With a theme of “Sea You at the Fair,” this year’s Nevada County Fair is happening August 9 – 13 at the tree-covered Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley. The Nevada County Fair features five days of fun for Fair-goers of all ages, and is the perfect opportunity to listen to ongoing musical entertainment, eat delicious food, enjoy carnival rides and games, visit barns full of animals, and see thousands of exhibits – all in a community-friendly environment.
New this year is the Stingray Encounter, where Fair-goers can view, touch and learn about stingrays; the Beachcomber Area, which features a giant sandbox; a Bubble Gum Blow Off and a Frozen T-Shirt Challenge in the Special Events Tent; several robotics displays; and Michael Mesmer’s “Strange Magic,” featuring optical illusions and magic. Check out the livestock obstacle courses, the hay bucking contest, horse and stock dog demonstrations, and the small animal costume contests.
In the arena, Wednesday and Thursday night is the Flying U Extreme Rodeo; Friday and Saturday night features Tuff Trucks and Monster Trucks; and Sunday night is the popular Destruction Derby. All arena events begin at 7 pm.
Enjoy ongoing, musical entertainment at one of the two outdoor stages featuring more than 25 musicians and bands during the Fair. Enjoy rock and roll, traditional country, reggae, classic rock, Chicago blues, and West Coast blues. Or, check out the tribute bands – The Rhythm Vandals (Santana Tribute) and Starpeople (a tribute to the Rolling Stones).
Enter one of the special contests for adults and kids held daily in the Special Events tent. There’s a Bubble Gum Blow Off, a Frozen Shirt Challenge, Jell-O Eating Contest, Duct Tape Art Challenge, Live Art Battle, “Minute to Win It” fun, squash mobile races, and nightly karaoke. No pre-registration required – just show up and have fun.
A visit to the Fair wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Treat Street. It is here that you’ll find an array of delicious foods and drinks – pasties, tacos, corn on the cob, beer, pulled pork sandwiches, baked potatoes, nachos, hamburgers, corn dogs, caramel corn, and more. When you eat on Treat Street, you are supporting local nonprofit organizations.
Tickets are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit here or you can purchase your tickets at the gate.
The Nevada County Fairgrounds is located at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley. For a list of daily activities, event details, tickets, or general information, visit here or call (530) 273-6217.