U.S. and Canada with the National Broadway Tour. Twinkle has also done numerous national commercials and voiceovers in both English and Latin markets, including the singing voice for the Bratz doll commercials.

At the Santa Cruz County Fair, we wish it were Twinkle Time–all the time! ❂

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Jeremy the Juggler

Cisco Jim

Jeremy the Juggler

Jeremy Shafer rides his unicycle around the fair entertaining kids and parents with his masterful juggling and downright silly antics! He plays his hands like a flute, beatboxes, and dances salsa… all while juggling. He also surprises crowds with his incredible skills at singing mariachi songs.

Jeremy is a world-famous origami designer and YouTuber with more than 250 million views. If he can stay in one place long enough, you might get to see his one-of-a-kind origami act! ❂

The Santa Cruz County Fair is always proud to host Cisco Jim, The Singing Cowboy.

Cisco Jim will be sitting atop Taza de Mogollon. The duo will roam the fairgrounds with Cisco Jim singing and telling stories about the good old days here in the West. Cisco Jim is a retired educator with much to teach.

Taza is a Spanish Barb, a direct descendent of the first horses brought to the New World from Spain.

When you encounter this roving serenade, you’re in for a treat. ❂

Cisco Jim

Floriculture

The Floriculture Department is home to the most beautiful and colorful exhibits… you’ll walk through the doors into a garden paradis e.

This year, the Floriculture Department will feature all new Outdoor Garden and Floral Arrangement classes. Categories include “Grandma’s Garden,” “Rooted in the Golden State,” and the Fair theme – “Home Grown Locally Shown,” to encourage use of native plants and flowers grown by the exhibitors themselves. Floriculture is offering floral arrangement instructional classes Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.

On Friday and Saturday, also from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, instructors teach corsage workshops. Fairgoers will have the unique opportunity to create their own corsage or boutonniere. These demonstrations are free and open to all.

In addition, there will be daily, ongoing Bonsai demonstrations by the Santa Cruz and Watsonville Bonsai Clubs. On Saturday, from 10am-noon, there will be a special Bonsai demonstration. Watsonville High School FFA Floral and Horticulture Department students will compete for prize money and ribbons in floral design and succulent container garden classes.

Also, the Monterey Bay Dahlia Society will be in full bloom competing in what will be a fully sanctioned American Dahlia Society show. ❂

Gary Blackburn Band Grupo El Tpo

The Gary Blackburn Band

Wednesday, September 13

Amphitheater Stage – 7:30pm

Blackburn is a Santa Cruz County local and California Central Coast veteran singer/songwriter.

The Gary Blackburn Band is joining us on opening day… for the fourth consecutive year.

Gary brings smooth vocals and stylized guitar picking to the band. He’s joined by Kevin Taylor on keyboards, Sean Woodward on guitars and mandolin, Dan Waller on bass, and Tom Duncan on drums.

The band will be rocking the stage… performing a few of Gary’s original compositions and cool covers in the country, rock, folk, and blues genres.

Blending old school with contemporary, the Gary Blackburn Band will weave a memorable musical performance of songs that tell stories of love and forgiveness. Plus, hard-driving roots rock that will get you up dancing!

Gary likes to call it “Americana with an Edge!” Please visit https://garyblackburnmusic.com/ for more information. ❂

Grupo El Tpo

Sunday, September 17

Amphitheater – 7:00pm

Started up in the 80’s in Santa Ana, Ca. with hits like “Cada Dia Mas” “Por Eso Me Voy”.

“Tu Ex Amor” “De A Poquito”

La Reynalda” “En Tu Pelo” and much more.

The group participated in the most well known television programs in Mexico “Siempre en Domingo”.

“Furia Musical” and much more. In 2021 Roberto Lopez passed away due to Covid and now his sons.

Continue to keep the legacy of all his hits now as “Grupo El Tpo” The group in currently touring the US, Mexico, South America and Central America. ❂

The Sun KingsTsunami Band

The Sun Kings

Saturday, September 16

Amphitheater Stage – 7:30pm

The Sun Kings are “A Beatles Tribute as Nature Intended!”

This incredible tribute band has a repertoire of nearly 200 songs, spanning the entire Beatles’ epoch from Hamburg to the Rooftop.

The Sun Kings shine in concert delivering spot-on arrangements and vocal harmonies.

They perform with a driving energy, joy, and vitality that recalls the earliest Beatles’ performances.

“The Sun Kings are superb... as close to the Beatles live and in studio as possible,” says Ben Fong Torres, former editor of Rolling Stone Magazine and podcaster.

