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History of the San Diego County Fair
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — As the gates open once again at the San Diego County Fair, thousands of fairgoers may not realize they're stepping into more than just summer fun — they're taking part in a legacy that dates back to 1880.
What began as a small agricultural fair where local farmers competed for the best citrus fruit, pies and fastest horses has evolved into one of the largest county fairs in the nation. For more than 140 years, the San Diego County Fair has been a celebration of community, culture and California agriculture.
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The very first fair brought San Diego's rural communities together to showcase farming innovations and homegrown talent. Initially held in rotating locations such as National City and Balboa Park, the fair found its permanent home at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in 1936 — where it continues to thrive today.
The only interruptions in its long-running history came during World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic, when public safety and national priorities took precedence. But each time, the fair returned with renewed energy, embracing its roots while adding new traditions.
The San Diego County Fair and Del Mar Fairgrounds are managed by the 22nd District Agricultural Association, a self-supporting agency formed by the State of California in 1891. A nine-member board of directors, appointed by the governor, governs the district and sets policies, including the annual fair theme which helps shape the exhibits and experiences.
Each year, the fair spotlights a new theme, a tradition that began in 1980 during its centennial celebration. While early themes focused on agriculture, later editions explored broader topics, including California's Sesquicentennial in 1998 and various pop culture, science and art-inspired concepts in recent years.
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Over its long history, the fair has also gone through a few name changes. From 1880 to 1953, it was known simply as the San Diego County Fair. In the mid-20th century, it took on the name Southern California Exposition, later becoming the Del Mar Fair from 1983 to 2001. Since 2002, it proudly reclaimed its original name — a nod to its county-wide roots.
Today, the San Diego County Fair is much more than a midway and funnel cakes. It's a reflection of the region's agricultural heritage, creative spirit, and evolving community. Whether it's the 'Farm 2 U' exhibit connecting visitors to local growers or the historical displays honoring more than a century of tradition, the fair remains a vital part of San Diego's story.
As this year's fair gets underway, one thing is certain: the spirit of 1880 lives on — in every bite of pie, every blooming flower, and every memory made.
For more on the fair's history, visit the event's website.
Have fun at the fair, San Diego.
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