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Club (Ages 0–5)
Moo-La Club (Ages 6–12)
Grow Forward (Ages 13–17)
Valley Thrive (Ages 18–25)
Chickadee
The steak lovers cut. Lean, juicy and tender with unlimited crispy shrimp. Choice of side included.
PUBLISHER/OWNER
Hank Vander Veen
EDITOR
Kristina Hacker
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Harold L. George
ADVERTISING
Beth Flanagan
Melody Wann
Charles Webber
DIGITAL FULFILLMENT COORDINATOR
Rich Matheson
Publisher’s Letter
There’s something magical about summer in Stanislaus County— the familiar smell of fair food, the buzz of excitement in the air, and the timeless tradition of gathering for a celebration that’s woven into our local identity. We’re thrilled to bring you this special publication highlighting all things Stanislaus County Fair: a cherished event that has grown from its humble beginnings as the Turlock Melon Carnival into one of the region’s most anticipated summer highlights.
Inside these pages, you’ll find everything you need to plan your fair experience—from schedules and ticket information to an easy-to-navigate map and helpful tips for making the most of your visit. Don’t miss the spotlight on the action-packed arena events, including the ever-popular destruction derby and thrilling rodeo. Plus, this year’s entertainment line-up delivers big names and bigger energy, with performances from Clint Black, Common Kings, Diamond Rio, Ashanti and more.
SCAN this to advertise in next year’s Fair Mag, or call Manteca • (209) 249-3500 Newman • (209) 243-8170 Oakdale • (209) 847-3021 Turlock • (209) 634-9141
Stanislaus Fair Mag is published once a year
Stanislaus Fair Mag is a product of
We’re also proud to include a walk through the fair’s rich history—its roots, its evolution, and the stories that have helped shape it into the community cornerstone it is today. It’s a chance to celebrate not just the carnival rides and concerts, but the heart of Stanislaus County itself: its people.
As always, we’re grateful for the support of our advertisers, whose partnership helps make publications like this possible. We encourage you to support their businesses, just as they support our community. Here’s to fun, laughter, and shared summer memories—we’ll see you at the fair!
Hank Vander Veen Owner & Publisher
THE ULTIMATE GATHERING PLACE
By KRISTINA HACKER
Every year at this time the region gets a little smaller. This phenomenon is not caused by a rip in the space-time continuum or is it a matter of geographical wonder — it’s called fair time. Because of its appeal to young and old and those with varied interests, the fair is the ultimate gathering place. Some might say that we now have social media as a universal gathering place. One hundred years ago, the days of the fair might have been the only way to reconnect with old friends. But today, one only needs to visit social media and within minutes you can be reunited with everyone in your high school graduating class.
THE FAIR CREATES BONDS THAT SCREENS CAN'T.
like interests can meet for the first time. Sitting in the stands next to you during the demolition derby could be your next best friend, or partner. After the apple pie competition is judged, those whose passion is baking might just strike up a life-long friendship or find a new culinary partner. If you have two antique tractors sitting in your garage, then the fair is definitely the place for a little gear talk.
The fair is also the best place to make lasting family memories. I still remember my first trip to the county fair. The corn dogs, carnival rides and farm animals were great, but the best part was walking around the fair with my mom and dad and experiencing everything together.
It’s true that social media has made reunions of all kinds just a few clicks away, but seeing someone face to face and sharing in the experience of the fair creates bonds that no computer screen can emulate.
The fair is also where people with
This multi-generational love of the fair is not uncommon here in Stanislaus County. Take a look around during your next visit to the fair and you are sure to see happy families making life-long memories.
WITHSTANDING THE TEST OF TIME
GENERATIONS OF TRUST IN US
Treasured family traditions are passed down through generations. For 159 years, Bank of Stockton has helped families and businesses succeed and achieve their dreams. If you’re looking for a bank that’s different, one that gets to know you, put your trust in our years of experience and service. We can help you build a tradition of financial success for your generation and beyond.
Hill Maple Products Kids Zone Livestock/Animals Shows + Judging
Shows + Judging
8:45 PM
Demonstrations, + Contests
Demonstrations, + Contests
Noble Motorsports has been serving the Modesto Area for over 18 years. We offer full line of accessories for all your vehicle needs. Whether you want a full build on your ride or just want to dress your car with some wheels and tires. Here at Noble we do it all. We are a one stop shop for all your automotive needs. We have qualified techs on site as well as our top notch sales team to answer all of your questions. Stop by today and you won’t be disappointed.
FROM MONSTER TRUCKS TO RODEO ACTION
ARENA EVENTS PROMISE THRILLS
The FoodMaxx Arena will be filled with pulse-pounding, adrenaline-inducing action for all 10 nights of the Stanislaus County Fair. Each event requires ticket purchase and can be found at: stancofair.com.
