Nevada County Fairgrounds

2012 Events at the Nevada County Fairgrounds

2012-01-18T20:11:00.000-08:00

Please join us for the many fun events planned in 2012 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.

Nevada County Fair:
August 8 - 12, 2012

Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair:
September 20 - 23, 2012

Halloween Events at the Fairgrounds:
October 27, 2012

Country Christmas Faire:
November 23 - 25, 2012

Details for these events are listed at www.NevadaCountyFair.com, or you can check out the Events Calendar on the site for a complete list of all the events that take place at the Fairgrounds.

The Nevada County Fairgrounds are located on McCourtney Road in beautiful Grass Valley. Our phone number is (530) 273-6217. See you at the Fairgrounds!

Fun at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in 2011

2011-01-31T13:21:00.000-08:00

Please join us for the many fun events planned in 2011 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.

Nevada County Fair: August 10 - 14, 2011

Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair: September 22 - 25, 2011

Halloween at the Fairgrounds: October 29, 2011

Country Christmas Faire: November 25 - 27, 2011

Details for these events are listed on our website at www.NevadaCountyFair.com, or you can check out the Events Calendar on the site for a complete list of all the events that take place at the Fairgrounds.

The Nevada County Fairgrounds are located on McCourtney Road in beautiful Grass Valley. Our phone number is (530) 273-6217. See you at the Fairgrounds!

Winner of Fair Artwork Design Contest Announced

2011-01-30T23:17:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Sandy Gold of Grass Valley for submitting the winning artwork for the 2011 Fair artwork design contest. Sandy’s design does an excellent job of representing the Nevada County Fair and this year's Fair theme of "Gold! Rush to the Fair.”

Sandy’s design was chosen from more than 20 entries submitted by community members. Her artwork will be used on various Fair promotional pieces, including print ads, t-shirts, buttons, banners, posters, flyers, and handbooks.

Lucy Galbraith of Grass Valley submitted the winning slogan, “Gold. Rush to the Fair,” for the 2011 Fair.

This year’s Nevada County Fair is August 10 – 14, 2011. For more information, visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Win $250 in Artwork Design Contest

2010-11-29T22:57:00.000-08:00

Submit the winning artwork for the 2011 Nevada County Fair and you could win

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is sponsoring a contest to find the best artwork to illustrate the 2011 Nevada County Fair theme – “Gold! Rush to the Fair.” If you’re a talented artist, and you’d like $250, then this is the contest to enter!

The contest, which is open to Nevada County residents only, takes place now through Friday, January 14. If you submit the winning artwork, you will win $250 and a 2011 Nevada County Fair package that includes admission tickets, parking and carnival coupons. Additionally, the winning artwork will be used on various Fair promotional pieces, print ads, buttons, t-shirts, banners, posters, and flyers.

Interested artists may use any medium and can submit up to three entries, which must be on 8-1/2 by 11-inch paper. Entries can be delivered to the Fairgrounds Office at 11228 McCourtney Road or mailed to the Fair Office at PO Box 2687, Grass Valley, CA 95945. A complete set of rules can be found on the Fair’s website at www.NevadaCountyFair.com, or by calling the Fair Office at (530) 273-6217.

Lucy Galbraith of Nevada City submitted the winning slogan, “Gold! Rush to the Fair,” for the five day Fair, August 10 – 14, 2011.

Donate A Can of Food, Receive $1 off Sunday's Admission Price to the Country Christmas Faire

2010-11-15T09:17:00.000-08:00

The Nevada County Fairgrounds and HOPE (Helping Other People Eat) in Nevada County are teaming up to help feed those in need in Nevada County.

Bring a can of food (or two or three) to the Country Christmas Faire on Sunday, November 28, and the Fairgrounds will give you a coupon for $1 off general admission to the Christmas Faire on that day. Volunteers from HOPE will collect the cans at the food collection bins at the Fairgrounds from 10 am – 4 pm at Gates 1, 3 and 5, which is also where you’ll receive your coupon.

With the help of HOPE, all food collected at the Fairgrounds on Sunday will be used to help feed those in need in Nevada County. HOPE in Nevada County is a program established through the Grass Valley Elks. Through this program, the Grass Valley Elks partner with the Food Bank of Nevada County to feed those in need, as well as working with the organization on a school snack program. HOPE distributes food once a month to anyone in the county in need of food and emergency food every Monday. Call Lari at (530) 263-4753 to volunteer or donate.

The Country Christmas Faire is happening Thanksgiving weekend, November 26 – 28, at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. Hours are 10 am – 5 pm on Friday and Saturday, and 10 am – 4 pm on Sunday. Cost is $4, and free to children under 12.

HUELL HOWSER FEATURES THE NEVADA COUNTY FAIR

2010-10-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Segment to air on Thursday,
November 4 at 8 pm on KVIE Channel 6

Huell Howser’s segment on the Nevada County Fair will air on Thursday, November 4, at 8 pm on KVIE Channel 6. In addition to the November 4 airing, an encore broadcast will air at 3 pm on Saturday, November 6. The show is part of Howser’s new PBS series, California’s Golden Fairs, which will showcase the variety of interesting people and events held at California fairs, as well as focus on the rich history and relevance of all California fairs.

Howser, noted television personality and founder of the PBS program: California’s Gold, spent a day at the Nevada County Fair in August. During his visit, Howser spent time on the Fair’s Treat Street, sampling the various foods and interviewing individuals from the various non-profit organizations represented on Treat Street.

Howser’s new PBS series, California’s Golden Fairs, will be rolled out in the Spring of 2011. However, a “sneak preview” of six episodes, including the episode featuring the Nevada County Fair, are being released early on PBS stations throughout California. All shows aired in this sneak preview will be shown again as a part of the spring 2011 series. The entire series will air at a rate of one per week for 12 weeks. In addition to the 11 featured Fairs, Huell Howser Productions will produce a compilation episode focusing on the rich history of all California fairs.

There are 78 Fairs in California. Howser chose to feature the Nevada County Fair because of its strong community roots, its natural beauty, and its unique Treat Street.

Contests, Costumes and a Cupcake Walks

2010-10-25T10:55:00.001-07:00

The Nevada County Fairgrounds Foundation is hosting a scarecrow contest and a costume contest at its Halloween event on Saturday, October 30, from 2 – 5 pm at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.

If you’re interested in entering the scarecrow contest, your scarecrow should be dropped off at the Main Exhibit Building at the Fairgrounds between 10 am – noon on Saturday, October 30. Winners will be announced at 4 pm. Additionally, a costume parade and contest will take place at 4 pm at the Main Exhibit Building.

There will be games and treats for kids and even a cupcake walk! A live and silent auction will be happening throughout the day. We’ll be serving hamburgers and hot dogs and there will be toe-tapping live entertainment for all to enjoy. Additionally, Empire Carriage Company will provide wagon rides around the Fairgrounds.

Grass Valley Rotary Club’s annual community “Ball Drop” will take place at 5 pm. For only $5/ticket, you get the chance to win $1,000! Rotary will be selling tickets at the entrance to the Halloween event and also at the Ball Drop area.

This family-friendly Halloween event is hosted by the Nevada County Fairgrounds Foundation, in partnership with the Nevada County Ag Youth Boosters and Grass Valley Rotary Club. All three organizations have come together to support improvement projects for our community Fairgrounds, as well as to support youth programs in Nevada County. This event is sponsored by Extreme Roofing.

It’s all happening, rain or shine, on Saturday, October 30 from 2 – 5 pm at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. The cost is only $5 per person and includes food, treats, games and entertainment! Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, at the Grass Valley and Combie Road Citizen’s Bank branches, or at The Book Seller in Grass Valley. Tickets can also be purchased on the day of the event at the Fairgrounds.

Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for information or call (530) 273-6217.

HALLOWEEN FUN AT THE NEVADA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

2010-10-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

Event Planned for Saturday, October 30, from 2 – 5 pm

Bring your family and friends to the Nevada County Fairgrounds for some Halloween fun on Saturday, October 30, from 2 – 5 pm. Rain or shine, in costume or in street clothes, we have fall festivities and activities for all to enjoy.

Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served, and “Running for Cover” will provide live musical entertainment. There will be treats for the kids, a live and silent auction, a cupcake walk, and lots of games. Plus, you don’t want to miss the costume and scarecrow contests and a chance to win some great prizes!

This family-friendly Halloween event is hosted by the Nevada County Fairgrounds Foundation, in partnership with the Nevada County Ag Youth Boosters and Grass Valley Rotary Club. All three organizations have come together to support improvement projects for our community Fairgrounds, as well as to support youth programs in Nevada County.

Nevada County Ag Youth Boosters, which supports youth in agriculture, will provide games at the event, as well as host a silent auction. Grass Valley Rotary Club will be hosting its annual community “Ball Drop,” which raises funds for local youth and senior organizations. For only $5/ticket, you get the chance to win $1,000! For tickets for the “ball drop,” contact any Grass Valley Rotary Club member or call/e-mail Larry at (530) 271-5544 or fallerl@aol.com.

The cost for the Halloween event at the Fairgrounds is only $5 per person and includes food, treats, games, and entertainment! Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, at the Grass Valley and Combie Road Citizen’s Bank branches, or at The Book Seller in Grass Valley. Tickets can also be purchased on the day of the event at the Fairgrounds.

Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for information or call (530) 273-6217.

Contest for the 2011 Nevada County Fair Theme

2010-10-11T10:16:00.001-07:00

Submit the winning theme and win $100 and a prize package to the 2011 Nevada County Fair

Gold will be the featured item of the 2011 Nevada County Fair and the Fairgrounds is hosting a contest to find the winning “Golden” theme for the 2011 Fair. Do you have a catchy or fun theme that you think would be perfect for the 2011 Nevada County Fair?

Visit the Fair’s website at www.NevadaCountyFair.com and submit a theme that includes reference to gold and the Fair. If the theme you submit is selected, you win. The winner will receive $100, as well as a 2011 Nevada County Fair package that includes two free admission tickets for each day of the Fair, a 5-day parking pass for the Fair, and ride coupons.

The contest is open to Nevada County residents only. Submissions must be five words or less and no trade-marked themes will be considered. The contest runs now through November 5, 2010. For those without access to the Internet, entry forms are available at the Nevada County Fairgrounds office, or information can be mailed to the Fairgrounds at P.O. Box 2687, Grass Valley, CA 95945. No phone entries will be accepted.

Once the winning theme is selected, there will be a contest to design artwork to illustrate the theme. Each year, the theme and artwork appear on advertisements, t-shirts, buttons, posters, banners and the Fair’s website to promote the Fair.

The 2011 Nevada County Fair is scheduled for August 10 – 14, 2011. For a complete list of contest rules or information, visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com or call (530) 273-6217.

Halloween Fun at the Fairgrounds

2010-10-04T23:09:00.000-07:00

Join us for some Halloween fun at the Nevada County Fairgrounds!

Saturday, October 30, 2 - 5 pm

Hamburgers and hot dogs!
Pie Auction!
Games and Entertainment!
Costume and Scarecrow Contests!
Cupcake Walk!
Treats for the Kids!
Live Auction!

Only $5 per person. Tickets are on sale at the Fair Office or during the day of the event! Call 273-6217 for information or visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

BARN TOURS OFFERED AT THIS YEAR'S DRAFT HORSE CLASSIC

2010-09-13T10:37:00.000-07:00

Get Behind-the-Scenes and Meet the Stars of the Classic – the Beautiful Draft Horses

Barn Tours will be offered to visitors to this year’s Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair – giving them an up close and personal visit with the magnificent Gentle Giant Draft Horses. The behind-the-scenes Barn Tours, led by Draft Horse Classic commentator and teamster Eleanor Roberts, are another way for visitors to be able to meet and talk with Draft Horse exhibitors, as well as meet the stars of the Classic.

Barn tours will be held on Friday, September 24, at 4 pm and Saturday, September 25, at 2 pm. Advance reservations are recommended, as there are a limited number of openings for each tour. The cost for the tour is $10 per person, and advance reservations can be made by calling the Fair Office at 530-273-6217. If there is still availability, tickets may also be purchased the day of the event at the Arena box office.

Each tour will last approximately 45 minutes and will include meeting the exhibitors and learning about how they got involved with Draft Horses; discussing and seeing the different Draft Horse breeds; a show-and-tell of Draft Horse equipment, and a discussion about the training of Draft Horses and what it takes to put a team together. You’ll also get to roam to the various barns on the Fairgrounds to meet the beautiful Draft Horses!

The 24th annual Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair starts Thursday, September 23 and runs Sunday, September 26 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley. The Draft Horse Classic features six stunning performances in the arena. Additionally, live entertainment at the Pine Tree Stage, a world class art show, Treat Street goodies, vendors with western wear and items, a clogging jamboree, a live horse shoeing competition, and an historic photography exhibit are all part of the Harvest Fair, which takes place at the Fairgrounds during all four days of the Classic.

For tickets to the Draft Horse performances or tickets to the Barn Tours, call the office at 273-6217 or visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for information about the various activities.

Enter Your Exhibits in the Harvest Fair at the Draft Horse Classic

2010-09-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

Entries are now being accepted for the Harvest Fair, which takes place during the Draft Horse Classic, September 23 – 26, at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. The deadline for Nevada County residents to turn in entry forms to enter exhibits is 5 pm on Monday, September 20. It’s free to enter, and all exhibitors will receive complimentary tickets to the Thursday evening performance of the Draft Horse Classic.

Entry forms are now being accepted at the Fair Office and on-line at www.NevadaCountyFair.com. There are more than 100 different categories to choose from, including fruits and vegetables, cobblers, harvest pies, scarecrows, dried flowers, jams, honey, cut flowers, produce characters, and birdhouses. There’s even a garden photo contest. So many fun categories to choose from!
There’s also a special division for youth and teens, which includes categories like apple face dolls, decoupage, Halloween masks, painted pumpkins, poetry, table settings, and wreaths.

Exhibitors must either submit paper entry forms at the Fair office or enter online at www.NevadaCountyFair.com. There is no entry fee for those who enter an exhibit in the Harvest Fair.

Complete descriptions of all Harvest Fair divisions and categories are available online at www.NevadaCountyFair.com, at the Fair’s Office on McCourtney Road, or by calling the Fairgrounds Office at (530) 273-6217.

The Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair runs September 23 – 26 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. There are six performances featuring the magnificent Draft Horses – Thursday and Friday at 6:30 pm, Saturday at 10 am and 6:30 pm, and Sunday at 10 am and 4 pm.

In addition to the Draft Horse performances, the Harvest Fair is bustling with activities during the four-day event. Live entertainment, Art at the Classic, Treat Street goodies, a Dutch oven cook-off, a clogging jamboree, a lumberjack show, a live shoeing competition, special exhibits, and visits to the barns and breed pavilion make for a family fun day at the Harvest Fair.

For Draft Horse performance tickets or information about entering a Harvest Fair exhibit, call the Fair Office at (530) 273-6217 or visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Danny Kemp to be Inducted into the Nevada County Fair Hall of Fame

2010-08-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

Danny Kemp has been named as the 2010 inductee into the Nevada County Fairgrounds’ Hall of Fame. The Fair’s Board of Directors chose Kemp for his significant contributions to the Fair and to the youth of Nevada County.

Kemp recently retired as the Ag Mechanics instructor from Bear River High School, where he had been teaching since 1986. It was his inspiration, and his desire to support the Ag Mechanics students, that created the highly successful Ag Mechanics Auction at the 2004 Fair. Kemp worked tirelessly with the students and the Fair to create a quality exhibit that has grown to fill the Sugar Pine Lodge at the Fairgrounds. Now in its seventh year, the Ag Mechanics Auction has raised more than $240,000 to benefit the students of Nevada County.

“I am thrilled with how the Ag Mechanics Auction has grown since its inception,” said Kemp. “I am proud of the students who make it happen, and I am pleased that it opens another avenue for children to be successful.”

Kemp has always been a great supporter of the Fair. He was a member of the Nevada County Fair’s Board of Directors from 1985 through 1989, and, even today, he continues to be available to provide his assistance to the Fair team. Following each Fair, he makes it a point to meet with management and provide his positive critique and to offer his help in continuing to improve the Fair. He has always been a person that the Fair team relies upon for advice and direction.

“Danny is an individual who has made significant contributions to the Fair,” said Fairgrounds CEO Sandy Woods. “He is a person that we appreciate and admire, and his presence will indeed be missed in the future. It is a well-deserved honor for him to be named to the Fair’s Hall of Fame.”

Kemp, who has lived in Nevada County since 1975, has been a teacher in Nevada County for 34 years. He started his career at Nevada Union High School, and then began teaching at Bear River High School when it opened in 1986. In 2005, he received a Teacher of Excellence award from the California Ag Teachers Association.
Kemp will be formally inducted into the Hall of Fame at opening day ceremonies on Wednesday, August 11. In addition to access to the Fair and its many activities, he will receive a portrait donated by Shaffers Originals.

NEVADA COUNTY FAIR CELEBRATES DAY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

2010-08-04T16:51:00.000-07:00

This year also marks FREED’s 25th anniversary and the 20th anniversary of American Disabilities Act

Join us at the Nevada County Fair on Friday, August 13, for the annual Day for People with Disabilities. This day at the Fair will also celebrate the 20th anniversary of the American Disabilities Act and the 25th anniversary of Nevada County’s FREED Center for Independent Living.

During the Day for People with Disabilities, which happens every year on the Friday of the Fair, those with disabilities are admitted to the Fair at no charge, as is a guest or a chaperone. Additionally, individuals are given free parking, and vendors are brought in to offer products and services that cater to people with disabilities and to those that assist them.

There are several events and activities planned throughout the day. In the Ag-Sperience area, there will be an accessible location for individuals to see and interact with the livestock. In the same area, Master Gardeners will be demonstrating "Accessible Gardening." On the patio of the Northern Mines building, the Gold Country Wood Turners will offer a sit down lathe for those who are wheelchair bound to try their hand at creating wood art.

Mark Wellman, a nationally acclaimed author, filmmaker and motivational speaker, will be at the Fair’s climbing rock wall, where Mobile Rock is donating time for those with disabilities to have a try at climbing. Wellman will then be joining Candace Cable of Turning Point Tahoe on the Budweiser True Music Stage at 2 pm for an inspiring, motivational presentation. Rounding out the evening, local DJ and break dancer, Rico Stephenson, will serve as the DJ at the Fairgrounds’ Dance Pad.

FREED Center for Independent Living, founded by Nevada County resident Sam Dardick, is a non-profit group dedicated to serving people with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990 to prohibit discrimination against disabled people.

The Day for People with Disabilities is presented by Pacific West Pharmacy, Inc. and FREED, The Independent Living Resource Center.

Nevada County Fair and Food Bank of Nevada County Team Up to Feed Those in Need

2010-08-03T00:40:00.000-07:00

Visit the Nevada County Fair and Help your Community at the Same Time

Imagine being able to visit the annual Nevada County Fair at a discount, and be able to help the local Food Bank at the same time? At this year’s Fair, you can! The Nevada County Fairgrounds and The Food Bank of Nevada County are teaming up to help feed those in need.

Bring a can of food (or two or three) to the Fair on Sunday, August 15, and the Fair will give you a coupon for $1 off general admission to the Fair on that day. The Food Bank will have food collection bins available at the Fairgrounds from 10 am – 5 pm at Gates 1, 3 and 5, which is also where you’ll receive your coupon. It’s that simple!

All food collected on that day will be given to The Food Bank of Nevada County, which distributes food to those in need in our county. At last year’s canned food drive, 1,240 pounds of food were collected – enough to feed 550 – 600 families.
It’s the best of both worlds – fun at the Fair, while helping out in the community.

It’s all part of Community Involvement Day, sponsored by YubaNet.com and The Food Bank of Nevada County, on Sunday, August 15, at the Nevada County Fair.

NEVADA COUNTY FAIR TICKETS ON SALE NOW

2010-07-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

Buy early and save!

Tickets for the Nevada County Fair are on sale now. Purchase your admission, carnival ride tickets, and arena event tickets before the Fair begins and save money! This year, you can also save time by purchasing your tickets online.
Buy your admission tickets before August 10 at 5 pm and get admission for only $5. Better yet, purchase a ticket to attend the Fair on Thursday, Kids’ Day, and get a “Be A Kid Again” adult admission ticket for only $3. You can also take advantage of other pre-sale offers before August 10, including a five-day Fair pass with unlimited entry for $25; a season parking pass for $25; a carnival ride bracelet, good for unlimited rides for any one day, for $23; or a carnival ride booklet of 30 coupons for $20. If you purchase any ticket to an arena event, the cost for Fair admission is only $5.

There are several ways to get your tickets early. New this year, the Fairgrounds is offering online ticket sales. Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com and follow the easy steps to purchase admission tickets, parking passes, season passes, arena event tickets and carnival ride coupons. You can also purchase tickets by calling the Fair Office at (530) 273-6217; or visiting the Fair Office on McCourtney Road before August 10 at 5 pm.

After August 10, admission for the Fair is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $3 for children 6-12, and children 5 and under are free.

This year’s Nevada County Fair is August 11 – 15. The Fair’s Office is located on McCourtney Road in Grass Valley. The phone number is (530) 273-6217, the FAX number is (530) 273-1146, and the website is www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Mutton Bustin' and Calf Scramble at the Nevada County Fair

2010-07-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

WANT TO ENTER? READ ON TO FIND OUT HOW!

Two new arena events – Mutton Bustin’ and Calf Scramble – are planned for young children and teens in the Arena on Wednesday and Thursday night of the Nevada County Fair, August 11 - 15.

Featured in the Arena during the Professional Bull riding on Wednesday and the Rodeo on Thursday will be Mutton Bustin’, where eight young cowboys and cowgirls between the ages of 5 and 7 years old will get the chance each evening to mount a trusty sheep and head for the thrill of their young lives. Participants must be between the ages of 5 – 7, and must not weigh more than 65 pounds.

Also featured at the Arena on the same two nights will be the Calf Scramble, where ten teams, each consisting of a boy and girl, will compete with one another to catch, halter and coax a calf across the finish line. Participants must be between the ages of 12 – 18, and must weigh at least 100 pounds.

Western attire is required for both events, and there is no entry fee. Sheep and calves provided to the contestants during each event. Great prizes will be awarded for both events. For the Mutton Bustin’, prizes are $50 for first prize, $25 for second prize, and $10 for third prize. For the Calf Scramble, prizes are $100 for first prize, $50 for second prize, and $25 for third prize. There are a limited number of spots available, so call the Fair Office at (530) 273-6217 to reserve a spot in either event, as well as obtain an application and a list of rules. Applications and rules are also posted under Special Contests at www.NevadaCountyFair.com. These two events are kindly sponsored by PremierWest Bank.

This year’s Fair is August 11 – 15. Each evening of the Fair features a thrilling arena event. Wednesday is Professional Bull Riding; Thursday is the Rodeo; Friday is Tuff Truck Racing and Monster Trucks; Saturday is Free Style Moto X Riders and Monster Trucks; and Sunday is the Demolition Derby. Purchase your arena event tickets before August 10 and get admission to the Fair for only $5. Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for more information.

Sponsor a Car in the Demolition Derby - and You Could Win $1,000 for Your Charity

2010-07-17T00:54:00.001-07:00

Back by popular demand, the Nevada County Fair is providing organizations and businesses the opportunity to sponsor and drive a car in the Fair’s popular Demolition Derby, while at the same time raising money for a favorite charity or service organization.

Organizations and businesses can purchase a car for $500 and the Fair will provide a Derby car to use in the Demolition Derby. The organization can choose to provide its own driver or the Fair will provide a driver for the car. Additionally, the car can be picked up on August 6 to customize the car or it can be left at the Fair, where it will have a number painted on it.

The sponsored Derby cars will participate in their own event at the Demolition Derby, held on Sunday, August 15, at 7 pm in the Arena. The last of the sponsored cars moving will receive $1,000 towards the charity or service organization of their choice. Last year’s winner was Mark Andreus, who received $1,000 for his charity, Christian Encounter Ministries.

There are only a limited number of cars available. Call the Fair Office at
(530) 273-6217 to reserve your car and obtain a list of rules. Forms are also available at www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Enter the Idol Competition at Nevada County Fair

2010-07-12T14:33:00.001-07:00

Do you love to sing? If so, you could win $150, Fair admission tickets, and money for your favorite charity! The Nevada County Fair is looking for talented vocalists to sing in the “Tree-ditional” Idol Competition at this year’s Fair.

Nevada County residents ages 16 and up are invited to participate in this crowd favorite on Wednesday, August 11, at 9 pm on the Pine Tree Stage at the Fairgrounds. The grand prize is $150, two Fair admission tickets, a parking pass and two Saturday night arena tickets. Second place is $75, two admission tickets, a parking pass and two Thursday night arena tickets; and third prize is $25, two admission tickets and a parking pass.

Singers will be judged by a panel of local celebrities, who will narrow it down to three finalists. Audience members will then vote with quarters for the grand prize winner. The quarters will be weighed on stage and the winner will be announced that night. All quarters collected will be donated to the non-profit of the winner’s choice.

Last year’s Idol Competition winner was Katie Heward (see photo), who received $575 for her charity of choice, Sierra Services for the Blind.

Early entry is encouraged, as there is a limit of 20 contestants for this event. The entry fee is only $5, and entries close on Friday, August 6 at 5 pm. All contestants will receive a free admission pass to the Fair on Wednesday.

A complete list of rules and a registration form can be obtained from the Fair’s website at www.NevadaCountyFair.com, by calling the Fair Office at 273-6217, or sending an e-mail to debby@nevadacountyfair.com. The Idol Competition is sponsored by Old Town Café in downtown Grass Valley, and Citizens Bank has graciously donated its time to sell quarters during the show.

Bring your friends, your quarters, and be prepared for a great night of music and entertainment at this year’s Nevada County Fair, August 11 - 15.

Enter Your Exhibits in the Nevada County Fair: There's Still Time!

2010-07-06T19:53:00.001-07:00

Want to enter something in the Nevada County Fair? There’s still time! The deadline for submitting paper entry forms is July 10 at 1 pm. To enter on-line using the Fair’s on-line entry system, the deadline is Friday, July 16 at 5 pm.

There is no entry fee if you enter your still exhibit on-line – just log-on to the Fair’s website at www.NevadaCountyFair.com, and follow the step-by-step process.

Join the thousands of Nevada County residents who enter exhibits each year in the more than 300 available categories. If you can make it, bake it, grow it or show it, we have a category for you! Don’t delay – enter now!

Complete descriptions of all categories are available online in the Fair's Competition Handbook. The handbook is also available at the Fair office, area libraries, chamber of commerce offices, and various sponsoring merchants.

Nevada County Fair Competition Handbook Now Available

2010-06-08T22:47:00.000-07:00

The Nevada County Fair’s Competition Handbook, which includes all the information you need to enter exhibits in this year’s Fair, is now available. If you can make it, bake it, grow it or show it, there is a category for you!

There are hundreds of categories and specialty contests for adults and children. Try entering one of the traditional categories like baking cookies, entering a prized photo, creating a poster, showing something from your garden, or displaying a favorite collection. Or, enter one of the specialty categories like creating a miniature tree house, building a car for the solar-powered sprint car races, creating a produce character, or entering the “ugliest dang cake” contest.

Copies of the free handbook are available at the Chamber of Commerce offices, county libraries, at the Fairgrounds’ Office, or on-line at www.NevadaCountyFair.com. Area schools have also received a flyer with information about contests available to Nevada County youth.

The deadline for submitting paper entry forms is July 10 at 1 pm. The deadline for on-line entries is July 16 at 5 pm. There is no entry fee if you enter your still exhibit on-line.

This year’s Competition Handbook also contains information on discount days at the Fair, details about daily contests at the Fair, arena events, and advanced sale tickets.

Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair: September 23 - 26, 2010

2010-06-06T14:57:00.000-07:00

The 24th annual Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair at the Nevada County Fairgrounds is happening this year beginning Thursday, September 23, and running through Sunday, September 26.

Six performances are planned throughout the event, where owners and their teams will compete for nearly $40,000 in prize money. In addition to the Draft Horse performances, the Fairgrounds are alive with music, Art at the Classic, lumberjack demonstrations, the Western Trade Show, horse shoeing competitions, and a clogging jamboree. Between performances, pick up your favorite goodie on Treat Street, then wander over to the Pine Tree Stage and enjoy the live entertainment. Or, go "backstage" and meet the horses up-close. Although there is a fee for the Draft Horse performances, admission to the Fairgrounds and Harvest Fair activities are free, so stop by anytime during the four-day event.

Take time on Saturday, September 25, to enjoy fine food and drink at “A Taste of the Gold,” which features some of the Gold Country’s finest restaurants, confectioners and wineries. Although Fairgrounds admission is free, tickets for this event must be purchased. Tickets include five food tastings, unlimited wine tasting, and a commemorative wine glass. To purchase tickets online, visit www.nswinecountry.com. For information or to purchase hard copy tickets, call the Grass Valley Downtown Association at (530) 272-8315 or visit www.historicgrassvalley.com.

Tickets are on sale now! Draft Horse Classic advanced tickets for reserved seating are $21 a person ($24 day of the event). General admission seats are first come, first seated, and are $18 in advance ($21 day of the event). RV camping is also available. Beginning on May 1, mail and fax ticket orders will be accepted; beginning June 1, phone and walk-in orders will be accepted. Ticket order forms are available at www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Fairgrounds Seeking Nominations for Nevada County Fair Hall of Fame

2010-06-01T22:44:00.000-07:00

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is seeking nominations for inductees into the Nevada County Fair’s Hall of Fame for 2010, and the community is encouraged to nominate individuals for this honor.

