Big Fresno Fair Opens with New Rides, Concerts

The Big Fresno Fair opened Oct. 1 and runs through Oct. 12 at the Fresno Fairgrounds, with gates opening at 4 p.m., a $5 opening-day admission and tiered general-admission pricing for families and seniors. Sunny, mild weather around 80°F and amenities like large cooling fans have helped draw crowds to exhibits including the livestock pavilion—featuring miniature donkeys and goats—and upcoming Junior Livestock Auctions for goats, rabbits and swine. New attractions this year include the Ivy Bar, Candy Maze Selfie Trail, Jurassic Adventure, Sea Lion Splash and THE KING ride, while grandstand events feature rodeo, car shows, Arenacross, monster trucks, a Beer & Wine Fest and concerts by Joan Jett, Trace Adkins and other ’90s artists. Organizers honored late fair pioneer John Harris with a commemorative plaque and noted that horse racing will not return this year. Fair officials emphasized safety with state inspections, independent ride checks and a new bag policy, and offered discounts such as discounted presale tickets, reduced ride wristbands and $3 food Thursdays.