The fair is a summertime tradition for many locals and Friday’s opening night was no exception as the enthusiastic crowd was indicative of an up and coming successful season for the Stanislaus County Fair.
Budweiser Variety Free Stage opening act Wynonna Judd drew a large crowed along with the diverse variety of food options from chocolate covered bacon to the traditional corn dog.
“The familiarity of the food stands each year is something we like. When we come, we always get the iced coffee from the Sno Biz stand and enjoy walking around,” said Olivia Soto, a teenager from Turlock.
While many come to stroll the lanes within the fairgrounds campus and meet up with friends and family from across the county, the annual event that draws thousands to the fairgrounds has also made a significant impact online this year.
“This year we did more social media ,we used Instagram mainly, and by utilizing that technology medium along with our younger guests’ use of it I think really made an impact online. People are more aware of all the things they can come and enjoy at the fair this year,” added Adrenna Alkhas, marketing and communications director for the Stanislaus County Fair.
“We’ve used social media since we’ve been here, mainly Snapchat and Twitter,” added Soto.
Locals were able to charge their phones at the fair by accessing the centrally located ReCharge Modesto Toyota Lounge that provided cell phone chargers for Android and iPhone devices amidst the vast food vendors’ offerings.
From the traditional petting zoo for the little ones to the unique new beer floats for purchase to support the Turlock Rotary Club, this year the Stanislaus County Fair offers locals the traditional experience with a touch of modernity.
Upcoming concerts — free with fair admission — include: legendary Billboard chart topping group Kansas, which will be shaking things up at the fair today, followed by Hispanic platinum recording artists Banda Machos with special guest La Unica Sonora Santanera on Sunday. Three time Broadcast Music Inc. song of the year winner Rodney Atkins will take the stage on Monday and the "Celebration" will continue with Kool & the Gang on Tuesday.
California Cowboys Pro Rodeo action will be In the FoodMaxx Arena today and Sunday, followed by two nights of Destruction Derby. Tickets to arena events are not included in fair admission and must be purchased separately.
The fair runs through July 20. For more information, follow the fair at twitter.com/stancofair, become a fan of the Fair at facebook.com/stancofair or visit stancofair.com.