The Fair’s Nominating Committee is looking for individuals who support the Nevada County Fair and community relationships in a way that strengthens the mission and vision of the Fair. This support should be through assisting Nevada County youth during Fair activities; supporting agriculture, performing arts or educational activities; encouraging community participation in using the Fairgrounds as a community event venue; assisting in maintaining the beauty of the Fairgrounds; or any significant activity that helps move the Nevada County Fair toward its mission and vision.

Awards are given to individuals, not groups or organizations, and consideration may be given to individuals who are no longer living if their contributions were significant.

If you’d like to nominate an individual for the Nevada County Fair Hall of Fame, please submit a one page letter by July 7 stating your reasons why you are nominating the individual. Send letters by e-mail to reply@NevadaCountyFair.com or by mail to the Nevada County Fairgrounds at P.O. Box 2687, Grass Valley, CA 95945.

Gentle Giant Journal: Details and Information for the 2010 Draft Horse Classic

2010-05-04T17:07:00.000-07:00

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Draft Horse Classic Tickets on Sale Now

2010-05-04T12:53:00.000-07:00

Majestic Draft Horse performances, breath-taking competitions, and seeing a Draft Horse “up-close” are all part of the festivities at the 24th annual Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair, September 23 – 26, at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley.

Tickets to this event are on-sale now. In order to provide the best possible customer service, we’ve placed ticket orders into time slots – beginning May 1, we'll be accepting mail and FAX orders only. Beginning June 1, we'll be accepting phone orders and walk-ins.

Purchase tickets before Wednesday, September 22, and tickets are $18 for general seating and $21 for reserved seating. After September 22, performance tickets are $21 for general seating and $24 for reserved seating. Tickets can be purchased by calling (530-273-6217), faxing (530-273-1146) or visiting the Fair Office on McCourtney Road.

Fairgrounds Seeking Nominations for Fair Family of the Year

2010-04-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

Do you know a special family that deserves recognition at the 2010 Nevada County Fair? If so, the Nevada County Fairgrounds is seeking nominations for the 2010 Fair Family of the Year. Each year a family is recognized at the Nevada County Fair, and this year the Fairgrounds is asking the community for its help in nominating a family for this special award.

The Fair team is looking for a family who is very involved with the Fair, either through exhibiting or volunteering, and passionate about the Fair. Families chosen in previous years were recognized for their commitment to, and involvement with, the Nevada County Fair and the community.

If you’d like to nominate a family, please submit a one page summary of why you think the family of your choice deserves recognition as the 2010 Fair Family of the Year. The family chosen will be honored at opening ceremonies of the Nevada County Fair, and will also receive daily admission to the Fair, a season parking pass, ride coupons, and a family portrait from Schaffers Originals of Grass Valley.

Submit your nomination no later than June 15, 2010 to reply@NevadaCountyFair.com or mail it to the Nevada County Fairgrounds at P.O. Box 2687, Grass Valley, CA 95945.

Nevada County Fair - August 11 - 15, 2010

2010-03-02T13:18:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendar for the event voted as “Nevada County’s Best” for 10 years in a row – the 2010 Nevada County Fair, August 11 – 15, at “California’s Most Beautiful Fairgrounds,” the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley.

“Rooted in Tree-dition” is this year’s theme and five days of “tree-mendous” fun are planned for Fair-goers of all ages. Live entertainment will be available every day at five different stages throughout the Fairgrounds. There’s also carnival rides and games, barns full of livestock, thousands of community exhibits, special contests, an Idol Competition, nightly arena events, daily demonstrations, magic shows, gold panning, and food contests. As always, Treat Street will be serving an array of delicious food and drinks – corn dogs, pasties, tacos, corn on the cob, beer, tempura zucchini, nachos, hamburgers, funnel cakes and caramel corn – just to name a few!

Long-time crowd pleasing events will soar into the Fair’s arena Wednesday through Sunday, presenting thrills ranging from a rodeo to Monster Trucks to the Demolition Derby.

The Ag Mechanics Auction will be held on Friday of the Fair, and the Junior Livestock Auction will be held on Sunday, August 15. These popular annual events will raise more than $400,000 for Nevada County youth in agriculture.

For those interested in entering competitions and projects for judging, the Fair’s Competition Handbook will be available June 1. At that time, all of the categories, as well as online entry information, will be listed on the Fair’s web site at www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Gates open each day at 10 am, and close each evening at 11 pm. Admission this year will be $8 for adults, $6 for seniors (65 and older), $3 for children 6 to 12, and free to children five years old and younger.

At one of the most affordable fairs in California, take advantage of one of several pre-sale packages available this year, including a special “Be A Kid” price of only $3 for a Thursday adult admission ticket; or a pre-sale Fair admission ticket for $5 for any one day of the Fair. Kids Day will once again be held on Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm and during that time all children 12 years and under are admitted for free. Other pre-sale packages and coupons will be announced in June.

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is located at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley, 50 miles northeast of Sacramento, off Highway 49. For directions, event details or general information, visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com or call the Fair Office at (530) 273-6217. Our blog can be found at www.NevadaCountyFair.blogspot.com, or you can follow us on Facebook or MySpace.

Fairgrounds Receives Numerous Industry Awards

2010-02-17T09:37:00.000-08:00

The Nevada County Fairgrounds received 25 awards at the 47th Annual Western Fairs Association’s (WFA) Achievement Awards held in Reno, Nevada, at the end of last month. The Nevada County Fairgrounds took home first-place honors for the Fair video created by Gold in the Foothills; its 2009 Draft Horse Classic event and several of its promotional pieces; and its “Ugliest Dang Cake” exhibit competition. It also received first place in the Fair featured program, Social Media Madness, for its work in social media.

During this year’s WFA Achievement Awards Program, offered to recognize excellence and to share fair ideas and programs, the Nevada County Fairgrounds competed against more than 50 Fairs with similar attendance numbers within the Western United States and Canada. At the WFA Achievement Awards Ceremony, the Nevada County Fairgrounds collected a total of seven 1st place awards, 11 2nd place, and seven third place. The Fairgrounds also received nine Honorable Mention awards.

Among the many awards received, the Fairgrounds received second place for the Fair’s “Name the Rabbit” contest; third place for its community outreach program with the Fairgrounds’ Job Fair; second place for its overall marketing program; third place for the Fair’s Kids Corner; and second place for its work with nursery schools and pre-schools in decorating theme-related cut-outs.

The Western Fairs Association is a non-profit trade association serving the Fair industry throughout the Western United States and Canada.

To view the winning Fair video, visit www.GoldintheFoothills.com or www.NevadaCountyFair.com. With a theme of “Rooted in Tree-dition,” the 2010 Nevada County Fair is August 11 – 15.

Mark Your Calendar!

2009-12-12T23:09:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendar with these fun events at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in 2010:

Nevada County Fair
August 11 - 16, 2010

Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair
September 23 - 26, 2010

Country Christmas Faire
November 26 - 28, 2010

Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for information!

Win $250 in Logo Design Contest

2009-11-30T21:06:00.000-08:00

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is sponsoring a contest to find the best logo to illustrate the 2010 Nevada County Fair slogan – “Rooted in Tree-dition” – featuring trees, one of our counties top ten agricultural products. If you’re a talented artist, and you’d like $250, then this is the contest to enter!

The contest, which is open to Nevada County residents only, takes place now through Friday, January 15. If you submit the winning design, you will win $250 and a 2010 Nevada County Fair package that includes admission tickets, parking and carnival coupons. Additionally, the winning artwork will be used on various Fair promotional pieces, print ads, buttons, t-shirts, banners, posters, and flyers.

Interested artists may use any medium and can submit up to three entries, which must be on 8-1/2 by 11-inch paper. Entries can be delivered to the Fairgrounds Office at 11228 McCourtney Road or mailed to the Fair Office at PO Box 2687, Grass Valley, CA 95945. A complete set of rules can be found on the Fair’s website at www.NevadaCountyFair.com, or by calling the Fair Office at 530-273-6217.

Hollie Grimaldi Flores of Grass Valley submitted the winning slogan, “Rooted in Tree-dition,” for the five day Fair, August 11 – 15, 2010.

Donate a Can of Food and Receive $1 off Sunday's Admission to the Country Christmas Faire

2009-11-23T11:54:00.000-08:00

The Nevada County Fairgrounds and HOPE (Help Other People Eat) in Nevada County are teaming up to help feed those in need in Nevada County.

Bring a can of food (or two or three) to the Country Christmas Faire on Sunday, November 29, and the Fairgrounds will give you a coupon for $1 off general admission to the Christmas Faire on that day. Volunteers from HOPE will collect the cans at the food collection bins at the Fairgrounds from 10 am – 4 pm at Gates 1, 3 and 5, which is also where you’ll receive your coupon.

With the help of HOPE, all food collected at the Fairgrounds on Sunday will be used to help feed those in need in Nevada County. HOPE in Nevada County is a program established through the Grass Valley Elks. Through this program, the Grass Valley Elks partner with the Food Bank of Nevada County to feed those in need, as well as working with the organization on a school snack program. HOPE distributes food once a month to anyone in the county in need of food.

The Country Christmas Faire is happening Thanksgiving weekend, November 27 – 29, at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. Hours are 10 am – 5 pm on Friday and Saturday, and 10 am – 4 pm on Sunday. Cost is $4, and free to children under 12. Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for more information.

Preparing for the Country Christmas Faire

2009-11-20T17:31:00.000-08:00

Students from Tall Pines Nursery School sing Christmas carols and decorate the tree in Santa's Village at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. The festivities are in preparation for the Country Christmas Faire next weekend at the Fairgrounds. The students made the ornaments, then visited the village to decorate the tree and enjoy some candy canes.

The Country Christmas Faire is November 27 - 29 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for more information.

Free Childcare Provided at Country Christmas Faire

2009-11-17T20:58:00.000-08:00

The Northern Mines Girl Scouts will offer free babysitting services at this year’s Country Christmas Faire, held November 27 – 29 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. This benefit is provided by this youth service organization so that parents can drop off their children while they enjoy holiday shopping. Free babysitting will be provided in the Community Center at the Fairgrounds; hours for babysitting are the same as the Faire – Friday and Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm; and Sunday from 10 am – 4 pm.

Errand elves will be available to assist Faire-goers throughout the event. The Errand Elves, provided by students from Clear Creek School, are available to carry packages for shoppers or patrons may use their “Will Call” service and leave their packages in the elves’ care as they continue shopping. Clear Creek students will also be offering mistletoe to Faire-goers. All donations received for the elves and the mistletoe will go towards these young students who are trying to earn money for an outdoor science education camp.

Additionally, the Nevada City Explorer Scouts will coordinate the free parking in the fairgrounds parking lot; Nevada County 4-H clubs will provide volunteers to serve as the trash clean-up crew for the Faire; Will and Paulette Snyders of Empire Horse & Carriage Company and Randall and Trish Gross of Grass Valley’s Rock-n-Horse Ranch will provide wagon rides around the grounds; and Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to greet children. A photographer will be available to capture the special moment with Santa.

The 25th annual Country Christmas Faire begins Friday, November 27, and runs through Sunday, November 29. Admission is $4 for adults, and children 12 and under are free. Parking is also free.

Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com or call (530) 273-6217.

Create a Gingerbread House and Win!!

2009-11-10T12:02:00.000-08:00

Now is the time for holiday bakers to think about the creation of a magical Gingerbread House to enter into the 7th annual Gingerbread House Competition at the Country Christmas Faire, held November 27 – 29 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.

Competitors may enter any of the 12 categories, including children, teens, adults, families, groups and businesses. New this year is a category for children under 8 years of age who want to enter a house made by a kit.

First through third place winners will receive award money with the Best of Show winning $100. A special gift basket from Tess’ Kitchen Store will be awarded to the Best of Show winner and the People’s Choice Award.

Entry forms must be received at the Fairgrounds by Friday, November 20; the actual gingerbread house entry must be delivered to the Fairgrounds on Tuesday, November 24. All Gingerbread House exhibitors will receive two free passes to the Country Christmas Faire.

Entry forms and a complete list of rules can be picked up at the Fairgrounds office on McCourtney Road, or downloaded from the Fair’s website at www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Country Christmas Faire - November 27, 28, 29

2009-11-04T11:52:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendar for the 25th annual Country Christmas Faire at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley on November 27, 28 and 29.

Rated as one of the top handcrafted shows in Northern California, this year’s Country Christmas Faire will feature unique gifts and crafts from more than 100 top artisans.
Five exhibit buildings will be filled over the Thanksgiving weekend, giving shoppers a chance to start their Christmas shopping with quality hand-made gifts.

Visitors to the Faire will enjoy strolling live entertainment, festival foods, the magical Gingerbread House exhibit, and a community bon-fire. Wagon rides around the Fairgrounds will be offered; and Victorian singers, the bell ringing RiverBells, and the Sierra Symphony quartet will perform throughout the event. Additionally, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be in The Chapel to greet children and listen to their Christmas wishes. A photographer will be available to capture the special moment with Santa.

Back by popular demand, the Northern Mines Girl Scouts will offer free babysitting so parents can drop off their children while they enjoy holiday shopping. Errand elves will also be available to assist you throughout the event.

New this year, the Nevada County Fairgrounds will partner with the Food Bank of Nevada County and HOPE (Help Other People Eat) for a canned Food Drive. Bring a can of food on Sunday, November 29, from 10 am to 4 pm, and get $1 off Sunday’s admission price. All food donated will help feed those in need in Nevada County.

The Country Christmas Faire begins Friday, November 27, and runs through Sunday,
November 29. The hours are 10 am – 5 pm on Friday and Saturday; and 10 am – 4 pm on Sunday. Admission is $4 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Parking is also free. A coupon for $1 off Sunday’s admission price is available on-line at www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Contests, Costumes a Cupcake Walk

2009-10-29T13:30:00.000-07:00

The Nevada County Fairgrounds Foundation is hosting a carved pumpkin contest and a scarecrow contest at its Barn Raising Celebration on Saturday, October 31, from 2 – 5 pm at the Whitney Pavilion at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.

If you’re interested in entering the contests, your carved pumpkins and scarecrows should be dropped off at the Fairgrounds, at the Barns near Gate 5, after 10 am on October 31. Winners will be announced at 4 pm. Additionally, a costume parade and contest will take place at 3 pm.

There will be games and treats for kids and even a cupcake walk! A live and silent auction will be happening throughout the day. We’ll be serving hamburgers and hot dogs and there will be toe-tapping live entertainment for all to enjoy.

It’s all happening, rain or shine, on Saturday, October 31 from 2 – 5 pm at the new Whitney Pavilion at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. The cost is only $5 per person and includes food, treats and entertainment! Parking is free. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, at all Citizen’s Bank branches, at the Book Seller in Grass Valley, or on the day of the event.

Call 530-273-6217, or visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Fairgrounds Foundation to Host Barn Raising Celebration, Halloween Event

2009-10-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Bring your family and friends and come enjoy the festivities at the Nevada County Fairgrounds on Halloween day. Rain or shine, in costume or in street clothes, you’ll enjoy the many events planned inside the new livestock pavilion at the Fairgrounds. We’ll be serving hamburgers and hot dogs, and there will be live entertainment, treats for the kids, a pie auction, and special projects from the Ag Mechanics from our local high schools. You don’t want to miss the costume and scarecrow contests!

Hosted by the Nevada County Fairgrounds Foundation, this Barn Raising celebration and Halloween event is Saturday, October 31, from 2 – 5 pm at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. This event is in celebration of the completion of the Fairgrounds’ new livestock pavilion, the Whitney Pavilion, as well as a fundraising event for the new building.

The cost is only $5 per person and includes food, treats and entertainment! Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, at all Citizen’s Bank branches, or at the Book Seller in Grass Valley. Tickets can also be purchased on the day of the event at the Fairgrounds. Call 530-273-6217, or visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for information.

Submit a Slogan for the 2010 Fair and You Could Win $100

2009-10-08T22:43:00.000-07:00

Trees and timber will be the theme of the 2010 Nevada County Fair and the Fairgrounds is hosting a slogan contest in preparation for the event. Do you have a catchy or fun slogan that you think would be perfect for the 2010 Nevada County Fair?

Visit the Fair’s website at www.NevadaCountyFair.com and submit a slogan about trees or timber and the Fair. If the slogan you submit is selected, you win. The winner will receive $100, as well as a 2010 Nevada County Fair package that includes two free admission tickets for each day of the Fair, a 5-day parking pass for the Fair, and ride coupons.

The contest is open to Nevada County residents only. Slogan ideas must be five words or less and no trade-marked slogans will be considered. The contest runs now through October 31. For those without access to the Internet, entry forms are available at the Nevada County Fairgrounds office, or information can be mailed to the Fairgrounds at P.O. Box 2687, Grass Valley, CA 95945. No phone entries will be accepted.

The 2010 Nevada County Fair is scheduled for August 11 – 15, 2010. For a complete list of contest rules or information, visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com or call (530) 273-6217.

World Class Lumberjacks to Perform at Draft Horse Classic

2009-09-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

Visitors to next weekend’s Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair can get up close and personal with world class wood-chopping lumberjacks, axe throwers, tree climbers, and wielders of mighty chain saws – free of charge.

The 23rd annual Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair starts Thursday, September 24 and runs Sunday, September 27 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley. While there is a charge for Draft Horse performance tickets, admission to the Fairgrounds is free for the Harvest Fair activities. Lumberjack shows will start at 2:30 and 5 pm on Saturday and at 2:00 pm on Sunday on The Green, just as you enter the Fairgrounds at Gate 1. World champions will be performing in each category.

In 20 to 25 seconds a lumberjack will chop through a 13 inch thick log, while standing on the log. Double hand bucking contests will feature two loggers using a crosscut saw to rip through a 15 inch log in six seconds. The Jack and Jill hand bucking event features a man and woman team. Contestants will also compete in log rolling, on dry land not water, and speed tree climbers will also compete.

Live entertainment at the Pine Tree Stage, a world class art show, Treat Street goodies, vendors with western wear and items, a clogging jamboree, a live shoeing competition, community exhibits, and visits to the barns to see the magnificent Gentle Giant Draft Horses are all part of the Harvest Fair line-up.

In addition to the Harvest Fair activities, the Draft Horse Classic features six stunning performances of Draft Horses in the arena. Tickets to the performances are on sale now, as well as the day of the event, and may be purchased by calling the Fair office at 530-273-6217. Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for additional information.

Draft Horse Classic Tickets on Sale Now!!

2009-08-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

Majestic Draft Horse performances, breath-taking competitions, seeing a Draft Horse “up-close,” a clogging jamboree, and a world class lumberjack show are all part of the festivities at the 23rd annual Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair, September 24 – 27, at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley.

Tickets for this must-see annual event are on sale now. Purchase your tickets early and save! If you purchase your performance tickets before the Draft Horse Classic begins, you will receive $3 off the ticket price you’d pay on the day of the event. There are six performances featuring the magnificent Draft Horses – Thursday and Friday at 6:30 pm, Saturday at 10 am & 6:30 pm, and Sunday at 10 am & 4 pm. Tickets can be purchased by calling, faxing or visiting the Fair Office by Wednesday, September 23, at 5 pm.

Although there is a charge for the Draft Horse performances in the arena, admission to the Fairgrounds is free so all can enjoy the many activities of the Harvest Fair. The grounds are alive with western music, Harvest Fair agricultural competitions, world-class lumberjacks performing for the crowds, a live shoeing competition, crowds enjoying Treat Street goodies, and a world-class art show. Plus, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to visit the barns and meet the famous Draft Horses up-close.

On Saturday, enjoy the Fall-like weather underneath the tall pine trees for “A Taste of the Gold Country,” featuring food from an abundance of local restaurants and wineries. For tickets and information, call the Grass Valley Downtown Association at (530) 272-8315, or visit www.HistoricGrassValley.com.

Call (530) 273-6217 or visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for more information.

A Successful Nevada County Fair

2009-08-23T21:46:00.000-07:00

Beautiful weather, a successful canned food drive, more than $400,000 raised for Nevada County youth, several charity benefits, and an increase in overall attendance made the 2009 Nevada County Fair a huge success. Below are some fun Fair facts.

• At Sunday’s canned food drive, 1,240 pounds of food were collected for the
Food Bank of Nevada County. This is enough to feed 550 – 600 families.

• Two hundred and sixty animals were auctioned at this year’s Junior Livestock Auction, raising more than $360,000 for the youth of Nevada County. Funds raised from the auction go directly to these students and many use the money for college education or vocational training.

• This year’s Ag Mechanics Auction, featuring 58 custom projects handmade by FFA students from Bear River and Nevada Union high schools, raised more than $43,000 for these students.

• Many of the non-profit organizations that sell food on Treat Street reported an increase in sales this year. Treat Street consists solely of local non-profit organizations, so proceeds from Fair sales allow these organizations to provide vital services to our community.

• The Fair featured more than 10,000 community exhibits. A complete list of exhibit winners will be posted on the Fair's website by month's end.

• Wednesday evening’s Idol Competition was won by Katie Howard, who received $575 for her charity of choice – Sierra Services for the Blind.

• Saturday’s Locks of Love event had 22 individuals donate hair to help provide a hairpiece to financially disadvantaged children suffering from long-term medical hair loss. VJ’s Salon assisted with the hair donation process, and cut and styled hair for free.

• Sunday evening’s VIP Derby winner was won by Mark Andreus, who received $1,000 for his charity of choice – Christian Encounter Ministries.

• Almost 90,000 Fairgoers visited this year’s Fair. This is a 4% increase from the 2008 attendance. Additionally, carnival sales increased by 2%.

• The Fairgrounds Foundation raised approximately $28,000 through its Heritage Steer program. This money will be used to help pay off the debt on the newly-built Whitney Pavilion, which was built to house livestock, as well as to provide a new show and sale ring for the Junior Livestock Auction.

Nevada County Fair - August 12 - 16

2009-08-11T18:34:00.000-07:00

The Nevada County Fair starts tomorrow. We're busy setting up and getting ready for you! Come see us - August 12 -16. We have such a fun Fair planned! Our website has all the details: www.NevadaCountyFair.com.

Entertainment Abounds: Arena Events, Live Bands, Magic Tricks, and Karaoke

2009-08-09T19:26:00.000-07:00

Entertainment abounds at this year’s Nevada County Fair, August 12 – 16. This year’s Fair will feature five stages of ongoing entertainment. Providing a little something for everyone, there will be everything from Japanese style drumming, to Country music and a hypnotist, to Blues music and old-fashioned Rock and Roll.

Tyzen: Master of Suggestion will be performing on Friday at 3:30 and 6 pm and Saturday at 2 and 6 pm. Tyzen is one of the world’s most remarkable and dynamic stage hypnotists. His hilarious comedic antics have audiences rolling in the aisles with laughter.

Steel Breeze makes their appearance at the Fair on Friday at 8:15 and 9:30. Mogollon, a crowd favorite, known for their guitar wizardry and dueling fiddles, will perform on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights at 8 and 9:30 pm; CoolHeat, playing smooth jazz, will be at the Pine Tree Stage on Friday at 11, 12:30 and 2 pm; and Solid Air will perform original Americana Folk music on Wednesday at 5 and 6:30 pm. New this year, Nevada Hazzurd, playing country and rock, will perform on Thursday at 4:30 and 6 pm at the Budweiser True Music Stage; and Cuesta Drive will play rock and soul on Thursday at 8 and 9:30 pm on the Pine Tree Stage.

Some of Nevada County’s local bands featured this year will be Stepping Stone, a young rock band, on Thursday at 2:30 pm; Nevada County Regulators, providing original and classic rock on Sunday at 5 and 6:15 pm; Grass Valley Taiko, performing Japanese-style drumming on Thursday at 4 and 5:30 pm; and No Taboo, Northern California’s travelin’ party band, will perform on Thursday at 8 and 9:30 pm.

For old-fashioned Rock and Roll, visit the Budweiser Music Stage on Saturday evening at 4 and 5:30 pm to see Highway 49 perform a mixture of Rock and Roll, Blues, and funkadelic Rock. Or, check out Dr. Bach and the Jazz Practitioners, on Sunday at 1:30 and 3 pm on the Pine Tree Stage for some Dixieland, Swing, Dance, Blues and Gospel.

Also, featured on Friday and Saturday nights from 6:30 – 10:30 on the Tumbleweed Stage in the Magic Forest area will be teen bands from the Coalition for a Drug Free Nevada County’s Youth Sector “NEO.” The diverse groups range from Rock, Alternative, Electro, Ska, Metal, Pop Punk, and Indie. Friday will feature Creative Chaos at 6:30 pm; Blue Tuesday at 7:30; Sensual Saint at 8:30; and Electric Shock at 9:30. Saturday evening will feature The Legend of the Sunburst Bandits at 6:30 pm; General Cause at 7:30 pm; Virgin Limbs at 8:30 pm; and 2Hot 3Fast at 9:30.

For something out of the ordinary, check out the Haute Trash Fashion Show, the outrageous fashion show using recycled trash, on Friday at 5:30 pm at the Pine Tree Stage. Or, Spike the Juggler on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 1:30 pm. The Idol Competition will be on Wednesday at 8 pm at the Pine Tree Stage. There’s also nightly karaoke from 8 – 11 pm in the Special Events Tent, and KVMR will be at the Silver Stage, where they will broadcast live during the Fair.

Each night of the Fair will also feature action-packed events in the Arena. On Wednesday – Professional Bull Riding; Thursday – the Rodeo; Friday - Tuff Truck Racing & Monster Trucks; Saturday – Free Style Moto X Riders & Monster Trucks; and Sunday – the Demolition Derby. All arena events begin at 7 pm nightly.

Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for a schedule of events.

Exciting Contests Happening Each Day of the Fair

2009-08-07T12:32:00.000-07:00

At this year’s Nevada County Fair, August 12 – 16, there are exciting contests and activities going on each day! Here are just a few of the fun contests planned for this year’s Fair.

VJ's Salon and Day Spa is sponsoring a Locks of Love event on Saturday, August 15, from noon – 3 pm. Donate your hair to help provide a hairpiece to financially disadvantaged children suffering from long-term medical hair loss. VJ’s will have stylists available to assist with the hair donation process, as well as to cut and style your hair for free.

Do you think you can text faster than anyone? If so, a Text Messaging Speed Contest will be held on Friday, August 14, from 4 – 6 pm. This is for children and adults alike.

Join us for a Gift Wrapping Contest at 2 pm on Wednesday, August 12. You’ll have 30 minutes to create a gift wrapped box out of a variety of supplies. There’s also the “Just Call Me Martha” contest which allows participants 30 minutes to create something special from a variety of supplies. This contest is also on Wednesday from 4 – 6 pm.

New this year is the Diaper Derby! How fast can your baby crawl? Join us on Sunday, August 16, at 4 pm to find out. There are two categories: 6-9 months (must crawl 8 feet) and 10-12 months (start on knees and crawl or walk 10 feet). This contest is limited to the first 20 contestants in each age category.

So you think you want to be a rock star? The place to be is the Special Events Tent from 4 – 6 pm on Saturday, August 15, for Rock Band 2. Show off your rock start talents for the audience to enjoy. Great prizes for all who participate.
For all those magicians-to-be, join us for a Magic Show Contest on Thursday, August 13, from 4 – 6 pm. Kids can perform their magic tricks for the crowd or learn some new magic tricks. All skill and age levels are welcome.

Attach wheels to the fastest squash or carrot from your garden and enter in the Haretrigger Squash or Carrot Mobile Races. Check in at the “Haretrigger” Speedway at noon on Friday, August 14.

There are no entry forms or fees for these events. Just show up ½ hour before the event at the Special Events Tent and get ready to play. Lots of fun and lots of great prizes!

Also, for your viewing pleasure, each day in the Special Events tent will feature special food contests. Join us to see the judging and meet some of the talented cooks in our community. Special food contests for children, happening each day at 3 pm, include a chocolate treat on Wednesday; carrot cake on Thursday; dipping sauce on Friday; salsa on Saturday; and berry pie on Sunday. Special food contests for adults, happening each day at 6 pm, include cheesecake on Wednesday; pies on Thursday; salsa on Friday, chocolate on Saturday, and carrot cake on Sunday.

Carnival Ride from Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch Featured at the Nevada County Fair

2009-08-06T10:51:00.000-07:00

The Nevada County Fair, which opens on Wednesday, will feature a ride purchased from Michael Jackson's infamous Neverland Ranch amusement park. The ride, Balloon Samba, was previously owned by Michael Jackson, operated at the Neverland Ranch and was purchased in the fall of 2008 by California-based carnival company, Butler Amusements.

The ride is designed to look like a hot-air balloon and features hot air balloon carriages. The Balloon Samba seats 32 children in six air balloons. The ride will be part of the carnival area during Nevada County’s five-day Fair.

Butler Amusements purchased the ride, along with five others from Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, last September. One ride is currently travelling with the Butler Amusements Oregon/ Washington carnival unit, one is operating at Coney Island, one is at the Stanislaus County Fair and the others are being refurbished at Butler’s winter quarters in Santa Nella, CA.

Balloon Samba will be open to the public at the Nevada County Fair beginning on Wednesday. This year’s Fair runs August 12 – 16.

July's Winner!

