San Joaquin County Fair

About me:

The San Joaquin Fair first began in 1860 as a local fair dedicated “...to encourage and develop agriculture, economy, stock raising, and the speed of horses.”

Over the past 149 years, the focus of the Fair has changed with the times and the community. Our current mission statement reflects those changes: To provide the community a safe, economically-viable, year-round recreational facility, as well as educating, marketing, and showcasing agriculture, industrial, and multicultural assets that reflect community interests of San Joaquin County.

From 1922 until 1988, the San Joaquin County Fair was held in the month of August. To accommodate a realignment of horse racing venues, the Fair moved to June in 1988.

Stockton was the first horse racing track to hold legalized parimutuel wagering in California in 1933. This year’s thoroughbred horse racing dates are June 18-21 and June 24-28, for a total of 9 days of racing.

In 1985, year-round horse racing and wagering via satellite came to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds when Winners Gaming and Sports Emporium was opened.

Today’s San Joaquin County Fair offers the community the opportunity to enjoy safe, clean fun entertainment at reasonable prices. From top name entertainment on the Main Stage to live horse racing in the grandstand, from the carnival rides and on-grounds entertainment, there’s something for everyone at the San Joaquin County Fair.

The San Joaquin County Fair differs from other fairs and festivals by providing a youth livestock program that encourages participation from 4-H, FFA, and Grange. This youth livestock experience is a training ground for individual growth and development and promotes the concept of community involvement.

In addition to the annual Fair and horse racing, the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds has facilities for lease for a variety of events. From dances and parties, to meetings, trade shows, livestock shows, flea markets, the San Joaquin County Fair provides a valuable resource for community use.