TRUCK AND TRACTOR PULLS
JULY 10 AND 11
Thunder in the Valley – Two Nights of Pulling Power: Truck & Tractor Pulls are jam-packed with competitors in all classes from local stock 4x4’s to multi engine tractors sure to keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Get ready for an earthshaking night of high-horsepower chaos as the region’s toughest modified trucks and tractors battle the sled for ultimate bragging rights. This event is sponsored by Black Oak Casino Resort
BLOODLESS BULLFIGHTS
JULY 12
TPA’s Portuguese Bloodless Bullfights are a daring event rich in the culture and tradition of Portugal. Featuring multiple bulls and teams of forcados, as well as cavalieros on horseback. The bullfights will also feature DJ Brown Sugar. This event is sponsored by La Mejor Magazine.
DESTRUCTION DERBY II
JULY 14
Equated to bumper cars, but with real vehicles and motorhomes, Destruction Derby 2: Mayhem & Motorhomes consists of three preliminary rounds, consolidation round and one final Champion heat.
DESTRUCTION DERBY I
JULY 13
Equated to bumper cars, but with real vehicles, Destruction Derby 1: Summer Smash consists of three preliminary rounds, consolidation round and one final Champion heat. This event is sponsored by Thompson Chevrolet.
MONSTER TRUCKS
JULY 15 AND 16
Monster Trucks and Tough Trucks including the exhilarating Survivor, Enforcer, Playin for Keeps, Wicked Strong more will tear up the arena. This event is sponsored by the Turlock Poker Room & Casino
PRCA RODEO
JULY 17
Sanctioned by Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and featuring top contestants in all events including Bull Riding, Bronc Riding, Team Roping, Women’s Barrel Racing, Break Away Roping, Clown Acts and more, the rodeo will take over the Stanislaus County Fair arena.
MOTOCROSS
JULY 18
The motocross event will feature riders of all ages, including women and children, on everything from 50cc to +40 Quads, Rhinos and Dirt bikes. This event is sponsored by 209 Magazine.
HUMPZ N' HORNZ
JULY 19
This Hispanic rodeo event consists of dancing horses, Escaramuza bull riding, and live banda music and more.
The Stanislaus County Fair is once again bringing 10 nights of top-notch entertainment to the Modelo Variety Free Stage.
The free nightly concerts start at 8:30 p.m. as part of the Black Oak Casino Resort Concert Series. From country to rock and fan-favorite acts, live music takes over the Modelo Variety Free Stage every night. All concerts are free with paid Fair admission
The live entertainment will begin on July 10 with Grammy, CMA and ACM award-winning artist Clint Black. Black has one of the most storied careers in modern music. He surged to superstardom as part of the fabled
FAIR ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP INCLUDES COUNTRY STARS, REGGAE 'KINGS' AND A TWIST ON TAYLOR
By KRISTINA HACKER
Class of ‘89, reaching #1 with five consecutive singles from his tripleplatinum debut, “Killin’ Time.” He followed that with the triple-platinum “Put Yourself in My Shoes,” and then a string of platinum and gold albums throughout the ‘90s. Perhaps most impressively, Black wrote or co-wrote every one of his more than three
dozen chart hits, including “A Better Man,” “Killin’ Time,” “When My Ship Comes In,”
“A Good Run of Bad Luck,” “Summer’s Comin’,”
“Like the Rain,” and “Nothin’ But the Taillights,” part of a catalog that produced 22 #1 singles and made him one of the most successful singer/ songwriters of the modern era.
Along the way, Black has sold over 20 million records, earned more than a dozen gold and platinum awards in the U.S. and Canada including
Ashanti
a Grammy, landed nearly two dozen major awards and nominations, earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and received the prestigious BMI Icon Award at the 73rd annual BMI Country Awards in Nashville in 2025, recognizing his significant and lasting influence on music and his role in shaping ‘90s country music. In addition to touring across North America, Black hosted his own talk show, “Talking in Circles,” on Circle TV.
Common Kings will bring their signature island sound, feel-good energy and crowdfavorite hits to the Fair on July 11.
Common Kings are more than a band of musicians, they are a family, a lifestyle, a community, a brother and sisterhood, having grown up together in Orange County, four college mates who first met at a backyard barbecue 20-some years ago. Music was the common bond for these Pacific Islanders (all but one first-generation Americans) who have together transcended their Polynesian
COMMON KINGS HAVE BEEN RELEASING MUSIC ON THEIR OWN ISLAND EMPIRE/MENSCH HOUSE RECORDS LABEL FOR MORE THAN A DECADE
reggae roots to achieve pop crossover success since releasing their first music in 2011 – Samoan-born Hawaiian lead singer Sasualei “Jr. King” Maliga and Hawaiiraised Samoan guitarist Taumata “Mata” Grey; Fijiborn bassist Ivan “Uncle Lui” Kirimaua, and L.A.-born Tongan drummer Jerome “Big Rome” Taito. The band has toured with Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, Meghan Trainor, Fifth Harmony and CeeLo as well as headlining their own shows and music festivals around the world.