2009-08-04T23:15:00.001-07:00

Congratulations, Debbie! Because you posted a comment on the Nevada County Fair blog, you have been chosen as the monthly winner for two free tickets to the Fair-sponsored event of your choice. Please email us at reply@nevadacountyfair.com to let us know if you would like tickets to the Nevada County Fair, the Draft Horse Classic or the Country Christmas Faire. You could be next month's winner. Simply post a comment on our blog and we'll randomly choose a name at the end of August.

Buy Your Fair Tickets Early and Save!

2009-08-01T22:49:00.000-07:00

Tickets for the Nevada County Fair are on sale now. Purchase your admission, entertainment, and arena event tickets before the Fair begins and save money!

Buy your admission tickets before August 11, and get admission for only $5. Or, take advantage of other pre-sale offers before August 11 – a 5-day Fair pass with unlimited entry for $20; a season parking pass for $25; a carnival ride bracelet, good for unlimited rides for any one day for $23; purchase 30 carnival ride coupons for $20; or purchase any ticket to an arena event and receive admission to the Fair for only $5.

There are several ways to get your tickets early. Pre-sale and discounted tickets may be purchased by calling, faxing, or visiting the Fair Office by Tuesday, August 11 at 5 pm.

Pre-sale tickets can be ordered and picked up at the Fair Office or they can be put in “Will Call” in the Fair's Office, open Monday through Friday from 8 am – 5 pm. To save time, it is recommended that tickets in Will Call be picked up before opening day of the Fair. Beginning August 6 until August 11, pre-sale tickets will be available at the Gate 1 cashiers' booth.

The Fair’s Office is located on McCourtney Road in Grass Valley. The phone number is (530) 273-6217 and the FAX number is (530) 273-1146. Visit www.nevadacountyfair.com for more information.

Body Art Competition at this year's Fair

2009-07-31T12:21:00.000-07:00

New to this year’s Nevada County Fair is “Ink Fusion,” a Body Art Competition. Do you have a unique tattoo? How about a tattoo of a portrait of someone special? The place to be is the Body Art Competition on Sunday, August 16, from noon – 2 pm at the Nevada County Fair.

It’s easy to enter, it’s free, and there are some great prizes. Simply stop by the Fair Office or visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com, fill out a registration form, choose one of the five categories (traditional, portrait, unusual or full body male/female), and be prepared to have some fun! The contest is hosted by Old School Tattoo Parlor in Colfax, and tattoo artists from all over Northern California will be judging the contest. There is a limit of 20 people per category.

The Body Art Competition is one part of the new Extreme Zone, located at Gate 5. This area will feature the Cap City BMX Stunt Team performing Wednesday through Friday; World Style Arm Wrestling Competition on Saturday at 1 pm; as well as the Fire Prevention Mobile Education Trailer, a spider tower for climbing and crawling, and water wars using water balloons – all available during the five days of the Fair.

World Famous Budweiser Clydesdales to Visit the Nevada County Fair

2009-07-29T13:02:00.000-07:00

The world famous Budweiser Clydesdales will be at this year’s Nevada County Fair, August 12 – 16. This magnificent team of horses will be available in the livestock area for viewing each day of the Fair, during regular Fair hours. Stop on by - it's definitely worth the visit.

Meet the 2009 Fair Mascot - Scarlett O'Hare

2009-07-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Greg Lopin of Nevada City for submitting the winning name in the Name the Mascot contest. Greg is the recipient of two free admission tickets for each day of the Fair, a 5-day parking pass and ride coupons.

Congratulations also to the following individuals who submitted the same or similar name. If your name is listed below, you are the lucky winner of two free admission tickets to the Fair.

• Miss Thorne of Citrus Heights
• Pam Hodson-Ralli of Grass Valley
• Emily Kapul of Grass Valley
• Sandy James of Grass Valley
• Ruby Totten of Nevada City
• Terri Murray of Sparks, Nevada
• Carli Siegfried of Grass Valley
• Tammy Veralrud of Grass Valley
• Emily Holcomb of Citrus Heights
• Holly Durham of Discovery Bay
• Marian Devincenzi of Grass Valley
• Beth Demster of Grass Valley
• Melba Brown of Grass Valley

Please send a note to reply@nevadacountyfair.com for details on how to claim your prizes.

Thank you to all who participated; we had more than 640 names submitted. What a creative group of Fair-goers we have! We’ll see you at the Fair.

Sponsor and Drive A Car in the Demolition Derby and You Could Win $1,000 for Charity

2009-07-22T23:09:00.000-07:00

For the second year, the Nevada County Fair is providing organizations and businesses the opportunity to sponsor and drive a car in the Fair’s popular Demolition Derby, while at the same time raising money for a favorite charity or service organization.

Organizations and businesses can purchase a car for $500 and the Fair will provide a Derby car to use in the Demolition Derby. The organization can choose to provide its own driver or the Fair will provide a driver for the car. Additionally, the car can be picked up on August 7 to customize the car or it can be left at the Fair, where it will have a number painted on it.

The sponsored Derby cars will participate in their own event at the Demolition Derby, held on Sunday, August 16, at 7 pm in the Arena. The last of the sponsored cars moving will receive $1,000 towards the charity or service organization of their choice.

There are only a limited number of cars available, so call the Fair Office at
(530) 273-6217 to reserve your car.

Do You Love to Sing? Idol Competition at the Fair!

2009-07-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

Do you love to sing? If so, the Nevada County Fair is looking for talented vocalists to sing in the Nevada County Fair’s Idol Competition at this year’s Fair.

Nevada County residents between the ages of 16 and 28 are invited to participate in this crowd favorite on Wednesday, August 12, at 8 pm on the Pine Tree Stage at the Fairgrounds. The grand prize is $100, as well as a paid entry fee of $250 into the State Fair’s “Talent Star Search” competition in Sacramento.

Singers will be judged by a panel of local celebrities, who will narrow it down to three finalists. Audience members will then vote with quarters for the grand prize winner. The quarters will be weighed on stage and the winner will be announced that night. All quarters collected will be donated to the non-profit of the winner’s choice.

The entry fee is only $5, and entries close on Friday, August 7 at 5 pm. All contestants will receive a free admission pass to the Fair on Wednesday, and 2nd and 3rd place winners will receive Fair packages that include Fair admission, parking and arena tickets. A complete list of rules and a registration form can be obtained from the Fair’s website at www.nevadacountyfair.com, by calling the Fair Office at 273-6217, or sending an e-mail to Debby at debby@nevadacountyfair.com.

June's Blog Winner

2009-07-02T23:21:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Kimala DeSena! Because you posted a comment on the Nevada County Fair blog, you have been chosen as the monthly winner for two free tickets to the Fair-sponsored event of your choice. Please email us at info@nevadacountyfair.com to let us know if you would like tickets to the Nevada County Fair, the Draft Horse Classic or the Country Christmas Faire.

You could be next month's winner. Simply post a comment on our blog and we'll randomly choose a name at the end of July. Actually, we might do a few drawings throughout the month of July. :-)

Name the Nevada County Fair's Mascot ....and WIN!

2009-06-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

This year’s Nevada County Fair mascot is busy preparing for the annual Fair, “A Hare’s Magical A-Fair,” August 12 – 16. However, she needs a name, and we want to know what you think her name should be.

Visit the Fair’s website at www.nevadacountyfair.com and submit a name for the rabbit. If the name you submit is selected, you win. The lucky winner will receive a Nevada County Fair package that includes two free admission tickets for each day of the Fair, a 5-day parking pass for the Fair, and ride coupons. The contest runs now through July 15.

For a complete list of contest rules or information about the contest, visit www.nevadacountyfair.com or call (530) 273-6217.

Nevada County Fair Competition Handbook Now Available

2009-06-01T22:19:00.000-07:00

The complete guide to all the exhibit categories open for entries at this year’s Nevada County Fair is now available. The Fair’s popular Competition Handbook is filled with hundreds of categories and specialty contests for adults and children of all ages, and contains complete information on how to enter exhibit categories, as well as the day to deliver each category’s actual exhibits to the Fairgrounds. The handbook also contains information on ways to attend the Fair for free, discount days, and details about daily contests at the Fair.

New this year, the Nevada County Fair will be awarding a Fair prize package to an individual and a family with the most still exhibits entered in this year’s Fair. Each package includes admission tickets, a parking pass, carnival ride coupons, and arena event tickets for Wednesday or Thursday night.

Copies of the free handbook are available at the Grass Valley and Nevada City Chamber of Commerce offices, county libraries, business sponsors, at the Fairgrounds office, or on-line at www.nevadacountyfair.com.

Entry forms begin being accepted on June 1. The deadline for submitting paper entry forms is July 11 at 1 pm. The deadline for on-line entry forms is July 17 at 5 pm. There is no entry fee if you choose to enter your still exhibit on-line.

Pre-sale tickets for this year’s Nevada County Fair, August 12 – 16, also go on sale today. For more information, visit www.nevadacountyfair.com or call (530) 273-6217.

May's Blog Winner

2009-05-31T22:08:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Vaquerogirl! Because you posted a comment on the Nevada County Fair blog, you have been chosen as the monthly winner for two free tickets to the Fair-sponsored event of your choice. Please email us at info@nevadacountyfair.com to let us know if you would like tickets to the Nevada County Fair, the Draft Horse Classic or the Country Christmas Faire; and if you would like the tickets mailed to you or if you’d prefer to pick them up in person at the Nevada County Fair Office in Grass Valley. If you’d like the tickets mailed to you, we need a name and a mailing address. Thank you so much for your posting.

You could be next month's winner. Simply post a comment on our blog and we'll randomly choose a name at the end of June.

Want to Enter Something in the Fair?

2009-05-21T09:32:00.000-07:00

Want to enter something in the Fair? You know you do!! The Competition Handbook will be available June 1. Find it on-line at our website; at the Fairgrounds Office; or around town at the libraries, chamber of commerce locations, or business sponsors.

We're Hiring!

2009-05-13T14:17:00.001-07:00

Want to work for the Fair during Fair Season? The Nevada County Fairgrounds is hiring! We're hosting a job fair on Wednesday, May 20, from 10 am to 2 pm. Applications will be available and interviews will take place on-site. Lots of jobs available. Visit our website at www.nevadacountyfair.com for details!

Win Free Tickets to a Fairgrounds' Event

2009-03-18T22:44:00.000-07:00

Here’s your chance to win free tickets to a Fairground's Event of your choice! Simply post a comment on this blog and let us know what you think about the Nevada County Fairgrounds - what you love, favorite memory, ideas, suggestions, questions, or a general comment about the Fair and its events. Just for posting a comment, you could win two free tickets to the Nevada County Fair, the Draft Horse Classic, or the Country Christmas Faire. You get to choose the free tickets for the event that you’d like to attend. Each month, we’ll randomly choose a name from the blog for FREE tickets – so let us know what you think.

Terms and Conditions: At the end of each month, we will randomly choose a name from the blog postings to win two free tickets. If your name is chosen, we will notify you through the blog and you may choose to have the tickets of your choice either mailed to you or to pick them up in person at the Nevada County Fairground’s Office in Grass Valley. Anonymous postings are not eligible for the drawing and postings using inappropriate language or slander will also be excluded from the contest.

2009 Events

2008-12-05T14:43:00.000-08:00

Mark your 2009 calendars, and plan to attend one of the many events we have planned for 2009 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.

Nevada County Fair
August 12 - 16, 2009
Mark your calendar for the 2009 Nevada County Fair. Activities include a rodeo, motor sports, on-going live entertainment, barns full of livestock, and thousands of exhibits. As always, Treat Street will be serving an array of fabulous food, and the carnival will feature rides and games for all.
Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair
September 24 - 27, 2009
Heralded as the premier Draft Horse Show in the Western United States, the 2009 Draft Horse Classic will feature the draft horse performances that have been drawing crowds for more than 22 years. In addition to the spectacular performances by the Gentle Giants, there will be art, events, and entertainment for all to enjoy.
Country Christmas Faire
November 27 – 29, 2009
Begin your holiday season with a small-town glimpse of Christmas at the 25th annual Country Christmas Faire. Rated as one of the top handcrafted shows in Northern California, the Faire features unique gifts from more than 100 top artisans. Visitors will enjoy strolling live entertainment, festival foods, Santa and his elves, and a community bon-fire.

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is located at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley, 50 miles northeast of Sacramento, off Highway 49. For directions, event details or general information, visit http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/ or call the Fair Office at (530) 273-6217.

Free Childcare Provided at Country Christmas Faire

2008-11-21T12:08:00.001-08:00

Youth Community Organizations Provide Services to Faire Goers

The Northern Mines Girl Scouts will offer free babysitting services at this year’s Country Christmas Faire, held November 28 – 30 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. This benefit is provided by this youth service organization so that parents can drop off their children while they enjoy holiday shopping. Free babysitting will be provided in the Senior Center at the Fairgrounds; hours for babysitting are the same as the Faire – Friday and Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm; and Sunday from 10 am – 3 pm.

Errand elves will be available to assist Faire-goers throughout the event. The Errand Elves, provided by students from Clear Creek School, are available to carry packages for shoppers or patrons may use their “Will Call” service and leave their packages in the elves’ care as they continue shopping. Clear Creek students will also be offering mistletoe to Faire-goers. All donations received for the elves and the mistletoe will go towards these young students who are trying to earn money for an outdoor science education camp.

Additionally, the Nevada County Explorer Scouts will coordinate the free parking in the fairgrounds parking lot; Nevada County 4-H clubs will provide volunteers to serve as the trash clean-up crew for the Faire; Randall and Trish Gross of Grass Valley’s Rock-n-Horse Ranch will provide wagon rides around the grounds; and Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to greet children. A photographer will be available to capture the special moment with Santa.

The 24th The Country Christmas Faire begins Friday, November 28, and runs through Sunday, November 30. Admissions is $4 for adults, and children 12 and under are free. Parking is also free. Artisans from across the country fill the Fairgrounds exhibit buildings with quality hand-made crafts and unique gifts. Visitors to the Faire will enjoy strolling live entertainment, festival foods, and a community bon-fire.

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is located at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley. For more information, visit http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/ or call (530) 273-6217.

Create a Gingerbread House and Win!

2008-11-14T22:46:00.000-08:00

Now is the time for holiday bakers to think about the creation of a magical Gingerbread House to enter into the 6th annual Gingerbread House Competition at the Country Christmas Faire, held November 28 – 30 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.

Houses, bungalows, cottages, and castles fashioned from spicy gingerbread will be displayed for holiday shoppers to enjoy at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley during the Thanksgiving weekend festivities.

Competitors may enter any of ten categories including kids, adults, families, groups and businesses. Prizes and ribbons abound for adults and kids. First through third place winners will receive award money with the Best of Show winning $100. A special festive gift basket from Tess’ Kitchen Store will also be awarded to the Best of Show winner.

