It feels strange to think about something as summery as the county fair in the depths of winter. But the Santa Cruz County Fair has opened a contest to select the best theme for the 2026 Fair.
The theme should celebrate Santa Cruz’s essence “with a little red, white and blue sparkle in honor of the United States’ 250th birthday,” according to a media release.
Every year, the fair’s theme recognizes and pays tribute to Santa Cruz County’s agricultural history. Last fall, the county fair’s theme was “Hay Bales, Piggy Tales & Ewe!” The year before that, it was “Pioneer Days to Modern Ways,” and in 2023, it was “Home Grown and Locally Shown.”
Applicants can submit their theme in person at the fair office at 2601 East Lake Ave. in Watsonville on weekdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., via email to info@santacruzcountyfair.com, or by mail to Santa Cruz County Fair Theme Contest, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville 95076.
The deadline for entries is Jan. 13 at 5 p.m., and the winner will receive four free fair tickets and a free parking pass.
The 2026 Santa Cruz County Fair will be held Sept. 16-20.
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