Experience The Sun Kings in concert and you will hear the concert The Beatles never gave! Visit www.thesunkings.com for more information. ❂

Tsunami Band

Thursday, September 14 – Amphitheater Stage – 7:30pm

Tsunami Band is an “out-the-gate, on-your-feet” rock-n-roll and classic rock dance band!

These five veteran musicians play high energy music from the 60s, 70s and 80s… with lots of surprises! Tsunami performs the great songs everyone remembers but few dare to cover.

Their song list includes “American Girl” by Tom Petty, “Call Me” by Blondie and “Down on the Corner” by Creedence Clearwater Revival… just to name a few.

Tsunami is renowned for its dynamic rhythm section, extraordinary guitar, and powerful vocals featuring three lead singers.

The band won Best Local Band in the 2021 Santa Cruz Good Times poll. Please visit www.Tsunami-Rocks.com for more information. ❂

The Houserocker Grown in Santa Cruz Coun

The Houserockers

Friday, September 15

Amphitheater Stage – 7:30pm

The Houserockers are a ten piece “Rock & Soul” band from the Bay Area. With a wailing five-piece horn section and rock-solid rhythm section, they bring to life timeless classics and today’s hits. In their words, “the greatest songs ever recorded.”

The band is known for giving electric and high energy concerts. Their sets fuse rock, blues, funk, 60s soul and R&B. You’ll sing and dance to songs by The Rolling Stones, Bruno Mars, Earth, Wind and Fire, Cee Lo Green, Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen… and many more!

The Houserockers won the KFOX Radio Last Band Standing contest, claiming the title of “Best Cover Band in the Bay Area.” They have opened for Eddie Money and Wang Chung, among others. The Houserockers: Big Band. Big Sound. Big Fun.

Please visit https://svhouserockers.com/ for more information. ❂

Grown in Santa Cruz County

By Luke Zamora – Pajaro Valley High School

I’m from Santa Cruz County, a place of pure beauty, Where the sweetest strawberries ripen up so fruitfully. Like these sweet berries, I’m ever changing, Growing and maturing, my life rearranging. Time is our enemy, yet also a friend

We wish to be ripe, before our end Fearful of failure, yet willing to try Onward we go with twists and turns, like a strawberry vine, Though we may look different, our cores are the same A tiny strawberry, a person with a name

We both are small yet large in a way

And are big parts of Santa Cruz County today.

Luke Zamora, a student at Pajaro Valley High School, is the 2023 winner of the National Agriculture Day poetry contest. Each year, the contest is organized locally by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau and Agri-Culture, Inc. Watch in the spring for the 2024 contest. ❂

Kelly Garcia Franklin, 5th grader at Mar Vista Elementary, Aptos, won the 2023 National Agriculture Day poster contest organized by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau and Agri-Culture, Inc.

Senior Contest/Quilts of V Frank Thurston Ma

Senior Contest on Senior Day

Wednesday, September 13 – 1pm Lawn in front of Amphitheater Stage

The Santa Cruz Country Fair is fun for patrons of all ages.

We invite our most honored guests of a certain age to compete in a Senior Contest, as part of Senior Day. The great news is… all seniors must do is be themselves!

The Senior Contest includes the following categories: oldest person in attendance, longest married couple, couple with the most great, great grandchildren, and the senior who traveled the furthest to attend the Fair.

Immediately following the contest, seniors can enjoy an Ice Cream Social. This year, the Ice Cream Social is sponsored by Santa Cruz County Bank. We thank Santa Cruz County Bank for helping make this very special event possible. ❂

Quilts of Valor

Wednesday, 11:55AM – Front Gate

Before the gates open on the first day of the Fair, there’s an event you don’t want to miss.

As part of the Opening Ceremonies, The Santa Cruz County Fair is proud to host a Quilts of Valor presentation.

Just before noon on Wednesday September 13th, very deserving veterans, who were nominated by family or friends, will receive a handsewn quilt. A biography of the veterans and their service will be read. It’s a tender moment in time… a chance honor these military heroes and show them our appreciation.

The Mission of the Quilts of Valor Foundation is to cover Service Members and Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor. ❂

Frank Thurston Paddy Smith Park

The Magic of Frank Thurston is an interactive, fun-filled, laughterpacked, family, comedy magic show.

It’s the perfect show for people of all ages.

Frank entertains as well as mystifies!

He’s known as the “Magician of FAMILY-FUN!”

Lola Montes Poultry –Poultry Building

Lola Montes

Her name means “Victory”. She has sung professionally since 8 years old. She is always smiling and has continuously achieved the “Victorious” applause of the public year after year.

From the Hollywood Bowl at a Mariachi Festival to an afternoon in Chula Vista, CA where she share a historic duet with the King, Vicente Fernandez.