Entry forms must be received at the Fairgrounds by Friday, November 21; the actual gingerbread house entry must be delivered to the Fairgrounds on Tuesday, November 25. All Gingerbread House exhibitors will receive two free passes to the Country Christmas Faire.

Entry forms can be picked up at the Fairgrounds office on McCourtney Road, or downloaded from the Fair’s website at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/.

The Country Christmas Faire begins Friday, November 28, and runs through Sunday, November 30. The hours are 10 am – 5 pm on Friday and Saturday; and 10 am – 3 pm on Sunday. Admissions is $4 for adults, and children 12 and under are free. Parking is also free.

Country Christmas Faire - November 28, 29 and 30

2008-11-05T17:35:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendar for the 24th annual Country Christmas Faire at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley on November 28, 29 and 30. Rated as one of the top handcrafted shows in Northern California, this year’s Country Christmas Faire will feature unique gifts and crafts from more than 100 top artisans.

Five exhibit buildings will be filled over the Thanksgiving weekend, giving shoppers a chance to start their Christmas shopping with quality hand-made jewelry, wooden crafts, hand-woven baskets, stained glass, candles, beadwork, and dozens of other unique gifts.

Visitors to the Faire will enjoy strolling live entertainment, festival foods, the magical Gingerbread House exhibit, and a community bon-fire. Wagon rides around the Fairgrounds will be offered; and Victorian singers, the bell ringing RiverBells, and the Sierra Symphony quartet will perform throughout the event. Additionally, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be in The Chapel to greet children and listen to their Christmas wishes. A photographer will be available to capture the special moment with Santa.

Back by popular demand, the Northern Mines Girl Scouts will offer free babysitting so parents can drop off their children while they enjoy holiday shopping. Errand elves will also be available to assist you throughout the event.

The Country Christmas Faire begins Friday, November 28, and runs through Sunday,November 30. The hours are 10 am – 5 pm on Friday and Saturday; and 10 am – 3 pm on Sunday. Admission is $4 for adults and children 12 and under are free. Parking is also free.

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is located at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley, 50 miles northeast of Sacramento, off Highway 49. For more information, visit the Fair’s web site at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/ or call (530) 273-6217.

Draft Horse Classic Dictionary

2008-09-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

There was a request for terms and definitions to help guide a new Draft Horse Classic attendee to learn as he goes. Click HERE for our Dictionary! Thanks for the request and we hope you learn a lot at the 2008 Draft Horse Classic taking place September 18-21 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley.

For more information visit our website at http://nevadacountyfair.com/dhc/

Blog Posting Ticket Winners!

2008-09-01T23:30:00.000-07:00

If you are posting comments to our blog for a chance to win tickets to the Fair Sponsored Event of your choice, then you better check our site every month around the first of the month to see if you won! So far there have been six winners: March - Denise E, April - Linda, May - Hannah, June - Julie Wheat, July - Yvette and August - Jode!

If you are one of the names above...Congratulations because you posted a comment on the Nevada County Fair blog, you have been chosen as the monthly winner for two free tickets to the Fair-sponsored event of your choice. Please email us at info@nevadacountyfair.com to let us know if you would like tickets to the Draft Horse Classic or the Country Christmas Faire; and if you would like the tickets mailed to you or if you’d prefer to pick them up in person at the Nevada County Fair Office in Grass Valley. If you’d like the tickets mailed to you, we need a name and a mailing address. Thank you so much for your posting. Our blog postings are used to help us continue to offer, improve and create Fair events that can be enjoyed by all!
Have fun telling us what you think about the Nevada County Fair and replying to comments others have already left!

A FAIR Perspective by Retiring CEO Ed Scofield

2008-08-08T06:57:00.000-07:00

Click HERE to read a 25 year long perspective of the beautifully evolving Nevada County Fairgrounds!

Going “Green” at the Nevada County Fair

2008-08-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

As the world's attention focuses on ways to lighten the load on our planet's resources, this year's Nevada County Fair will include several “green” events and features, including a solar powered radio station, a “recycling” fashion show, a mining shack built from recycled materials, additional bins for recycling glass and aluminum, and alternative methods of transportation.

KVMR’s broadcast booth will be powered again this year by solar energy, and supported by Plan It Solar, Northern Sierra Air Quality Management, and Sierra Solar System.

Solar-powered sprint cars will also race by using the power of the sun. The cars, created using solar cell kits, were built and designed by the youth of Nevada County. The cars will race on a 20’ course at the Dance Pad on Saturday, August 9, at noon.

The popular Haute Trash fashion show returns this year on Wednesday, August 6, at 6 pm, and again on Thursday, August 7, at 5:30 pm, on the Pine Tree Stage. This show presents a hilarious aspect of recycling by using discarded materials to make clothing of all sorts. This show is sponsored by Nevada County Recycles, a sponsor of the Fair.

Again this year, the Fairgrounds has partnered with Nevada County Recycles and People First of Nevada County to provide recycling services during the Fair. There will be an increased number of bins placed around the Fairgrounds for recycling glass and aluminum. Every morning before the Fair opens, members of the local People First Chapter will be making the rounds collecting and replacing the bags in the bins. People First is a local self-advocacy group for adults with developmental disabilities, affiliated with state and national groups.

On display outside the Main Building is a mining shack created by students of the county’s Regional Occupational Program (ROP). Built in conjunction with the Nevada County Contractors’ Association, who created the assignment for the students, the building is made entirely of recycled materials.

Animal manure from exhibit animals is available for pickup by gardeners and others during the week following the Fair. The Saturday following the Fair, the Nevada County Farm Bureau will remove and recycle the remaining manure by transporting it to local farms for composting. The Farm Bureau also does the removing and recycling of manure following the Draft Horse Classic in September.

The Fair also recognizes that its event can create traffic congestion issues. Because of this and the high cost of fuel, the Fairgrounds has made alternative methods of transportation available to Fair-goers. Gold Country Stage will offer extended service to the Fair. The cost from Nevada City or Grass Valley is $1 each way, and the cost from Auburn or Penn Valley is $2 each way. Or, you can park at the Nevada Union High School parking lot and take the free shuttle, provided by the Nevada County Fairgrounds, to/from the Fairgrounds. The shuttle leaves every half hour, Wednesday through Sunday, starting at 8:30 am. New this year, the Fair will offer free parking for motorcycles at a designated area at Gate 1.

"We have always had an eye on reducing the environmental impact of the Fair," says Fair CEO Ed Scofield. "We're happy to see the growing support among participants for a more environmentally positive approach."

For more information, visit www.nevadacountyfair.com or call (530) 273-6217.

Nevada County Fair’s 2008 Blue Ribbon Award

2008-08-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

Tony Sauer and Sam Dardick have been named the Nevada County Fair’s 2008 Blue Ribbon Award recipients. The award was created by the Fair’s industry association, the Western Fairs Association (WFA), to recognize dedicated individuals who support their local Fair. Both Sauer and Dardick have been instrumental in providing guidance to the Fair in creating a more disabled-friendly Fair, and in creating the annual Day for People with Disabilities at the Fair.

Sauer and Dardick began working with the Nevada County Fairgrounds in 1983 when a recently installed cobblestone path created a challenge for those with walkers and wheelchairs. They worked with the Fair to develop solutions to make the path more user-friendly. Since that time they have worked with the Fair to create grounds that are safe and user-friendly to those with disabilities. They have created surveys that helped the Fair identify changes that needed to occur to make the grounds more disabled-friendly, have assisted the Fair in implementing these changes, and, even today, continue to help the Fair identify areas that can be improved upon to create a better environment for persons with disabilities.

“The contributions that Tony and Sam have made to Nevada County and the Fairgrounds are significant,” said Ed Scofield, Nevada County Fairgrounds CEO. “Their tireless efforts and work have created a better and safer Fair for our community.”

Sam Dardick, an advocate for people with disabilities, is a former Nevada County Supervisor and a founder of FREED Center for Independent Living, a non-profit group dedicated to serving people with disabilities. He also took the lead in California to lobby for the Americans with Disabilities Act, which passed in 1990 to prohibit discrimination against disabled people.

Tony Sauer currently serves as the director of California’s Department of Rehabilitation. Prior to that, he served as executive director for the Nevada-Sierra Regional In-Home Supportive Services Public Authority, where he managed the recruiting and training of more than 1,000 workers who provide services to people with disabilities. He was also the executive director for the FREED Center for Independent Living.

Sauer and Dardick will be recognized at the Fair’s Opening Ceremonies on Wednesday, August 6, and again at 12:30 on Friday, August 8, at the Pine Tree Stage. For information about the Fair, August 6 – 10, call (530) 273-6217 or visit www.nevadacountyfair.com.

Entertaining and Informative Horse Demonstrations

2008-08-04T10:06:00.000-07:00

Demonstrations showcasing everything from handling baby foals to riding a young horse for its first time, and from miniatures to draft horses, are scheduled at the 2008 Nevada County Fair, August 6 – 10. Demonstrations take place every half hour from 11:30 am until 5:30 pm Wednesday through Sunday. In addition, a halter competition is slated for Thursday at 8 am.

“Our goal is to entertain visitors, as well as help educate them,” says Horse Exhibit Coordinator Ron Davis. “We have lined up exhibitors from all over Northern California.”

There will be draft horses pulling wagons, barrel racing, dressage, and foal handling exhibitions. Each day at 3:30 pm, professional horse trainer Jerily McCormick will demonstrate how to start round-pen training with a two-year-old colt. “Hopefully, the horse will advance from basic ground training the first day to being able to be ridden at a walk, jog and lope by the fifth day,” explains McCormick, a Nevada County resident who has been training horses for two decades.

Haflingers, the “Golden Horse of Austria,” reveal their versatility by pulling carriages, jumping, being ridden English and Western, and playing a competitive game of equine soccer. The horses actually kick the beach ball with their legs, trying to score goals (see photo).

Other breeds will also be featured, including Peruvian Pasos, Paints, Quarter Horses, Arabians, Morgans, Tennessee Walking Horses, Mules, Shires, Spotted Drafts, and Miniature horses. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm, herding dogs will exhibit their innate abilities to gather and move sheep and other livestock.

For specific demonstrations and times, please see the Nevada County Fair Schedule located at the Fair Office, at the Gates at the Fairgrounds, or on-line at the Fair’s website at www.nevadacountyfair.com. For more information about this year’s Fair, call the Fair Office at 530-273-6217.

ENTERTAINMENT ABOUNDS AT THE NEVADA COUNTY FAIR

2008-08-01T17:15:00.000-07:00

Thrilling Arena Events, Live Bands, Magic Tricks, and Karaoke

Entertainment abounds at this year's Nevada County Fair, August 6-10. In addition to carnival rides, Treat Street goodies, community exhibits, nightly arena events, and barns full of livestock, this year's Fair will feature five stages of ongoing entertainment.

Providing a little something for everyone, there will be everything from Japanese style drumming, to Country music and magic tricks, to Blues music and old-fashioned Rock and Roll.

Here's a few of this year's acts:

- Steel Breeze, famous for the 1982 hit "Don't You Want Me Anymore," makes their appearance at the Fair on Friday at 8 and 9:30 pm at the Budweiser Music Stage.

- Mogollon, known for their guitar wizardry and dueling fiddles, will perform on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights at 8 and 9:30 pm,

- Patton Leatha, playing Top 40 hits, will be at the Pine Tree Stage on Saturday from 8 – 9:30 pm.

- Solid Air, recently nominated for a Grammy, will perform original American Folk music on Wednesday at 4 pm at the Pine Tree Stage.

Some of our local bands featured this year will be:

- Grass Valley Taiko, the local group performing Japanese-style drumming on Friday at 2 pm on the Pine Tree Stage.

- The Denny Russell Band will perform Country Rock on Thursday at 8 and 9:30 pm on he Pine Tree Stage

- Inside Strait will perform contemporary Rock and Country on Friday at 3pm at the Budweiser Music Stage.

- For old-fashioned Rock and Roll, visit the Budweiser Music Stage on Saturday evening at 4 pm to see Highway 49, The Band perform a mixture of Rock and Roll, Blues, and funkadelic Rock.

- Or, check out the San-Francisco based trio, The Bonedrivers, on Sunday at 8 and 9:30 on the Pine Tree Stage for some Roadhouse Style Rock and Blues.

- If you're in the mood for Blues, check out The Shane Dwight Band on Wednesday at 8 and 9:30 pm at the Budweiser Music Stage.

For something out of the ordinary:

- Magic by Bill perform his amazing feats on Friday and Saturday in the morning.

- Idol Competition on Wednesday at 8 pm at the Pine Tree Stage

- Karaoke from 8 – 11 pm in the Special Events Tent

- KVMR will be at the Silver Stage, where they will broadcast live during the Fair. Stop by and listen to a variety of local and regional musicians performing each night.

Each night of the Fair will also feature action-packed events in the Arena.
All arena events begin at 7 pm nightly.

- Wednesday – Professional Bull Riding

- Thursday – the Rodeo

- Friday - Tuff Truck Racing & Monster Trucks

- Saturday – Free Style Moto X Riders & Monster Trucks

- Sunday – the Demolition Derby.

For a complete schedule of events, visit www.nevadacountyfair.com, or call (530) 273-6217. This year's Fair runs August 6 – 10.

IF YOU LOVE TO SING YOU CAN WIN BIG !!

2008-07-26T02:18:00.000-07:00

Do you love to sing? If so, the Nevada County Fair is looking for talented vocalists to sing in the “Barnyard Buckaroos” Idol Competition at this year’s Fair.

Nevada County residents between the ages of 16 and 28 are invited to participate in this crowd favorite on Wednesday, August 6, at 8 pm on the Pine Tree Stage at the Fairgrounds. The grand prize is $100 and an opportunity to compete in the State Fair competition in Sacramento.

Singers will be judged by a panel of local celebrities, who will narrow it down to three finalists. Audience members will then vote with quarters for the grand prize winner. The quarters will be weighed on stage and the winner will be announced that night. All quarters collected will be donated to the non-profit of the winner’s choice.

There’s still time to sign up! The entry fee is only $5, and entries close on Friday, August 1 at 5 pm. A complete list of rules and a registration form can be obtained at the Fair office, by calling 530-273-6217, or by contacting Debby.

Bring your posse, your quarters, and be prepared for a great night of music and entertainment at this year’s Nevada County Fair, August 6-10.

NEVADA COUNTY FAIR TICKETS ON SALE NOW

2008-07-25T00:19:00.000-07:00

Tickets for the Nevada County Fair are on sale now. Purchase your admission and entertainment tickets before the Fair begins and receive a discount. There are several ways to get your tickets early.

Pre-sale and discounted tickets may be purchased by calling, faxing or visiting the Fair Office by Tuesday, August 5 at 5 pm.

Exhibitors may purchase tickets on-line through the exhibit entry system. Exhibitors can access the on-line entry system through the Fair’s website at www.nevadacountyfair.com. On-line entry capability will end on Friday, July 25 at 5 pm.

Buy your admission tickets before August 5, and get admission for only $4. Or, take advantage of other pre-sale offers before August 5 – a 5-day Fair pass with unlimited entry for $20; a season parking pass for $25; a carnival ride bracelet, good for unlimited rides for any one day for $23; or purchase 30 carnival ride coupons for $15.

Pre-sale tickets will be mailed to customers until Friday, July 25. Tickets for orders received after that date will be put in “Will Call” in the Fair's Administration Office, open Monday through Friday from 8 am – 5 pm. Beginning July 31 until August 5, pre-sale tickets will be available at the Gate 1 cashiers' booth.

After August 5, admission for the Fair is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $3 for children 6-12; and free to children under 5 years of age.

Visit www.nevadacountyfair.com for more information.

Little Buckaroos Can WIN $$BIG BUCKS$$

2008-07-25T00:10:00.000-07:00

Two new arena events – Mutton Bustin’ and Calf Scramble – are planned for young children and teens in the Arena on Wednesday and Thursday night of the Nevada County Fair, August 6-10.

Featured in the Arena during the Professional Bull Riding on Wednesday and the Rodeo on Thursday will be Mutton Bustin’, where eight young cowboys and cowgirls between the ages of 5 and 7 years old will get the chance each evening to mount their trusty sheep and head for the thrill of their young lives. Participants must be between the ages of 5 – 7, and must not weigh more than 65 pounds.

Also featured at the Arena on the same two nights will be the Calf Scramble, where ten teams, each consisting of a boy and girl, will compete with one another to catch, halter and coax their calf across the finish line. Participants must be between the ages of 12 – 18, and must weigh at least 100 pounds.

Western attire is required for both events, and there is no entry fee. Great prizes will be awarded for both events. For the Mutton Bustin’, prizes are $50 for first prize, $25 for second prize, and $10 for third prize. For the Calf Scramble, prizes are $100 for first prize, $50 for second prize, and $25 for third prize. There are a limited number of spots available, so call the Fair Office at (530) 273-6217 to reserve a spot in either event, as well as obtain an application and a list of rules.

This year’s Fair is August 6-10. Visit www.nevadacountyfair.com for more information.

BUSINESSES/ORGANIZATIONS CAN SPONSOR AND DRIVE IN THE DEMOLITION DERBY

2008-07-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

YOU COULD WIN $1,000 FOR YOUR FAVORITE CHARITY

For the first time, the Nevada County Fair is providing organizations and businesses the opportunity to sponsor and drive a car in the Fair’s popular Demolition Derby, while at the same time raising money for a favorite charity or service organization.

Organizations and businesses can purchase a car for $500 and the Fair will provide a Derby car to use in the Demolition Derby. The organization can choose to provide its own driver or the Fair will provide a driver for the car. Additionally, the car can be picked up on August 1 to customize the car or it can be left at the Fair, where it will have a number painted on it.

The sponsored Derby cars will participate in their own event at the Demolition Derby, held on Sunday, August 10, at 7 pm in the Arena. The last of the sponsored cars moving will receive $1,000 towards the charity or service organization of their choice.

There are only a limited number of cars available, so call the Fair Office at
(530) 273-6217 to reserve your car, and obtain a list of rules and all the necessary forms. Visit www.nevadacountyfair.com for more information.

FAMILY OF THE YEAR TO BE HONORED

2008-07-16T12:42:00.000-07:00

Photo Taken by: Shaffers Originals

The Henderson-Drew Family of Grass Valley has been named Family of the Year by the Nevada County Fair’s Board of Directors. The Board chose the Henderson-Drew family because of all the work they do to support Nevada County and for consistently encouraging the participation of Nevada County youth in agricultural projects.

Karen Henderson and Jim Drew are both agriculture teachers at Nevada Union High School and work extensively with high school students. Drew has been teaching at the high school for 31 years, and Karen for 16 years. In addition to their teaching responsibilities, they coach numerous leadership and career development FFA teams, and Karen is the school’s FFA advisor while Jim is the head cook for Cooper’s Café, the snack shack at the school’s football home games. They also oversee 50 different livestock projects during the summer, as well as more than 50 agriculture mechanics projects exhibited at the Fair.

“Karen and Jim have become such an integral part of the Fair,” said Ed Scofield, Fairgrounds CEO. “To me, they embody the spirit of Nevada County. They dedicate countless hours to their students and Nevada County agriculture. Instead of taking the summer off from their teaching, they are busier than ever. They begin the Fair season with Karen and her horticulture class planting the more than 1,000 hand-raised Marigolds along the Gold Path, then they work with their students throughout the summer on their livestock projects, and, finally, they see the students through their year-long culminating project – the Ag Mechanics Auction and the Junior Livestock Auction. These events benefit the youth of Nevada County by enabling students to afford college or vocational training. None of these events would be possible without the time and effort that Jim and Karen put into these projects.”

The Henderson-Drew family consists of six children, two grandchildren, and a grandchild on the way. All six children are graduates of Nevada Union. Karen’s three children are Pat, 30, who is currently attending Sonoma State for his city planning degree; Lesa, 28, the CEO of the California Wool Growers and California Pork Producers; and Sara, 22, graduating in June with her bachelor of science degree in agriculture business. Drew’s three children are Jessie, 30, a Chico State graduate and a nursing student, married to a Grass Valley police officer; Joy, 27, married and expecting their first child; and Jamie, 24, married and working in Sacramento.
As for their involvement in FFA, the couple’s dedication is admirable. In addition to FFA advisory roles, together they travel more than 6,000 miles a year taking students to competitions, leadership conferences, and various activities. Most of their weekends in the spring are spent with FFA travel and conferences. However, the family does find time for relaxation. They love to go to Eagle Lake and fish. Still, even those trips involve their students, as the two usually take the new officer team with them for a leadership and planning retreat during the summer.

Both families have been a fixture in Nevada County for more than 40 years. In fact, Henderson’s parents, Jack and Nancy Henderson, are being inducted into this year’s Fair’s Hall of Fame for their on-going support of the youth of Nevada County.

Prior to moving here in 1964, Karen spent her summers in Nevada County while her grandparents built their home, where the Henderson-Drew family currently resides. “The highlight of my summer when I was a child,” she says, “was going to the Nevada County Fair and going on all the rides.”

About being named the Fair’s Family of the Year, Henderson says, “We are honored to be recognized because we believe in what we are doing – with our program and with our community – because the FFA not only benefited our own kids but thousands of students. We both understand the importance of instilling work ethic and a caring attitude in every student we have in class, while at the same time we help students understand the importance of leadership – for themselves and their community.”

The Henderson-Drew Family will be honored at opening ceremonies of the Nevada County Fair, which runs August 6-10. They will receive free admission to the entire run of the Fair, along with parking passes, free carnival rides, and admission to all five nights of arena events. In addition, Schaffers Originals of Grass Valley will create a family portrait to commemorate the family’s selection as the Fair’s Family of the Year.

For more information about the Nevada County Fairgrounds, visit their website at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/ or call (530) 273-6217.

NEVADA COUNTY FAIR EXTENDS ENTRY DEADLINE

2008-07-04T10:18:00.000-07:00

If You Want to Enter an Exhibit, You Have an Extra Week to Complete the Entry Form

The deadline to complete the paperwork to enter your exhibits in the Nevada County Fair has been extended. Nevada County residents interested in entering exhibits in one of the more than 300 available categories must either submit a paper entry form to the Fair Office or enter online at the Fair’s website at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/.
The entry deadline for walk-in, paper entries is Friday, July 18, at 5 pm for both still exhibits and livestock. The entry deadline for on-line entries is Friday, July 25, at 5 pm, for still exhibits only. There will not be any late entry fees.

The deadline to enter your exhibits in the Nevada County Fair is just around the corner. The entry deadline is 1 pm on Saturday, July 12, for Nevada County residents who want to enter their baked goods, paintings, photographs, honey, quilts, poetry, or anything else in one of the more than 300 available categories.

Exhibitors must either submit paper entry forms to the Fair office or enter online at the Fair’s website at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/. Late paper entries will be accepted until July 18 at 5 pm, but will be charged an additional $2 fee per exhibit. The deadline for on-line entries is Friday, July 18 at 5 pm. There is no entry fee if you choose to enter your still exhibit on-line.

With this year’s Fair theme of “Barnyard Buckaroos,” there are plenty of special entry possibilities for those interested in entering projects for judging. Buckaroo Furnishings, Decorated Cowboy Hats and Boots, Milk Carton Covered Wagons, and “My Own Barnyard Buckaroo” photo contest are all part of this year’s fun for the Fair.

There are still a limited number of kits available to those interested in participating in the Solar Powered Sprint Car contest for youth and teens. The Fair provides the solar cell kit, and competitors then design and build a solar powered vehicle that will race on a 20’ race course. Solar cell kits can be picked up at the Fair office.

For a free ticket to the Nevada County Fair, be part of our “Wild Horse Round-Up,” and find one of the wild horses hidden in local businesses around Grass Valley and Nevada City. If you spot one of the horses, bring it to the Fair Office on McCourtney Road by 5 pm on August 1 and receive your free ticket.

Complete descriptions of all categories and contests are available online or in the Fair's free Competition Handbook. The handbook is available at the Fair office, area libraries, chamber of commerce offices, various sponsoring merchants, and online at the Fair's web site.

This year’s Nevada County Fair is August 6-10, and there will be thousands of community exhibits, barns full of champion livestock, thrilling arena motorsports, five stages of ongoing entertainment, games, carnival rides, and Treat Street goodies awaiting Fair-goers.

For more information about entry deadlines or this year’s Nevada County Fair, visit the Fair’s website at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/ or call (530) 273-6217.

Thank you from Fair CEO

2008-06-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

I'm Ed, the CEO of the Nevada County Fairgrounds. It is a pleasure to read your comments regarding the Nevada County Fair and the Draft Horse Classic. I know I speak for all of our staff when I say that we take great pride in trying to produce one of the finest Fairs and Draft Horse Show in the United States. We are always looking for suggestions on how we might improve our events. So keep sending us good thoughts; but, new ideas and suggestions for improvements are also appreciated. Thank you for supporting our wonderful Fair and the Draft Horse Classic.

MOTHER LODE HORSE SHOW RESULTS

2008-06-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

Karen Poly on Desert Rain

with Ed Scofield, CEO of the Nevada County Fairgrounds,

presenting the Honor Schaps Driving Class Award (Pictured Below)

The Nevada County Fairgrounds was filled with horse enthusiasts this past weekend as exhibitors competed in the 2008 Mother Lode Horse Show. This annual three-day event gives spectators an opportunity to observe participants work with their horses as they compete in Youth, Driving, English, Halter and Western Shows. At the conclusion of each class, competitors are awarded their placing, a demonstration of achievement in horsemanship. The results of the Mother Lode Horse Show are listed below.

The public is invited to enter their horses in the Fair’s “Halter Show,” scheduled for Thursday, August 7, at 8 am. Interested exhibitors can enter online at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/ or visit the Fair office on McCourtney Road.

The Mother Lode Horse Show is the official horse show of the Nevada County Fair. This year’s Nevada County Fair starts Wednesday, August 6 and runs through Sunday, August 10. For more information about this year’s Fair, call (530) 273-6217 or visit the Fair website.

Kaitlyn Montre on Bos Ghawn Flashin with Sandy Woods, Deputy Manager of the Nevada County Fairgrounds, presenting the English 17 & Under High Point Winner (Pictured Above)

2008 Mother Lode Horse Show Results
Advanced English Youth: Lindsey Smith, Riding Quiet Man
Western 13 & Under Youth: Carson Adams, Riding Diamonds and Lace
Western 14 & Over Youth: Lindsey Rich, Riding Tipsy Glow (Sponsors for the Junior Show include: Keith & Jeanette Royal, Our 49er Feed & Farm Supply)
**Driving High Point: Karen Poly, Driving Desert Rain
Susan Parnell Ladies Pleasure Driving: Joan River, Driving Image
Tori Thompson Perpetual Trophy: Kathy Freeman, Driving Coffing Oaks Knight Music (This is a new award that is sponsored by Noble Beasts Graphics of Nevada City and owner Tommy Thompson of Grass Valley in memory of Tori Thompson, longtime resident and business owner in Nevada County. Her passion was breeding and showing carriage horses. She paid particular attention to quality turnout presentations.)
Honor Schaps Open Driving: Karen Poly, Driving Desert Rain (Sponsored by Sierra Saddlery & Mercantile)
Obstacles, Gamblers Choice: Kathy Freeman, Driving Coffing Oaks Knight Music (Suzi Mason, Century 21 Gold Dust Realty)
English Rider, 17 & Under: Kaitlyn Montre, Riding Bos Ghawn Flashin
**Hunters: Kayla Schaeffer, Riding Ty One On
**Jumpers: Teresa Amaro, Riding Even Steven
**Amateur Hunter: Teresa Amaro, Riding Even Steven
**English Pleasure: Tie given between – Nadine Webb, Riding Trouble in the News and Mandi Gregory, Riding Noble Hawk
Adult Amateur Hunters: Teresa Amaro, Riding Even Steven (Sponsored by United Country- Town and Country Realty and Laura Berman)
Ted Schaps Hunter Sweepstakes: Sarah McLemore, Riding Justa Joy Ride (Sponsored by Emigrant Springs Ranch. The Perpetual trophy, in memory of Ted Schaps, was donated by Judge Milton Schwartz, Mrs. Henry Downey Tiechert and Dr. & Mrs. Frank Boutin.)
Glen Silva Jumper Sweepstakes: Teresa Amaro, Riding Even Steven (Sponsored by Golden Empire Equestrians. The Perpetual trophy was made in memory of Glen and Stanton Silva.)
Open Hunter Hack: Sarah, McLemore, Riding Justa Joy Ride (Sponsored by California Pacific Mortgage)
Nevada County Fair English Pleasure Championship: Nadine Webb, Riding Trouble in the News (Sponsored by Harter Thoroughbred Farm)
Championship Mares: Campion – Scott Pimentel with Sucha Smooth Approval
Reserve Champion – Edie Lehman with Lenita Mia
Championship Geldings/Stallions: Champion –Danielle Jordan with MD Credit Card
Reserve Champion – Edie Lehman with Brumarba IBN Shai
Western Rider, 17 & Under: Victoria West, Riding Docs Poco Starlite
Best Mule: Tie given between –Jennie Gerardot, Riding Iza Cool Jet and JoDe Collins, Riding Cheap Trick
**Stock Horse: Brandi Esteves, Riding Comanda Payday
** Western Pleasure: Jennie Gerardot, Riding Iza Cool Jet
Carol Huddleston, Bridle Horse, Lady to Ride: Brandi Esteves, Riding Comanda Payday (Perpetual trophy in memory of Carol Huddleston)
Lowell Huddleston Stock Horse: Brandi Esteves, Riding Comanda Payday (Perpetual trophy in memory of Lowell Huddleston, sponsored by Golden Empire Equestrians.)
**Trail: Edie Lehman, Riding Lady Derringer
Nevada County Fair Trail Championship: Jane Short, Riding Dude to Wrangler (Sponsored by Ridge Feed & Supply)

** High Point Awards are a part of the overall Mother Lode Circuit. Final awards will be presented to the rider with the most points at the end of the circuit.

