Fair History Facts

1910s

Turlock‘s first ever Melon Carnival was held in 1911 in Turlock‘s downtown and included a melon rolling contest, baseball games with Turlock vs. Oakdale and a parade.

1920s

In 1927 a sevenacre plot of ground was acquired as a permanent location for the carnival, and in 1929, the Fairgrounds’ Arch Gate was constructed using smooth river boulders.

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1930s

In the 1930s, the Stanislaus District Fair succeeded the melon carnivals and the first Kiddie Kapers Parade was held, where youth from Turlock paraded in costumes. This parade became a popular event that some considered to be the highlight of the Fair for its 18-year run.

1940s

The Fair was not held during World War II at which time JapaneseAmericans were assembled at the Fairgrounds for 3 ½ months before being relocated to inland areas of the U.S. For the remainder of the war, the grounds were used by the Army as a Rehabilitation Center. An annual carnival was still held downtown, sponsored by a citizens committee to aid wartime relief.

1950s

The 1950s saw the construction of the arena grandstands, as well as a Roller Rink in one of the current exhibit buildings. The 1959 Fair featured a Hawaiian theme in honor of the new state, during which entertainers were flown in directly from Hawaii for special performances.

1960s

The 1960s brought many firsts to the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds. The first CSU Stanislaus classes were held before the college moved to its current location, the first livestock auction and the first replacement heifer sale were held and Patricia Gaard became the first woman appointed to the Fair‘s Board of Directors.

1970s

The Fair expanded to seven days in 1975.

1980s

The Fair expanded to nine days in 1981, and in 1989 a Fair attendance record was made when 261,089 persons attended – this record is still unsurpassed.

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1990s

In 1994 the Fair expanded to its current 10-day length and opened its on-site satellite wagering facility, the Turlock Turf Club. In 1999, the Fair‘s Board of Directors with support of the Turlock American Legion resolved that the Stanislaus County Fair Arch Gate be recognized as a California State Point of Historical Interest.

2000s

The world changed dramatically during the turn of the millennium. The rapid development of new technology changed society and The Stanislaus County Fair was no exception. Internet access was made available to vendors needing point of sale transactions on their computers, the Fair launched a new website, and many guests were able to purchase Fair tickets in the convenience of their homes. The Fair also promoted going “green” with its many green initiatives around the Fairgrounds.