Farming, Food, And Fascination At The Big Fresno Fair

FRESNO (KMJ) — The big times are back as the Big Fresno Fair starts up again for 2017. Described as the 5th largest event of its kind in California, around 650,000 attendees are expected through the gates over the course of this year’s run.

“We have quite few new exhibits this year, reveals Deputy Manager Lauri King. “I think one of the ones that we’re the most proud of is the new addition to the Fresno County Historical Museum: our Community Cultural Center.”

The 1,000 sq. ft. expansion is on the museum’s first floor. It features 76 iconic individuals from the Central Valley, who King says helped form the community. Entry to the museum is free for anyone with a ticket to the fair.

There are some hidden improvements too.

“We’ve done some things to the fairground the average person won’t see, with some electrical upgrades and restroom remodels.”

The food at the fair is a big draw for many, and this year’s creations are designed to please return visitors.

“We have some awesome new food booths. We have Eddie’s Asian Cuisine, which is an all Asian inspired fusion foods and they have amazing delicious food there.”

Also new is the Gingerbread Shop’s “Eton Mess Pudding,” Fabe’s Gelato’s “Gelato Piezookie” and “Gelato Donut Sandwich.”

“Of course Chicken Charlie is back with all of his crazy, crazy ideas,” adds King.

That includes new concoction “Krispy Kreme Chicken Sandwich Ice Cream Sandwich” and “Deep Friend Pork Loin Sandwich.”

Gates open at 11am Monday to Friday, and 10am on Saturday and Sunday. Gates close at 11pm Sunday to Thursday, and midnight Friday and Saturday. The event continues until Sunday October 15th.

Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired: