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Alameda County Fair
Rating Details »
Categories: Local Flavor, Active Life [Edit]
Alameda County Fairgrounds4501 Pleasanton Ave
Pleasanton, CA 94566
(925) 426-4600
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
56 reviews for Alameda County Fair
I LOVE THE FAIR!
Came twice this year, once on July 3rd and again on July 14th. July 3rd was fireworks night, and Night Ranger was playing the nightly concert. Best fireworks show I have seen in years, anywhere! Take a blanket and head to the area with all the animals and set up shop, stay till the end of the show. No need to hurry to beat traffic, it's not happening. The fair closed at 10pm, I live in San Ramon and made it home at 12 midnight due to the horrific parking lot fiasco! I came with my son, bff, sister, niece, and my bff's co-worker that night. We ate at Big Bubba's BBQ, got the tri-tip sandwich with corn on the cob. Yumm-o! The kids played some games and the ladies got a $12 massage. So worth it!
July 14th was a $2 Tuesday. Awesome! Evolution- A tribute to Journey was the concert that night. So cool! Went with the bff and her
co-worker. Did some adult drinking that night. woo hoo! Beers are $11 for the 22 ounce. Margarita's are weak, according to Krista T. :0)
Saw the concert, rode some rides, ate an 18 inch corn dog, watched some fools get hypnotized, thoroughly enjoyed the petting zoo, wanted to put the baby pot belly pig in my purse and take him home with me. Too cute!
$10 per person admission, $8 parking, food money, drink money, ride money, money money money. You can easily drop $100 on one trip to the fair, and that is for 2 people.
Tips:
(1) Park at Gate 12 for $8 and less traffic. There is a tram that comes around and will drive you right to the gate.
(2) Give yourself plenty of time if planning to attend a concert, the line is always super long to get into the stadium.
(3) Pack on the sunscreen
(4) Eat before you go and buy snacks there, food is super expensive
(5) Bring your own water and plenty of it. P-town is hot as hell in July!
(6) Bring a jacket and leave it in the car, just in case. It tends to cool down at night.
Get on the Alameda County Fair website before going, do your research. There is SO much to do there, and there's something for everyone!
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I took my daughter last year at the Alameda County Kids Faire and it was really, really hot. I told my myself that I will bring her again this year and guess what.... the weather is hot again (max is a 103 deg). I just wish that they will change the date when the weather is cooler like around 1st week of October. They are doing this fair for the kids anyway, why don't they think about the kids and their welfare. How can the kids enjoy the shows, their favorites cartoon characters if it's awfully hot. Like my daughter last year, she got sick because it was too hot.
That's why this year I just told my husband that we are going to pass and maybe try going next year, hoping and praying that they will change the date.
I like to give them 5 stars because i don't have any complaint regarding the food, rides, etc. The only complain that I have is THE DATE OF THE EVENT!!!!! That's why I just gave them 1 star. If they care about the kids and it's for the kids anyway THINK ABOUT THEM AND CHANGE THE DATE!!!!!
Man this place got expensive!!!! It's fun and all but the prices here are just out of control! I did NOT remember it being this expensive couple of years ago.
I loved the cute little pig races though. They're so adorable! And the food here is awesome! Fried twinkies and oreos!!! Besides the expensive prices, this place is pretty fun.
Three words: little piggy races. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
More words: sweltering heat, kiddie rides, games where you can win glaringly ugly stuffed animals, old school photo booths, horse racing, roller derby, steer/goats/hairless sheep, baby chicks/ducks/hens for sale, unbelievably soft bunnies to pet, mechanical bull riding, funnel cakes, cotton candy, monster dogs, carmel apples, kid tractor pulls, hot tub vendors, and cheesy flea market to as-seen-on-tv hawkers.
Final words: nostalgic fun!
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How can you not love the fair? If you don't, consider yourself a soulless killjoy. :)
We parked free in downtown Pleasanton and walked. Saved some cash that way. We also bought the newspaper at the front gate for .50 and got the coupons with all sorts of discounts on food.
Our firsts today included:
*Eating mini dougnuts while watching the horses race and hearing new words that I don't want the kids to repeat!
*Watching piggie racing
*Seeing a pig get shaved by a teenager with an Ipod
*Riding a mechanical bull
*More white hats and belt buckles than you can shake a stick it (it was la dia de famalia today!)
*Seeing the joy on my kids' faces as they came down the giant slide
Nobody cried, puked or got lost, so it was a good, good day.
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Things that I saw, experienced and ate on my trip to the fair this year.
18 inch corn dog (And yes, I did eat one.)