Common Kings have been releasing music on their own Island Empire/Mensch House Records label for more than a decade, with their first fulllength debut, 2017’s “Lost in Paradise,” nominated for Best Reggae Album at the Grammys. The long-awaited follow-
DJ Oh Mars.................................................10:00 PM
Ridge Hill Maple Products Kids Zone
Captain Jack Spareribs.......6:30, 8:00, 9:45 PM
Kids Stage:
up, aptly named “CELEBRATION,” follows a series of five songwriting camps around the country (Miami, Hawaii, Orange County, Nashville, L.A.), winnowing down 120 songs to 12 over the course of almost two years during and after the pandemic.
Stanley’s Art Studio: Makers Workshop - Suncatchers.........5:00 PM
Their sound has evolved to blend mainstream country with rock, country-pop, and Christian influences. They have received multiple CMA and ACM awards for Vocal Group of the Year and boast 13 Grammy Award nominations. The band’s classic lineup— famous for recording all of their own instrumentals rather than using studio musicians— includes:
Small Animal Poultry.................................9:00 AM
Mi Banda El Mexicano De German Roman will take the stage on July 12. Román is the creator of the caballito rhythm. He was born in Guasave, Sinaloa, and built his artistic career in the city of Mazatlán. He is also the author, songwriter, and arranger of songs such as “La Bota,” “La Morena,” “Feliz, Feliz,” “Borrachito” and many more. His success has taken him to many countries, including the United States, Canada, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Guatemala.
Dan Truman (Keyboards)
Dana Williams (Bass, harmony vocals)
Exhibits, Demonstrations, + Contests
Sign Ups: 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
Small Animal Ring: Cavy Show & Showmanship....................8:00 AM Breeding Rabbit Show...............................8:30 AM Linhares Dairy Ring: Market Goats................................................5:00 PM
Thurman Pavilion: Market Swine................................................7:00 AM
Grammy-winning country and Christian band Diamond Rio is coming to the Fair on July 13. Known for their tight vocal harmonies and intricate bluegrass-infused musicianship, they made history as the first country group to send a debut single to #1 on the Billboard charts.
OVER THEIR DECADES-LONG CAREER, THE BAND HAS CHARTED 33 SINGLES, INCLUDING FOUR ADDITIONAL NO. 1 HITS
PM
PM
CREAMERY PERFORMANCE
CRYSTAL CREAMERY PERFORMANCE SERIES
Recent years have also seen the addition of Carson McKee (fiddle/harmony vocals) and Micah Schweinsberg (drums).
Over their decades-long career, the band has charted 33 singles, including four additional No. 1 hits: “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” “One More Day,” “Beautiful Mess” and “I Believe.”
Twist on Taylor will take the stage on July 14, delivering all the eras, hits and sparkle Swifties love. Ready to enter your Showgirl Era? Fans call Twist on Taylor, led by Sarah Jessica Rhodes, “the next best thing” when it comes to a Swift-themed concert. With jaw-dropping replica costume changes, this live music experience includes a
troupe of top-notch Las Vegas artists, dedicated to a genuine Taylor experience. Hear all the hits, as well as some of your favorite deep cuts from all of the eras. Whether you are a dedicated “Swiftie” or simply a music-lover, you are sure to be entertained by this feel-good, high-energy performance. So, grab a friendship bracelet, your bestie, and your favorite Erasthemed look, and “Shake It Off” with Twist on Taylor.
Electronic music duo 3OH!3 will be at the Fair on July 15. 3OH!3 is from Boulder, Colorado and consists of Sean Foreman and Nathaniel Motte. They are best known for their single “Don’t Trust Me,” which was the lead single from their second album “Want” as well as their breakthrough hit, reaching number seven on the Billboard Hot 100.
Grammy award-winning singer/songwriter Ashanti will take the stage on July 16. Ashanti burst onto the music scene with her smash hit, selftitled debut album “Ashanti.” The album landed the #1 spot on both the Billboard Top 200 and R&B album charts, selling a whopping 504,593 units in its first week and set a SoundScan record as the most albums sold by any debut female artist in
Diamond Rio
FoodMaxx Arena:
Modelo Variety Free Stage:
Michelob Ultra Center Stage:
WEDNESDAY, JULY 15 WEDNESDAY, JULY 15
FoodMaxx Arena:
Modelo Variety Free Stage:
Michelob Ultra Center Stage:
Ashanti received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 7, 2022.
the chart’s history, granting her a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records, which she still holds today. Ashanti has released six studio albums and received eight Billboard Awards, a Grammy, two American Music Awards, two Soul Train Awards, six ASCAP Awards and many more awards and illustrious honors. Ashanti has continued to reign at the top as one of Billboard’s “Top Females of the Decade from 2000-2010” and continues to break Billboard records as having a Hot 100 entry in the 2000s, 2010s and 2020s.
Stanley’s Art Studio: Makers Workshop - Slime!.......................5:30 PM
Linhares Dairy Ring:
Small Animal Dress Up Contest............8:00 AM
Market Sheep Show..................................8:00 AM
Ridge Hill Maple Products Kids Zone Livestock/Animals Shows + Judging Exhibits, Demonstrations, + Contests
Exhibits
Captain Jack Spareribs..........6:30, 7:45, 9:45 PM
Kids Stage:
Thurman Pavilion: Market Swine Showmanship..................7:00 AM
Grand Drive..................................................8:00 PM Market Sheep, Market Goat, and Market Swine
Sign Ups: 5:50 PM - 6:00 PM
Ashanti has appeared in multiple TV series and feature films. She executive produced and starred in the musical drama and feature film “STUCK,” released April 2019. She also executive produced the feature film “Mothers and Daughters,” starring Sharon Stone, Susan Sarandon, Mira Sorvino and more.
Floral Art Craft.............................................6:30 PM
Wooden Stamp Ornaments & Coasters. Self-serve. While supplies last.
Texas Roadhouse Stage:
Mayday Parade will bring their iconic sound to the Fair on July 17. The Tallahassee, Florida-formed quintet recently wrapped a career-defining tour marking two decades together, one that saw more than 70,000 fans pack sold-out venues to celebrate their storied catalog. They performed a triumphant main-stage set at the 30th anniversary of the Vans Warped Tour, a full-circle moment for a band that made their name selling self-released CDs in those same sweltering parking lots nearly 20 years ago. Their landmark debut LP, “A Lesson In Romantics,” turned 18, still beloved for its iconic singles like the platinumcertified “Jamie All Over” and gold-certified “Miserable At Best.” And the group released “Sweet,” the first in a selfreleased three-album series that reaffirmed just how vital and creatively energized Mayday Parade still remains.
Texas Roadhouse Rib Rumble................7:00 PM
Currently, Ashanti is the executive producer and stars in “Nelly and Ashanti: We Belong Together” on Peacock, with her husband Nelly.
To celebrate her contributions to music and recording,
Now, on SAD, the second installment in that trilogy, the band – vocalist Derek Sanders, guitarists Alex Garcia and
Brooks Betts, bassist Jeremy Lenzo and drummer Jake Bundrick – continue diving deeper into the emotional nuance that’s defined their most captivating albums, blending aching sentimentality with melodic urgency as only they can. Once again produced by longtime collaborators Zack Odom and Kenneth Mount, “Sad” sees Mayday Parade stripping back some of the tempo that colored “Sweet” in favor of more deliberate grooves, more introspection, and a sharpened focus on mood and space.
Get ready to turn up and hit the dance floor with the iconic duo behind some of hip-hop’s biggest club anthems when the Ying Yang Twins come to the Fair on July 18. Comprised of members D-Roc and Kaine, the Ying Yang Twins debuted in 1996 with the single “Whistle While You Twurk,” which was played on urban and pop radio stations and peaked at #17 on the US R&B/Hip-Hop chart. They grew even more famous when they toured with Juz tha King, Kat Nu and Demo Dil on the tour called King Me. Their full-length debut album, “Thug Walkin’,” came out later that year.
Immediately after discovering fellow Atlanta hip hop artist Lil Jon, A&R Bryan Leach began talks with representative Michael ‘DJ Smurf’ Crooms
FLORIDA-FORMED QUINTET RECENTLY WRAPPED A CAREER-DEFINING
TOUR MARKING TWO DECADES TOGETHER
about signing the Ying Yang Twins to TVT Records. Protracted negotiations meant that a deal was not finalized in time for the label to release their next album, “Alley: The Return of the Ying Yang Twins,” which instead appeared in 2002 on Koch. The album was successful among hip-hop fans in the southern United States. The same year, the group appeared on the double platinum selling album “Kings of Crunk” by Lil Jon & the Eastside Boyz on the single “Get Low,” and the song was a huge club and radio hit. As Crooms had negotiated only a one-album deal with Koch, the duo was free to finally submit to the advances of TVT, who had impressed them with their recent work with Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz. Their first album for TVT, “Me & My Brother,” was certified platinum on April 12, 2005, and yielded three more hits — “Whats Happnin!,” “Naggin’” and the popular Lil Jon collaboration “Salt Shaker.” The
THURSDAY, JULY 16 THURSDAY, JULY 16
Up and Get Crunk)” is now a standard in many NFL football stadiums, and is considered to be the unofficial anthem of the New Orleans Saints during their Super Bowl victory season, even though it has been a staple at Saints games since 2006. This song was performed live during the victory parade.