Nevada County Fair August 6-10

2008-06-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

“Barnyard Buckaroos” is the Nevada County Fair’s theme this year, so get on your chaps and ridin’ gear and be prepared for five days of barn burnin’ fun at the Fair in Grass Valley. The daily parade (at 5 p.m.) will return this year, with Dr. Bach & the Jazz Practitioners leading the procession around the grounds to the beat of their Dixieland rhythms. Find the start of the parade at the flag pole, just inside the Main gate.

For big and little buckaroos interested in entering projects for judging, there are several new exhibit categories this year. Denim Art, Rope Art, Cowboy Boot Cake, Decorated Cowboy Hats, Buckaroo Blanket, Milk Carton Covered Wagons, and Wanted Posters are just some of the special categories. All of the categories, as well as online entry information, will be listed on the Fair’s web site at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/.

Free entertainment is available all day, every day, at five different stages throughout the Fairgrounds. Additionally, general Fair activities include the rodeo, bull riding, motor sports, singers, thrill acts, animals, thousands of exhibits, karaoke, an interactive agriculture exhibit, magic shows and puppetry. As always, Treat Street will be serving an array of fabulous food, and the carnival will feature rides and games for all ages. The incredibly flashy Haute Trash Fashion Show returns this year to the Pine Tree Stage on opening night, and again on closing night. The Ag Mechanics Auction will be held on Friday the 8th and the Junior Livestock Auction on Sunday, August 10. These popular annual events will raise more than half a million dollars for Nevada County youth in agriculture.
Gates open daily at 10 a.m. and close each evening at 11 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors (65 and older), $3 for children 6 to 12 and free to children five years old and younger. Several special pre-sale packages are available this year, including a fair admission package for only $4. Kids Day is Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and during that time all children 12 years and under are admitted for free. Other values include a “pay-for-one” price in the carnival area, which allows unlimited rides for $28. This package can also be purchased in advance for only $23 when bought by Boy Scout Troops or at the Nevada County Fair office by August 5.
The Fair is at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley, 50 miles northeast of Sacramento, off Highway 49.

For more information about special admission price packages, events and schedules, visit the Fair’s web site at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/ or call (530) 273-6217.

Competition Handbook Now Available

2008-06-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

You Can’t Win Unless You Enter!

The Fair’s popular Competition Handbook is now available and packed with information about familiar categories and new contests. The handbook is full of the usual categories, and with this year’s Fair theme of “Barnyard Buckaroos,” there are also plenty of special entry possibilities for those interested in entering projects for judging. Make something out of jeans, make a buckaroo blanket, a horse cake, or decorate a cowboy hat or pair of boots. For children and teens, there are several special categories, including creating a milk carton covered wagon, a wanted poster of a notorious bandit, a western picture frame, a covered wagon or log cabin out of a shoe box. “My Own Barnyard Buckaroo” is a dress up contest where kids can dress their pet or barnyard pal and take a picture.

Residents who have exhibited within the last three years will get the handbook by mail. The free handbook will also be available at the Grass Valley and Nevada City Chamber of Commerce offices, county libraries, business sponsors, at the Fairgrounds office or on-line at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/.

Entries open on June 2. The deadline for submitting paper entry forms is July 12 at 1 pm. The deadline for on-line entries is Friday, July 18 at 5 pm. Winning exhibits receive prize ribbons and some get money awards. The handbook contains information on premiums paid per category and other Fair information such as how to attend the Fair for free, discount days, and details about daily contests.

For more information about the Competition Handbook and this year’s Nevada County Fair, visit their website at http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/ or call (530) 273-6217.

LOCAL H.S. STUDENTS PLANT MARIGOLDS

2008-05-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

Students from Nevada Union FFA spent the day at the Nevada County Fairgrounds planting more than 200 Marigolds along the Gold Path at the entrance of the Fairgrounds.

This is the second year that students enrolled in the horticulture class at Nevada Union – led by Karen Henderson, Agriculture Instructor and FFA advisor at Nevada Union – have grown and planted the Marigolds to create the walkway known as the Gold Path, which runs from near the Main entrance to the beginning of Treat Street.

Each year, the high school group grows the Marigolds from seed, in anticipation of planting them along the Gold Path. In addition to Marigolds, they grow flats of Impatiens and Coleus, which are planted in flower beds throughout the Fairgrounds. The plants are raised in the greenhouse at the school. They are then planted at the Fair, and also sold throughout Nevada County, including at the Farmer’s Market held on Saturday mornings during the summer at the Fairgrounds.

“The students put many class hours of work into this project,” said Henderson. “The Gold Path is one of several hands-on projects the students complete while being enrolled in horticulture at Nevada Union. I hope when individuals walk down this path, they remember that it was our local high school students who helped create this beautiful pathway.”

The Fair also partners with Nevada Union and Bear River High Schools to produce the annual Ag Mechanics Auction and Junior Livestock Auction, which raise more than half a million dollars for Nevada County youth in agriculture. The Ag Mechanics Auction will be held on Friday, August 8 in the evening and the Junior Livestock Auction will be held on Sunday, August 10.

This year’s Nevada County Fair starts Wednesday, August 6 and runs through Sunday, August 10. The Nevada County Fairgrounds is located at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley. For more information about this year’s Fair, call the Fairgrounds office at (530) 273-6217 or visit their web site: http://www.nevadacountyfair.com/.

Draft Horse Classic Tix on Sale!

2008-05-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

DRAFT HORSE CLASSIC AND HARVEST FAIR TICKET SALES BEGIN MAY 1

The 22nd Annual Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair
draws horse enthusiasts from across the nation

The 22nd Annual Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair takes place September 18 – 21 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. On May 1, orders will be accepted by mail or FAX only. Phone orders and walk-in orders will be accepted beginning June 1. Order forms can be downloaded from the Fair’s website at www.nevadacountyfair.com/dhc, or by visiting the Fairgrounds’ Main Office. It is recommended that customers take advantage of the early mail or fax option as it provides the best available seating and weekend evening performances often sell out early.

The four-day Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair will feature six performances by draft horses displaying their strength and precision in the show ring. Although there is a charge for the performances in the arena, admission to the Fairgrounds is free, allowing visitors to stroll the grounds, pick up a western item or two from vendors, listen to the various entertainment acts, enjoy the world-class western art exhibit, and savor a treat from Treat Street.

Advanced tickets for reserved seating at the Draft Horse Classic arena are $21 a person, or $24 if purchased on the day of the event. General admission seats – first come, first seated – are $18 in advance, or $21 if purchased the day of the event.

If you’d like a chance to win free tickets to the Draft Horse Classic, simply post a comment here on our blog at www.nevadacountyfair.blogspot.com and let us know what you think about the Nevada County Fairgrounds – what you love, your favorite memory, ideas, suggestions, or general comments about the Fair and its events. Just for posting a comment, you could win two free tickets to a Fair-sponsored event of your choice.

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is located at 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley. For more information, visit their website at www.nevadacountyfair.com or call (530) 273-6217.

Nevada County Fair Awarded for Community Service

2008-04-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

The 17th District Agricultural Association (aka Nevada County Fair) received the Nevada County Economic Resource Council’s Community Appreciation Award on Friday. The Community Appreciation Award honors businesses in Nevada County that embody and celebrate community service and provide valuable economic services to Nevada County. “This award deservedly went to the Fairgrounds for a number of reasons,” said Gil Mathew, President and CEO of the Nevada County Economic Resource Council. “First, it recognizes Ed Scofield for the phenomenal work he’s done at the Fairgrounds, and the tremendous impact that work has had on our community. Secondly, it recognizes the Fair for fostering community youth agricultural programs like 4-H and FFA, and for the economic contributions the Fairgrounds make to Nevada County.”

According to the California Department of Food and Agriculture, the Nevada County Fairgrounds is an economic, social and cultural treasure for Nevada County. On average, the Fair contributes nearly $21 million in economic impact to Nevada County, creates approximately 250 local jobs and generates about $225,000 in local tax revenue each year. Additionally, the Fair plays a crucial role in youth agricultural programs, including the local junior livestock program, which educates young people about the breeding, raising and grooming of farm animals. Each year the Fair hosts the annual Ag Mechanics Auction and the Junior Livestock Auction, which, together, raise more than half a million dollars for Nevada County youth in Agriculture. “The Fair is a foundational piece for young agriculturalists in Nevada County,” said Mathew. “Essentially, the Fair is fostering our next generation of food producers.”

The Nevada County Economic Resource Council (ERC) is a non-profit, economic development corporation. As a public/private partnership comprised of business, government, and education, it represents the County’s best efforts to support local job creation and economic opportunity. For further information about ERC, visit their website at www.ncerc.org.

For more information on the Nevada County Fair, visit their website at www.nevadacountyfair.com or call (530) 273-6217.

Welcome to the Nevada County Fair Blog!

2008-02-22T11:02:00.000-08:00

Win Free Tickets to the Fairground’s Event of Your Choice!
We have lots going on at the Nevada County Fairgrounds and we’re always looking for ways to let you know about these fun events. That’s why we’ve created this blog – to keep you informed about the happenings at the Fairgrounds and because we want to hear from you. We want to know what you think about the Nevada County Fairgrounds – what you love, your favorite memory, ideas, suggestions or general comments about the Fair and its events. Just for posting a comment on this blog, you could win two free tickets to the Nevada County Fair, the Draft Horse Classic or the Country Christmas Faire. You get to choose the tickets for the event that you’d like to attend. Each month, we’ll randomly choose a name from the blog for FREE tickets – so let us know what you think.

Terms and Conditions:
At the end of each month, we will randomly choose a name from the blog postings to win two free tickets to the Nevada County Fair, the Draft Horse Classic or the Country Christmas Faire. If your name is chosen, we will notify you through the blog and you may choose to have the tickets of your choice either mailed to you or to pick them up in person at the Nevada County Fairground’s Office in Grass Valley. Anonymous postings are not eligible for the drawing and postings using inappropriate language or slander will also be excluded from the contest.

Nevada County Fairgrounds

2012 Events at the Nevada County Fairgrounds

Fun at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in 2011

Winner of Fair Artwork Design Contest Announced

Win $250 in Artwork Design Contest

Donate A Can of Food, Receive $1 off Sunday's Admission Price to the Country Christmas Faire

HUELL HOWSER FEATURES THE NEVADA COUNTY FAIR

Contests, Costumes and a Cupcake Walks

HALLOWEEN FUN AT THE NEVADA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

Contest for the 2011 Nevada County Fair Theme

Halloween Fun at the Fairgrounds

BARN TOURS OFFERED AT THIS YEAR'S DRAFT HORSE CLASSIC

Enter Your Exhibits in the Harvest Fair at the Draft Horse Classic

Danny Kemp to be Inducted into the Nevada County Fair Hall of Fame

NEVADA COUNTY FAIR CELEBRATES DAY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Nevada County Fair and Food Bank of Nevada County Team Up to Feed Those in Need

NEVADA COUNTY FAIR TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Mutton Bustin' and Calf Scramble at the Nevada County Fair

Sponsor a Car in the Demolition Derby - and You Could Win $1,000 for Your Charity

Enter the Idol Competition at Nevada County Fair

Enter Your Exhibits in the Nevada County Fair: There's Still Time!

Nevada County Fair Competition Handbook Now Available

Draft Horse Classic and Harvest Fair: September 23 - 26, 2010

Fairgrounds Seeking Nominations for Nevada County Fair Hall of Fame

Gentle Giant Journal: Details and Information for the 2010 Draft Horse Classic

Draft Horse Classic Tickets on Sale Now

Fairgrounds Seeking Nominations for Fair Family of the Year

Nevada County Fair - August 11 - 15, 2010

Fairgrounds Receives Numerous Industry Awards

Mark Your Calendar!

Win $250 in Logo Design Contest

Donate a Can of Food and Receive $1 off Sunday's Admission to the Country Christmas Faire

Preparing for the Country Christmas Faire

Free Childcare Provided at Country Christmas Faire

Create a Gingerbread House and Win!!

Country Christmas Faire - November 27, 28, 29

Contests, Costumes a Cupcake Walk

Fairgrounds Foundation to Host Barn Raising Celebration, Halloween Event

Submit a Slogan for the 2010 Fair and You Could Win $100

World Class Lumberjacks to Perform at Draft Horse Classic

Draft Horse Classic Tickets on Sale Now!!

A Successful Nevada County Fair

Nevada County Fair - August 12 - 16

Entertainment Abounds: Arena Events, Live Bands, Magic Tricks, and Karaoke

Exciting Contests Happening Each Day of the Fair

Carnival Ride from Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch Featured at the Nevada County Fair

July's Winner!

Buy Your Fair Tickets Early and Save!

Body Art Competition at this year's Fair

World Famous Budweiser Clydesdales to Visit the Nevada County Fair

Meet the 2009 Fair Mascot - Scarlett O'Hare

Sponsor and Drive A Car in the Demolition Derby and You Could Win $1,000 for Charity

Do You Love to Sing? Idol Competition at the Fair!

June's Blog Winner

Name the Nevada County Fair's Mascot ....and WIN!

Nevada County Fair Competition Handbook Now Available

May's Blog Winner

Want to Enter Something in the Fair?

We're Hiring!

Post a Comment and You Could Win Free Tickets!

Win Free Tickets to a Fairgrounds' Event

2009 Events

Free Childcare Provided at Country Christmas Faire

Create a Gingerbread House and Win!

Country Christmas Faire - November 28, 29 and 30

Draft Horse Classic Dictionary

Blog Posting Ticket Winners!

A FAIR Perspective by Retiring CEO Ed Scofield

Going “Green” at the Nevada County Fair

Nevada County Fair’s 2008 Blue Ribbon Award

Entertaining and Informative Horse Demonstrations

ENTERTAINMENT ABOUNDS AT THE NEVADA COUNTY FAIR

IF YOU LOVE TO SING YOU CAN WIN BIG !!

NEVADA COUNTY FAIR TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Little Buckaroos Can WIN $$BIG BUCKS$$

BUSINESSES/ORGANIZATIONS CAN SPONSOR AND DRIVE IN THE DEMOLITION DERBY

FAMILY OF THE YEAR TO BE HONORED

NEVADA COUNTY FAIR EXTENDS ENTRY DEADLINE

Thank you from Fair CEO

MOTHER LODE HORSE SHOW RESULTS