Mullets
Delicious Funnel Cakes
"Homies Forever" Banner
Everything is retarded expensive
The Old Gyro stand where I got my first job that only lasted for 2 days
Working replica model of The Top Gun Ride at Great America
Delicious jams and jellies
Hot model railroad set up with working drive in movie theater
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It has been YEARS since I've been to the fair! We came on $2 Tuesday as soon as they opened. It was super-hot, but a lot of folks were out because of the $2 tickets.
My goodness, the parking is steep, $8 per car! Great reason to carpool :)
My daughter and I both loved the petting zoo, there were pygmy goats, pigs and deer to name a few. One of the deer had a penchant for eating clothing, not sure why! We had lots of fun here and only wished it opened before noon!
The fairgrounds are well-equipped with real bathrooms, plenty of shady areas (there are even trees in the parking area).
The biggest laugh for me was all the kiddie rides that claimed to be from MJ's Neverland Ranch...hmm not exactly a statement that made me want to hop on!
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BUY TICKETS ONLINE!
Skipped the long line to buy at the booths and walked right up to the metal detectors!! NICE!
-Got in early enough to get third row parking!
-Saw piglets that were hours old!
-Saw calf that was born earlier that morning!
-Smelled that smell you smell out in Stockton/Tracy.
-Saw the Michael Jackson Neverland ride.
-Ate cake made by the 4-H group ($1.50 a slice YUM)
-Ate tamales at by the WInner that was picked AFTER I ordered them!
-Ate or shared a brick of fries.
-Ate Deep fried Snickers
-Ate Corn on the Cob
(Can you hear Tempelton singing in the background SMORGABORG ORGABORG?)
-Contimplated or dreamed of buying a Swim/Spa!
-Saw the crafts made by local people that inspire me to enter my goods next year!
All in All had a great day and am looking forward to going again Friday!
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1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/30/2007
"The Fair is a Virtual Smorgasbord, Orgasbord."
Tempelton Charolett's Web
That's why I go to Fairs.… Read more »
Fun!
Fun!
Fun!
Fairs are fun..yup.
My family has been to some of the most spectacular fairs
around the country. In comparison, the Alameda County fair
isn't large and we get the "same 'ole, same "ole" vibes here,
yet, we still have fun.
Fun is pertinent.
What I think is extremely cool is that building filled with arts
of many mediums, which were created by kiddos during
the school year. My ultra-cool son had award winning architectural
draft designs on display at the fair for a couple years...yippee.
And yippee for every soul who has had their work on display here.
It is a blast seeing the kids with items on exhibit getting excited
and taking pride in their work.
It's simply cool this fair has an appreciate for artistic talent...
Whew-Wee!
Oh yeahhhhhhhhhhhh...fair food is fun food.
Isn't it a life requirement to indulge in that fun food once and awhile?
Pretty certain about that, folks.
Blah, blah, blah...sure it is a little spendy, yet special days filled with
fun are priceless...make the most of your visits here.
We looooooooooove the cute animals on exhibit...great variety of
cutie-pies there.
Over the years, many awesome free...yes FREE concerts have been
hosted here. My kool kids have been to many of those concerts.
Honestly, for the admission & parking fees, it's a heck of a deal if
you're going to a concert.
Tidbit regarding rides tickets...
you can purchase a full day's worth of rides via the fair site.
Unlimited rides for $25 from Tues-Fri.
And, for $28 the unlimited rides on Sat. and Sun.
If you have ride-loving kiddos or you're a big kid...go for it and
partake in that offer.
http://www.alamedacoun...
See ya at the fair!
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Took my daughter to the fair mainly for the petting zoo and the animal attractions as she already is a huge animal lover. Never have I seen a young child so infatuated with cows, pigs, goats, hell they even had a baby kangaroo which was pretty awesome. The only downside is somewhere down the line I am going to be asked for a pony. I know its gonna happen and there is no stopping it. Either that or a kangaroo actually.
The rest of the fair was pretty fun as well. The food and drinks were good(and expensive of course). The other attractions were fun and entertaining along with some of the other exhibits. Obviously, most of the fair was a money vacuum with an assortment of useless garbage you never thought in a million years you would need and still never need yet they tried to sell it to you anyways.
I will be back next year for sure.
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Another great Alameda County Fair!!!
Ok, just so that you know, Wednesday Senior Citizens get in for free!!
Here are some of the delights of this year's fair:
Charlie Daniels Band played "Devil Went Down To Georgia
Fantastic photos in the art displays
love the collection building
at least seven booths want to sell you waterless cookware
1.50 cake slices from the 4-H booth
pulled pork sandwiches and coleslaw from Bubba's
Hawaiian Wings from the Bud Light booth
corn dog on a stick slathered with mustard
a 4.00 diet pepsi worth every penny
pink cotton candy brought home to Dr. R.
taking a photo in the photo booth with mom and dad
strolling through the fiber arts building to look at the quilts
place setting contest at the Fiber Arts building
the lit-up rides on the long walk back to the car
driving home with a happy heart
Hey! Your childhood and a sh**load of fairfood is calling your name,
better get to the fair!
