Livestock Exhibitor Feature – Charlotte Houseweart of Kingsburg FFA

Meet one of the dedicated exhibitors working toward this year’s Jr. Livestock Auction 🐖🐄🐑

 

Charlotte Houseweart, a Kingsburg FFA exhibitor from Kingsburg High School, is putting in the time and dedication as they prepare for this year’s auction. Here’s her story:

 

“I joined the FFA my freshman year because going into high school I wanted to find a strong community of others who shared similar interests, and would also push me to challenge myself and grow. I have had the opportunity to be a part of so many unique and transformative experiences that cannot be found anywhere but this wonderful program. Not only have I grown through raising livestock, but I’ve also participated in competitions and elections which have taught me lifelong lessons like how to be a better public speaker. On top of learning life lesson, I’ve also made so many new friendships!

 

This year I am raising my second market swine, a uniquely colored light cross barrow named Paddy, who loves eating marshmallows and getting baths! This summer I’ve spent hours training him for the ring, making sure he’s gaining plenty of weight, and caring for him.”

 

Help support Charlotte and fellow 4-H and FFA exhibitors by participating in the Jr. Livestock Auction as a buyer or through an add-on bid. Every contribution makes a difference.

 

The 2026 Big Fresno Fair Jr. Livestock Auction kicks off Saturday, October 10, with additional sales continuing Saturday, October 17.

 

Details on how to become a buyer or place an add-on bid will be available soon. Every bit of support makes a difference for these hardworking students. Learn more here!

Win Tickets to See Matt Maher with Special Guest Caleb & John!

AN EVENING OF FAITH, WORSHIP & MUSIC IS COMING TO The Big Fresno Fair!

 

Join acclaimed Christian artist Matt Maher with special guests Caleb & John for an uplifting night of live music on Tuesday, October 13 — and enter for your chance to experience it for FREE! To enter, just head to our Big Fresno Fair socials – Facebook, or Instagram – and follow the contest rules on the post! The contest ends on Tuesday, September 1 by midnight. Winner will be notified via DM.

 

Don’t miss an inspiring night of faith and music with Matt Maher and special guests Caleb & John on Tuesday, October 13 as part of the Table Mountain Concert Series presented by Toyota!

 

For more concert details, click here.

Prepare for Your Visit: The Big Fresno Fair’s Clear Bag Policy

Reminder! The Big Fresno Fair’s Clear Bag Policy returns for 2026.

 

Before heading to the Fair, here’s what you need to know:

 

  • Clear bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″
  • Small non-clear clutches or fanny packs up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ x 2″
  • Diaper bags and medically necessary bags are permitted
  • All bags are subject to inspection before entry

 

Plan ahead for a smooth arrival! View the full policy on our website here.

Purchase Grandstand Event Tickets for the 2026 Big Fresno Fair!

The countdown is on!

 

Get ready for action-packed entertainment in the Brian I. Tatarian Grandstand at the 2026 Big Fresno Fair! Tickets are on sale now online or at the Box Office, so now’s the time to secure your seats before they’re gone! Reserve your seats now for:

 

  • October 9 & 10 | Big Fresno Fair Pro Rodeo | Tickets start at $7
  • October 16 | Demolition Derby | Tickets start at $5
  • October 17 | 2nd Annual Big Fresno Fair Car Show| FREE with paid Fair admission
  • October 17 | 11th Annual Beer & Wine Fest | Tickets start at $35
  • October 18 | Monsters of Destruction: Monster Trucks | Tickets start at $10

 

For more details on this year’s Grandstand entertainment line-up, visit our website here!

 

The 2026 Big Fresno Fair Grandstand entertainment is sponsored by Table Mountain Casino Resort and Coors Light.

Livestock Exhibitor Feature – Meleah Williamson of Clovis FFA

Hard work is already underway for this October’s Jr. Livestock Auction! 🐑

 

Meet today’s featured exhibitor: Meleah Williamson of Clovis FFA!

 

“FFA is important to me because it has taught me responsibility, leadership, and hard work. Raising a pig for the 2026 Big Fresno Fair means taking care of my animal every day and making sure it stays healthy and strong. Through FFA, I’ve gained confidence, made new friends, and learned valuable life skills that will help me long after the Fair is over. I’m proud to be part of an organization that helps me grow and succeed.

 

My FFA project is raising a light cross gilt for the 2026 Big Fresno Fair. Through this project, I’ve learned responsibility, hard work, and patience by caring for my pig every day. I feed, exercise, and monitor its health to help it grow and reach its full potential. Raising my pig has taught me valuable life skills and given me a better understanding of agriculture and livestock production. One of my favorite parts of the project is building a bond with my pig and watching it grow. It was exciting to see the progress we have made together. I’m excited to showcase all of my hard work at The Big Fresno Fair.”

 

Help support Meleah and fellow 4-H and FFA exhibitors by participating in the Jr. Livestock Auction as a buyer or through an add-on bid. Every contribution makes a difference.

 

The 2026 Big Fresno Fair Jr. Livestock Auction kicks off Saturday, October 10, with additional sales continuing Saturday, October 17.