FoodMaxx Arena: Michelob Ultra Center Stage: Modelo Variety Free Stage: FoodMaxx Arena: Michelob Ultra Center Stage:
Ashanti...........................................................8:30 PM BLACK OAK CASINO RESORT CONCERT SERIES | SPONSORED BY: THOMPSON CHEVROLET
The song has also been used in “NFL Street 2” and “Madden NFL 11” as well as the Opening Tip at home games for the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs throughout the majority of the 2000s.
Modelo Variety Free Stage:
Greg Scudder & the Honky Tonk Heroes...5 PM
same year the duo appeared on Britney Spears’ album “In the Zone” singing the song “I Got That (Boom Boom)” and her television special of the same name. In 2004, TVT released “My Brother & Me,” an album composed largely of remixes which featured a bonus DVD of the group’s videos.
Ridge Hill Maple Products Kids Zone
DJ Oh Mars..................................................10:00 PM
Oh Mars....................................................10:00 PM FRIDAY, JULY 17 FRIDAY, JULY 17
Today, the Ying Yang Twins continue to tour entertaining sold out audiences across the world.
Art Studio: Makers WorkshopPony Bead Keychains...........................6:45 PM
Livestock/Animals Shows + Judging
Associated Feed Livestock & Exhibits Complex
Market Poultry & Turkey..........................8:00 AM
Linhares Dairy Ring:
Associated Feed Livestock & Exhibits Complex
Large Animal Master Showmanship......4:00 PM
Market Poultry Showmanship...............9:00 AM
Breeding Beef Show & Showmanship...8:00 AM
Grade Dairy Show .....................................2:00 PM
Thurman Pavilion:
The group’s fifth album “Chemically Imbalanced” was released in November 2006. For this album the Twins collaborated with producers Wyclef Jean and Keith Duplessis in addition to Mr. Collipark, who produced a majority of the songs on the group’s previous album. The first two singles were the Hall & Oates-sampling “Dangerous,” featuring Wyclef Jean, and “Jigglin.’” In 2008, the Twins released the mixtape “The Official Work” and a promo single titled “Drop.” In 2009, the Twins released their album with Deep Records, “Ying Yang Forever,” and started a tour titled “Ying Yang Forever Tour.”
Banda Carnaval will finish the Fair’s 2026 Variety Free Stage entertainment lineup on July 19. Banda Carnaval is a Mexican Latin Grammynominated banda from Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico. The group was named after “El Carnaval de Mazatlán” which is the biggest event that takes place every year in their hometown of Mazatlán. It was formed by Jesús Tirado Castañeda in 2001. Banda Carnaval proudly lives up to the meaning of its name. That is why, every time they take the stage, audiences experience a true carnival through every note, united by the rhythm of Sinaloan music.
Lads & Ladies Lead Show........................3:00 PM
Sheep Fitting & Showing Contest........5:00 PM
Exhibits, Demonstrations, + Contests
Ying Yang Twins
Summer Watering Schedule
Even Addresses:
TUESDAYS & SATURDAYS
Odd Addresses:
WEDNESDAYS &
SUNDAYS
watering between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM
STANCOFAIR ROCK HUNT
The Stanislaus County Fair is hosting a rock hunt this year and winners will receive free admission tickets.
Here’s how it works:
- Two painted rocks have been hidden in each of these nine towns: Modesto, Turlock, Ceres, Oakdale, Patterson, Riverbank, Waterford, Hughson and Newman.
- Swipe through the Fair’s daily social media posts to find pictures of the hidden rocks.
- Head out rock hunting in your town. If you find one of the Fair’s rocks, take a picture of the rock and DM it to the Fair with the location/ town as soon as possible.
- Rocks must be brought into the Fair’s front office before the end of Fair on July 19.
- Each winner will receive four Fair General Admission tickets.
- Rocks will be marked as “found” on the Fair’s story each time they are notified that a rock has been found.
Don’t break the bank with your visit to the Stanislaus County Fair. Below are a few ways to save money while still having fun at the Fair.
$5 Fair Bites
Get a bite-sized taste of the Fair with $5 Fair Bites, available daily from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Participating concessionaires will feature a smallersized version of one of their fan-favorite items for only $5. Look for $5 Fair Bites signs
at participating food and beverage stands.
Free ‘Til 3 Sundays
There is free admission to the Fair from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on July 12 and 19.
Kids Free Night
There is free admission for kids ages 12 and under on July 14.
Seniors Free Day
Guests to the Fair who are 65 years or older will be admitted free on July 11. Seniors can also enjoy a free ride on the Ferris Wheel, sponsored by Butler Amusements.
