Fairs were built on the foundation of agriculture. The Big Fresno Fair started in 1882 as a 5-day event with horse racing, livestock and produce displays. Now, 138 years later, the Wells Fargo Agriculture Building is one of the largest in the Western US, drawing visitors from around the world each October. Showcasing the abundance of agriculture in the #1 Ag producing county in the world, it is a source of pride for Fresno County communities whose volunteers work hard to put together their displays for judging and for the community to enjoy and learn.

Fairs also serve as a connection point between agriculture and our urban populations – showcasing the extensive varieties of fruits and vegetables grown by hardworking farmers; providing the chance to learn about characteristics of different varieties and seeing how things grow.

For this and so much more we are grateful for fairs throughout the state, nation and world. We hope you are too. Join us and show your appreciation for the incredible way fairs and fairgrounds serve their communities.

The bright lights of the carnival go hand in hand with fairs. The iconic Ferris Wheel providing that perfect photo backdrop. The roller-coasters filling the air with the sounds of delightful screams from thrill seekers. Or the child walking around, beaming with pride as they carry the giant stuffed animal just won for them. Carnivals are more than bright lights – they are an experience of joy that create memories for many years to come!

We are grateful to have family-owned Butler Amusements run our carnival at The Big Fresno Fair for more than 25 years. To know the devastating impact that this year has had on them, their company and their staff – and all the carnival providers throughout the nation – hurts our hearts. They are family. We are a fair family. And we are hopeful that we will rise out of this together. Here’s to hopefully seeing you in October with the lights of the carnival shining bright.

Fairgrounds are a place where people from all cultures and backgrounds come together in celebration. At The Big Fresno Fair – and at fairs throughout the US – that diversity is not only celebrated, but showcased! Whether that is through music, dancing, art, food or more…diversity is one of the many things that make fairs and fairgrounds special. So today, in honor of Fairgrounds Appreciation Month we salute the diversity that is celebrated at fairs throughout the US – and especially at our Big Fresno Fair!