Wearing heels or boots to ride her Favorite Andalusian Horse educated in Alta Escuela; Lola Montes made her first record debut, joining the label Arranque Records Inc. in 2014.

Passionate, of firm temperament, but sweet of character and cheerful, she is the voice and talent of this lifetime.

Lola Montes is the brightest star of Mexican regional music. Her album is called “Ahora va la mia”, her first single is “Lo que yo siento”. Of Mexican ancestry, she was born in East Los Angeles, California.

The young artiest currently lives on a ranch in Mira Loma, Jurupa Valley, Riverside, California, where she calls home alongside her greatest loves: her horses, animals, guitar and her family.

In music, her greatest passion is Mariachi being the traditional ranchera. She is Lola Montes “La Rebelde”. ❂

Arranque Records

951-231-4192 • ARRANQUERECORDS@YAHOO.COM

Poultry Show

This building on the fairgrounds is for the birds – and that’s a compliment!

The Poultry Building is filled with our feathered friends, including chickens, geese, and ducks…. sometimes baby chicks and ducklings too!

Poultry judging takes place on Wednesday September 13th, before the Fair opens. On Friday September 15th, you can watch egg judging at 3pm and showmanship at 4pm.

Following showmanship, don’t miss the Knowledge Bowl. It’s a game show type competition for kids regarding all things poultry!

And new this year, a poster contest and avian bowl! ❂

Capitola: 1955 41st Avenue 831-476-7330

Scotts Valley: 266 Mt. Hermon Road 831-438-0742

Watsonville : 445 & 1985 Main Street 831-761-8744

Amateur Wine Fine Arts & Poetry

Check out the fruits of their labor!

Inside Heritage Hall, you’ll find a beautiful display of bottles of wine… and it’s not something you’ll see at your local grocery store. The wine here comes from local amateur winemakers. These winemakers have created their homemade wines from regionally and locally grown grapes and fruit. The result is then judged by 18 judges, most of whom work professionally in the wine industry.

In early September, the winemakers get together to collect their awards… which include Best of Show, Best of White Wines, Best of Red Wines and Best of Other Wines. They also share their wine, swap stories about their wine making expertise and take part in an informal educational forum.

Fairgoers can learn all about the process of winemaking through the pictorial on display… showing winemakers at work picking, crushing, pressing, fermenting, and bottling.

Anyone interested in the art of winemaking can visit https:// www.sccfairwine.org to receive information about the competition and join the mailing list for amateur winemakers to exchange ideas and topical information. Photos are encouraged and may be emailed to kmarzullomedia@gmail.com. Please label each photo and provide a brief description.

The 2022 amateur wine display in Heritage Hall.

Fine Arts and Poetry Fine Arts Building

With so much artistic creativity in the Santa Cruz community, there are always surprises in the Fine Arts Department!

It’s hard to predict what will come through the doors until the last week of August, when the artists bring in their work. Judges award special rainbow ribbons to winners in categories including Excellence in Color, Design and Technique.

While you’re enjoying the beautiful art, you can also participate in a Home Grown and Locally Shown scavenger hunt! If you find all ten locally grown items in the Fine Arts Building, you get a prize!

Take a moment to admire the cow paintings… created by students on Education Day with the expert help of Art Educator, Donna Thompson.

Back by popular demand, Nathan Bennett and his team of glassblowers! They will amaze crowds with their torch skills. This is a one-time opportunity–7:00pm on Friday September 15th.

On Saturday September 16th at 1:00pm, the Poetry Department will host a special Poetry Recital with Poet Joseph Eaton. This year, the poetry will be judged, and winners will be featured and celebrated at the recital. Coffee, tea and lemonade will be served. ❂

Funding Your Fairgrounds Passport to the Fair

Funding Your Fairgrounds Future For Over 20 Years!

Ask yourself, or your neighbor, what memories the bring to mind and will get all the real reasons why it is so important to our community. Some of the comments you might hear are…

“Most of the special moments in m life have taken place at the Fairgrounds - my first date was there, I had some of my birthday parties there, and my wedding reception was there”

“I was so glad the Fairgrounds was ready for me when we had to evacuate our home during the floods this past year”

“Every year the Fair is like a big reunion where I see friends I haven’t seen since last year’s fair”

Whatever your memories, they are worth keeping and so is the place where those memories were made. Your donation to the Fairgrounds Foundation will preserve our Fairgrounds for many more memories just like yours.

Every year the Foundation funds various projects on your Fairgrounds. The Fairgrounds Foundation continues to support the Fairgrounds future by providing necessary equipment and project support. This past year the Foundation helped fund the replacement roof on the Harvest Building. The Foundation’s current fundraising campaign is underway to add a kitchen and restroom facilities to Heritage Hall.