$5 Before 5
All admission tickets are $5 each for guests entering the fairgrounds between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays.
Free Ride Tickets
Guests who bring one or more new toys to donate will receive two carnival ride tickets from Butler Amusements.
Discounted Tickets
Purchase discounted Fair tickets at local FoodMaxx and Save Mart stores.
SATURDAY, JULY 18 SATURDAY, JULY 18
PM Mark C. & the Talking Rock Band........12:00 PM
A family run business since 1948, located in California’s Central Valley, our philosophy is to give our customers the finest quality products by controlling every aspect of production, from the Orchard to the Marketplace - from the ground up.
We specialize in gourmet almond products and beautiful gift baskets perfect for anyone, especially those fair time buyers!
EVEN MORE LIVE MUSIC AT THIS YEAR'S FAIR
The Michelob Ultra Center Stage Performance Series, sponsored by Crystal Creamery, features free live concerts nightly with paid fair admission.
July 10
The Mixtape — The Mixtape is a Rock cover band based in Modesto. Setlists are filled with hits from the 90s and 2000s era, including Incubus, RHCP, Linkin Park, Alice In Chains and more.
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre openformat DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
July 11
Art Day — This exciting new showcase invites performers of all ages to step into the spotlight and share their talents with the community. Whether they sing, dance, act, play an instrument, perform spoken word, or bring another unique talent to the stage, the Fair will celebrate creativity in all its forms. The Performing Arts Showcase is designed to be a fun, supportive, and encouraging environment where participants can shine, gain experience, and connect with fellow artists.
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre openformat DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
July 12
Holy Ground Ministries — The Holy Ground Ministry Worship Team will perform at the Fair. Grupo HM — This regional Latin music band is known for their energetic live shows, often sharing festival lineups with other popular traditional Mexican bands.
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre open-format DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
July 13
Sweet Mama Rachel and The Homemade Jam Band — This local band performs classic rock and folksy blues-style music.
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre open-format DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
July 14
Tongue & Groove — Tongue and Groove offers an eclectic selection of classic rock tunes a few old school country tunes.
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre open-format DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
The Mixtape
Mark C
July 15
Red Dog Ash — Red Dog Ash is an award-winning bluegrass band from the Central Valley. Now in its 12th year, Red Dog Ash plays with an easy familiarity, confidence, and a sound all its own. It is, as Country Chart puts it, “a surprisingly fresh and exciting bluegrass band.”
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre open-format DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
July 16
Greg Scudder — Greg Scudder is from Ceres and was the winner of the Stanislaus County Fair’s very first American Idol contest. He also competed in the 29th annual Texaco Country Showdown in 2012. Greg’s passion for country music and upbeat performances always gets the crowd moving and wanting more.
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre open-format DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
July 17
Makin’ Noise — This group of friends just love playing music in the Turlock/Modesto area and are popular performers at local bars, events and restaurants.
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre open-format DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
July 18
Mark C and The Talkin’ Rock Band —This variety band from Manteca performs covers and a few original classic rock songs.
FM Silverado — This local cover band plays classic rock and country.
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre open-format DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
July 19
Valley Music Institute — Valley Music Institute is a renowned music school located in Modesto. Founded in 2009 by guitarist and music educator Darin Morris, VMI has been dedicated to nurturing musicians of all ages and skill levels. The institute specializes in grouping individuals into bands based on compatibility, providing them with professional studio rehearsals, and offering opportunities to perform live gigs at prestigious venues.
DJ Oh Mars — This multi-genre open-format DJ and music producer is based in the Central Valley.
Makin’ Noise
Greg Scudder
KIDS ZONE FEATURE ENTERTAINERS
Swan Bros Circus
The Swan Bros. Circus is not your average circus. You won’t find any elephants or tigers but you will find slapstick comedy, clowns, and fantastic juggling. The self-described zany duo, Andy and Mike Swan, have been performing together for over 35 years.
It all began when their oldest brother, George, taught Andy how to juggle back in 1966. At first Andy said he would visit the circuses just to see the jugglers, once he saw what else the circus had to offer, he fell in love.
After high school he went off to join the circus, the DeWayne Bros. Circus in Oregon to be exact. During his year with them he learned just about
everything there was to learn about circus life.
In 1973 Andy approached his brother Mike with the idea of starting their own circus. Mike thought it was a great idea and they performed their first show in Wichita Falls, Texas, for a small group of 12 children. From there they went on to perform at fairs and festivals all over California, becoming what they call themselves: “The biggest two-man circus in the world.” They perform shows throughout the year.
Captain Jack Spareribs
Jack, AKA Ace Miles, has been performing magic professionally since
1976. His career began with performances for corporate parties and picnics in the Silicon Valley. This quickly expanded to include school, church and library shows as well as adding juggling to his list of talents.