 

Details on how to become a buyer or place an add-on bid will be available soon. Every bit of support makes a difference for these hardworking students. Learn more here!

How to Enter the 2026 Big Fresno Fair Competitive Exhibits Program

Do you have a hobby you’re proud of? Show it off at the 2026 Big Fresno Fair!

 

Whether you enjoy baking, gardening, photography, quilting, woodworking, fine arts or another creative pursuit, the Competitive Exhibits Program is your chance to share your talents with the community.

 

Download your section of the 2026 Competitive Exhibits Handbook to get started. All entries must be submitted online by Monday, September 7 at midnight.

 

Questions or need help entering? Please call our Exhibits Department at (559) 650-3247 (ext. 1110) or tcollins@fresnofair.com.

Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 Table Mountain Concert Series!

Live music is calling!

 

Don’t miss the 2026 Table Mountain Concert Series presented by Modelo Especial and Toyota featuring 12 nights of incredible entertainment in the Paul Paul Theater at The Big Fresno Fair!

 

Buy your tickets online or visit the Fair Box Office (1121 S. Chance Ave.) Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

See the full lineup on our website here!

Livestock Exhibitor Feature – Madalyn Welton of Reedley Middle College FFA

Hard work is already underway for this October’s Jr. Livestock Auction! 🐑

 

Meet today’s featured exhibitor: Madalyn Welton of Reedley Middle College FFA!

 

“I first got involved in FFA because my whole family did, and every one of them agreed I would love FFA. This program is important to me because I have got to meet so many more people, as well as find people who share the same interest in animals as me.

 

I currently have two animals this year. This is my third year with a lamb, and first with a heifer. My heifer, Pearl, is very calm, though a bit lazy. Thankfully she is amazing when it comes time for the arena, and I am forever happy she is the first heifer I get to show. I actually got a heifer instead of a steer this year because I will be keeping her at my family’s ranch, since I know I could not part with her.

 

My other animal I have had for a long time so far. I cannot figure out a name for him yet though, since I have spent so much time with him, and he is a very kind lamb, no name is good enough for him. He is one I can simply let go in a pen without a leash, or even outside, and he will follow me around. I am very excited to show him, and I hope to do well. Both my animals I am incredible proud of, as they have turned out better than I could ever hope for.”

 

Help support Madalyn and fellow 4-H and FFA exhibitors by participating in the Jr. Livestock Auction as a buyer or through an add-on bid. Every contribution makes a difference.

 

The 2026 Big Fresno Fair Jr. Livestock Auction kicks off Saturday, October 10, with additional sales continuing Saturday, October 17.

 

Details on how to become a buyer or place an add-on bid will be available soon. Every bit of support makes a difference for these hardworking students. Learn more here!

Test Your Luck! Head to The Starting Gate to Watch & Wager | August 20 – 23

Ready to win?! Head to the Fresno Fairgrounds Starting Gate from August 20 – 23 to place your bets and win some BIG money, grab a drink and feel the thrill of the track via satellite! 🍻🐎 Check out which stakes races you can watch and wager on this week:

 

  • August 22 |Del Mar Oaks | $300,000
  • August 22 | Pacific Classic Stakes | $1,000,000
  • August 22 | Del Mar Mile Stakes | $300,000
  • August 22 | Green Flash Handicap | $150,000
  • August 22 | Alabama Stakes | $600,000

 

The Starting Gate is located on the 2nd floor of the Grandstand at the Fresno Fairgrounds. Hours are Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Fridays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Gate times subject to change.

 

Admission is free on Thursdays and $10 from Friday to Sunday. Parking is also free – just park in front of the Grandstand. For more information, contact Ronnie Mobley at (559) 994-3105. More details here. 

Livestock Exhibitor Feature | Sophia Tovar of Reedley Middle College FFA

Every exhibitor has a story – and we’re excited to share a few as we count down to the Jr. Livestock Auction 🐔

 

Meet today’s Reedley Middle College FFA exhibitor, Sophia Tovar!

 

“I first got involved in the FFA through showing livestock. I showed a market barrow my freshman year of high school, and little did I know that simple decision would lead me to a state championship, many awards, leadership positions, and a deeper love for showing livestock. Showing livestock has not only taught me about responsibility, but it has taught me to appreciate the things we have in life. Enjoy the little moments with your animal, because you’ll never know when the last time you walk, feed, work hair, or practice showmanship will be.

 

This year, I decided to raise a market steer named Lucky. Over the course of several months, I’ve had the opportunity to take Lucky to several jackpot shows, including California State Fair. This steer will always hold a special place in my heart, not because of the banners we won together, but because of the bond and love that I have grown to have for him. Though my time with Lucky is coming to an end, I know the memories with him will last a lifetime.”

 

Help support Sophia and fellow 4-H and FFA exhibitors by participating in the Jr. Livestock Auction as a buyer or through an add-on bid. Every contribution makes a difference.

 

The 2026 Big Fresno Fair Jr. Livestock Auction kicks off Saturday, October 10, with additional sales continuing Saturday, October 17.

 

Details on how to become a buyer or place an add-on bid will be available soon. Every bit of support makes a difference for these hardworking students. Learn more here!