As always, your tax-deductible donation of any amount makes a tremendous difference ini the avidity to complete projects. The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) charitable organization. Log onto fairgrounds-foundation.org for more information or to donate.

The Foundation will once again present the Holiday Craft and Gift Fair (December 1st and 2nd, 2023) and partner with the Agricultural History Project to present the fourth year of HOLIDAY LIGHTS on Friday-Saturday-Sundays beginning November 24 through December 24, 2023.

Your Passport to the 2023 Fair!

There’s so much to see and do at this year’s Santa Cruz County Fair. The Fair’s Passport program is returning once again. Using this FREE passport, you can find your way around the grounds. Visit the Livestock area, Home Arts, Agriculture, Flower Building, Legos, Collectibles, Fine Art and Poultry as well as many others. Collect a stamp at each location and bring your completed Passport to the INFORMATION TENT for a prize.

Passports are available in most buildings and at the INFORMATION TENT where Fairgrounds Foundation Volunteers will answer your questions about the fair, where things are located, times for shows and how to get to that special event you want to see.

At the INFORMATION TENT you can also get this year’s Fair souvenirs - hats, shirts, and fair pins.

Contact: Ron Haedicke or Kaleena Mornard – Fairgrounds Foundation (831) 786-9698. ❂

Happy, healthy neighbors. That’s our mission.

Kaiser Permanente is a proud supporter of the Santa Cruz County Fair.

At Kaiser Permanente, we continuously strive to improve the conditions for health and equity in our communities. That’s why we’re excited to be a part of Santa Cruz County. Our doors, hearts and minds are always open to help you thrive. Learn more at kp.org

For all that is Santa Cruz County. For all that is you.

YouthHOrganizations ome Arts

Youth Organizations Department – JJ Crosetti Building

Head into the JJ Crosetti Building to check out the creations of some very creative kids!

Youth Organizations, including 4-H, FFA, Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, the Boys and Girls Club and Grange Youth, bring to life the theme of the 2023 Fair—Home Grown and Locally Shown. Each group builds and decorates a large display showcasing the strengths of their club. This year, there’s also a Scarecrow Contest!

Be sure to enjoy a very special display at the entrance to the building. And, a selfie station for all of your photo needs! ❂

Home Arts

2023 is an exciting year for Home Arts!

Many returning demonstrators are on hand including the Wood Carvers, Rug Makers and the Quilters.

And be ready to learn something new. Our exhibits change every year depending on our entries. Jewelry, Knitting, Crochet and Art projects fill the glass cases. Make sure you see them all.

Seek out the unusual canned and preserved treats, along with baked goods.

And, as always, look up to see the beautiful handmade quilts.

Check the marquee in front of the Harvest Building for dates and times of your favorite demonstrations.

Don’t miss the Fresh Salsa Contest on Saturday, September 16th. Entries need to be at Home Arts by 3:00pm. (Entering the Salsa Contest does not gain you entry to the Fair, you must buy a Fair ticket to enter the fairgrounds.)

Judging is at 3:30pm. Bring it on!

Remember, you’re always home in Home Arts. ❂

Apple Pie Contest “Best of Show 2022”

Can you beat this apple pie?

Janice Weaver, of Santa Cruz won “Best of Show” at the 2022 Santa Cruz County Fair for the third year in a row. The contest is sponsored by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau, and this year will be the 46th Annual Apple Pie Baking Contest. The judges change each year. When the fair starts Sept. 13, watch for the contest on Wednesday. Last year, more than 40 apple pies were entered in the three divisions, Youth, Adult and Masters.

Here are the 2022 winners:

Youth: 1st, Rosa Taylor, Santa Cruz, 2nd Marisa Wood, Watsonville, 3rd, Keara McNutt, Watsonille.

Adult: 1st, Stephanie Hedgpeth, Watsonville, Andrew Kasunich, Royal Oaks, 3rd, Leslie Achord, Boulder Creek.

Masters: Janice Weaver, Santa Cruz, Rita Hewitt, Watsonville, Tim Verterli, Soquel.

Want to try Janice’s recipe?

Taste for yourself.

2022 APPLE PIE Janice Weaver

Crust

2 ½ cups flour

1 tablespoon salt

1 cup butter

½ cup water

Combine dry ingredients. Cut butter into flour in little pieces. Add cold water, and combine until holding together. Divide in half, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate.

Filling

8-9 apples, peeled, cored and sliced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 tablespoon salt

1 T cornstarch

Roll out one half of dough and fit into 9” pie pan. Toss filling ingredients together and pour into shell. Roll out second half of dough for top of pie. Crimp it together, and bake at 375 for 45-50 minutes.

Janice Weaver’s award winning pie.

Apple pies ready for tasting in 2022.

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