In 1978, Ace made his first television appearance on “Evening Magazine” while working as the resident magician at the Great America Theme Park in California. Several summer seasons performing both strolling and on stage at the amusement park eventually led to Ace producing, directing and performing his own themed stage shows for Paramount’s Great America in the late 90s. One being the Indiana Jones spoof “Adventure Ace
Swan Bros Circus
and the Test of Doom!”
In the early 80s Ace started studying ventriloquism and soon created the character Dudley the Talking Rabbit. Ace quickly became an expert ventriloquist and Dudley went on to become a huge hit in all of Ace’s shows. The highlight of the ventriloquism act is an original bit of business called “the Voice Switch.” Now that Ace is a pirate, the rabbit has been transformed into a monkey.
Over the years Ace has been seen in numerous television spots and commercials for companies like Toyota and appearances on the Disney Channel, Mornings on 2 and the A&E network’s “Good Time Cafe with Ellen DeGeneres.”
Some of Ace’s strangest skills involve lying on a bed of nails, eating fire, swallowing swords and razor blades, unicycle riding, stilt and rope walking and escaping from straightjackets.
Zany Zoe’s Magic Show
Born Katia, Zany Zoe is a dynamic performer with a deep passion for the arts. Inspired by her mother and her award-winning magician grandfather, Humberto, she developed a lifelong love for magic. Hailing from Nicaragua, her grandfather performed incredible illusions, including his famous table levitation, which left Zany Zoe in awe. From that moment, she was determined to continue his magical legacy.
Through books, research, and practice, Zany Zoe honed her craft, becoming the captivating magician she is today. She now shares her knowledge with the next generation, teaching her 7-year-old niece the art of sleight of hand, misdirection and the magic that runs in their family.
In 2020, Zany Zoe embraced the virtual world, adapting her magic for online platforms amidst the global pandemic. She self-educated on virtual performances, allowing her to connect with audiences around the globe. Her prerecorded and
live shows have since captivated families worldwide, blending magic and technology in an innovative and engaging way.
Zany Zoe’s mission is simple: to make people laugh, forget their worries, and enjoy quality family time through her magic. In her performances, she floats and dances with a table, produces silver coins, appears a snake and spreads joy with her humor and illusions. As Zany Zoe puts it, “When my show is over and I’ve succeeded in bringing happiness to others, I’ve done my dream job.”
Cruzin’ Critters
Cruzin’ Critters is a nonprofit animal education organization that travels throughout the Central Valley of California providing animals and presenters for any event.
Cruzin’ Critters presentations are not only educational, but they are amazingly interactive. They involve 10-12 exotic animals.
The kids of all ages, adults too, are encouraged to get involved in handling, touching, experiencing, and learning all about the animals throughout the presentation.
Cruzin’ Critters provides homes for injured, displaced, non-releasable, unwanted and geriatric animals. These animals have become ambassadors to help us educate you about the marvels of the animal kingdom.
Zany Zoe
Captain Jack Spareribs
SUPPORT LOCAL LIVESTOCK EXHIBITORS
The Stanislaus County Fair Junior Livestock Auction brings the community together to support local youth in 4-H, FFA and Grange members. Each purchase, resale or add-on contribution rewards the hard work of exhibitors and helps invest in the future of agriculture.
2026 Auction Schedule:
• 58th Replacement Heifer Sale, 7 p.m. July 10
• 62nd Market Beef Sale, 7 p.m. July 17
• 62nd Junior Livestock Auctions (market goats, market poultry, market rabbits, market sheep and market swine), 8 a.m. July 18
Support a local exhibitor and be part of one of the Fair’s proudest traditions by becoming a buyer. Whether you are purchasing an animal, reselling, or adding money to an exhibitor’s project, your support makes a lasting impact.
Register at: bit.ly/4wb7RNI
SUPPORT A LOCAL EXHIBITOR AND BE PART OF ONE OF THE FAIR'S PROUDEST TRADITIONS BY BECOMING A BUYER.
INVESTING IN
Infrastructure
TID regularly audits capacity needs throughout our service territory to ensure we can deliver power to meet demand. Investments in updating and replacing equipment at impacted substations secures TID’s transmission and distribution system.
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THE TURLOCK MELON CARNIVAL
FROM THE STANISLAUS COUNTY FAIR TO 1910
In 1911, residents of Turlock got together for the first ever Melon Carnival sponsored by the Turlock Chamber of Commerce. The Turlock Melon Carnival was an effort to promote and market the local melon industry and shipping business.
The Melon Carnival lasted only a few years, and in 1924 the American Legion Rex Ish Post 88 organized a 4th of July celebration for largely the same purpose. In 1925, the American Legion resurrected the name “Turlock Melon Carnival” for the midsummer festival.
The 4-H and FFA livestock shows were instituted in 1933, and in 1935 the State of California issued a charter that established the 38th District Agriculture Association, which remains today. The “fair” was run jointly by the American Legion post and the agricultural district until 1944 when the American Legion sold the site and buildings to the DAA, which has had the sole responsibility for its operation ever since.
No fairs were held during World War II, although the carnivals and horse pulling events continued in the downtown area. The fair was used as a Relocation Center for Japanese Americans in 1942, and a Rehabilitation
Center for the U.S. Army Ninth Service Command from 1943 to 1946. The fair resumed operation after the war, and in 1956 the name “Stanislaus County Fair” was used for the first time on the marquee. In 1960, the fairgrounds became the original home of California State University, Stanislaus.
From a summer weekend in 1911 to a 10-day run, the Stanislaus County Fair has been a source of fun, entertainment and education for persons of all ages.
A record 261,089 persons attended the 1989 Fair.
On March 15, 1999, the Stanislaus County Fair Board of Directors of the 38th District Agricultural Association, 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. A marker was unveiled during an opening night ceremony during the 1999 Fair and is on public view just inside the historic Arch Gate.
In 2008, the Melon Carnival was revived for Turlock’s centennial celebration. The event, which drew in five to seven thousand attendees, featured many activities from the original festival including the Kiddie Kaper Parade and Melon Carnival Queen Contest. Longtime resident and active Turlock senior Audrey Thorsen took the crown and was named queen amid thunderous applause.
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Asian Tiger Mosquito
Yellow Fever Mosquito
BLAST FROMTHE PAST
Neil Durrer of Wood Colony 4-H, with the help of Rebiero, takes care of his Holstein at the 2025 Fair
CHRISTOPHER CORREA / The Journal
Allie Yamamoto, along with her sons Roman (3) and Luca (2) of Hughson, cheer on their dad as he participates in the Demolition Derby at the 2023 Stanislaus County Fair
CANDY PADILLA/The Journal
Gianna Rebiero gets major air on the Spider Jump during the 2015 Fair
CANDY PADILLA / The Journal
Mike Munch of Modesto proposes to his girlfriend, Lorene Novoa, in front of hundreds of people at the 2012 Fair
JONATHAN MCCORKELL / The Journal
Turlock High graduate Allison Nunes poses with Sky the cow at the 2019 Fair
Bailey Pittman, Abby Martinez, Emma Webster, Alyssa Petari and friends enjoyed short ride lines thanks to the heat during the opening night of the 2017 Fair
ANGELINA MARTIN / The Journal
ANGELINA MARTIN / The Journal.
FREE BUS RIDES TO THE FAIR
Getting to the Stanislaus County Fair — and all around the region — this July will be easier and more affordable than ever.
Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority (StanRTA), Turlock Transit, and “The Bus” in Merced County are partnering once again to offer Free Fares July, the annual program that provides riders with unlimited fare-free transportation throughout July.
From July 1 through July 31, passengers can ride all fixed-route services operated by the three transit agencies at no cost, along with all demand-response services in Stanislaus County and micro transit services in Merced County. With fares waived for the entire month, riders can take advantage of public transportation for everything from everyday errands to regional travel, making it easier and more affordable to get where they need to go.
“Free Fares July is an opportunity for residents to experience the benefits of public transportation without worrying about the skyrocketing cost of gasoline,” said Adam Barth, CEO of StanRTA. “We are proud to partner with our neighboring partner
transit agencies to help connect our communities while providing a costsaving transportation option during the busy summer season.”
The promotion encourages both current riders and first-time passengers to discover how public transportation can help reduce transportation expenses, avoid rising fuel costs, and support a cleaner environment.
“Our goal is to increase public transit use and improve air quality while at the same time reducing traffic congestion and harmful emissions,” said Wayne York, Transit Manager for Turlock Transit. “We look forward to providing free trips to regional areas of interest, including the Stanislaus County Fair.”
“Regional mobility is strengthened with strong partnerships. By joining forces to provide free bus service throughout July, we are expanding access for residents to conveniently travel across Merced and Stanislaus counties,” said Serenity Anderson, Transit Director for the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County. “Whether commuting to work, attending appointments, accessing
essential services, or visiting friends, riders will benefit from a more connected transit network and easier access to the places that matter most.”
Riders are encouraged to visit each agency’s website for route maps, schedules, service information, and trip-planning resources.
The Bus (Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County): www.mercedthebus.com
Free Fares July applies to all services in Stanislaus county.
In Merced County, fixed-route and micro transit (The Micro Bus) services are both free in July.
Passengers who already ride for free through the Measure V fare subsidy program for seniors, veterans and ADA-eligible should continue to show their respective IDs to ride during the month. Additionally, UC Merced and Merced College students should also continue to show their current student ID cards to take advantage of the free service.
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