(omg, I didn't even see the pig races, I guess I have to go back!)
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Went on the 4th of July and the crowds were good size but scored an excellent parking space. Arrive around 1.5 before closing. Checked out the animals, the food and homemade contests and the idiots booths. The fireworks were very good, lasted a long time. Surprised people still go to the fair.
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For all you "snobs" that are too scared to leave your la-la land known as San Francisco, listen up. The Alameda County Fair is the BEST summertime event in the Bay Area.
A simple $10 ticket will get you access to some of the most offbeat entertainment that your imagination can think of.
I mean, where else can you go take a picture of some live pigs then step about 20 feet away and order a pork corn dog! lol
Although I'm getting a little tired of the Roller derby, the Pig Races are quickly becoming the hit of the fair. The baby chicks, ducks, and piglets will always be a hit.
So, if you're willing to get out of your comfort zone, I'm sure you will have a pleasant surprise at the fair.
Also, the musical act EN VOGUE rocked the house!
The only downside to the fair is you have to be aware of the weather before you go. The fair is located in the city of Pleasenton,CA and it can get EXTREMELY HOT in the summer months. So get prepare!
ALSO, if you decide to go see one of the free musical acts be aware that the lines form early and if you decide to go at the last minute... You may not get in. You've been warned.
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Went to the Fair tonight with just my wife and I and we had a great time! It was not busy at all and the smells and sound just brought back great memories. Although its some what pricey, its great to come to the county fair. Adult tickets were $10 a piece and parking was $8 per car.
I had to have my standard GIANT corn dog and a Turkey Leg. Both were awesome but I just couldn't get myself to finish my turkey leg (I'm getting old)!!! My wife had grilled corn which was delicious and dipp'n dots (yes, what a nutritious dinner) but what the heck...we're at the fair! The rides look like a lot of fun but we didn't partake. The vendors had a lot of cool gadgets and inventions to sell along with your standard crap as well.
I thought the lay out of the fair was much better than last year. There wasn't as many "crap" vendors and things were spread out a bit more. There was a large police presence and I definitely felt safe while I was there.
My favorite part was the live stock area. Lots of cool farm animals you can see, touch and SMELL!!!
Definitely will be back for En Vogue and the Journey Tribute Band!
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My better half has a thing for animals, despite being allergic to everything with fur, so we found ourselves at the county fair on a sweltering Saturday afternoon.
Lots of pay parking lots set up near the entrances, though we ended up driving a few extra blocks to park near downtown and just hike over to the fairgrounds. $10 an adult head for entrance, which seems fair, I guess.
Lots of food stands set up inside, though prices seemed a little high and we had just come from a dim sum lunch with friends. The lemonade was pretty good though - not too sweet or sour - and I was amused by the plastic collector's cup that you get with a large.
We bypassed all the rides and focused on the animals first, visiting the rabbits and chickens in the small animal exhibit, then heading over to see the various cows, sheep and goats penned up and looking quite lethargic on the 106 F afternoon. The pig race was cute and the petting zoo was probably our favorite part of the fair - a bunch of goats and pigs (adults and babies) plus a lonesome donkey stuck in the corner. The piglets were quite cute and were wagging their tails like puppies. The baby goats were pretty cute too, but one decided to make a meal of my girlfriend's dress.
Afterwards, walked through some exhibits like the gardening and model railroad, plus meandered through the exhibition hall. All in all, a decent way to spend $20, but I could do without the heat.
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Came here on the $2 Tuesday with a group of friends. I must say, this place is pretty huge. We went towards the evening, so the weather was bearable by that time. Food was alright, had the 18inch corn dog and some garlic fries and curly fries.
The rides are a bit pricey $3-4 for a carousel ride. Wow...
The wrist band for the unlimited rides were $25 and it's worth it if you ride more than 5 rides.
+ It's beautiful at night. The rides are all lit up.
+ Free parking couple a blocks away (residential area)
+ Discounts on entrance fees during certain days
- The garlic fries we got were sitting out, but a friend of ours purchase a bit later and got a fresh batch
- Where the livestock are kept looked depressing compared to the San Mateo County Fair.
- Bunnies that were on sale look awfully sad and hot.
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OMG.Traffic leaving the fair on the 3rd was horrible,disorganized,you name it.They had one gate open.One.
We waited around for an hour or so after the concert ended [we saw Night Ranger] purposely to avoid some of the traffic.Lo and behold,the traffic is backed up like a mother.It took us an hour and a half to move less than half a mile to get out of the fair gate.I hope the receive multiple complaints and do something about this next year.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/2/2009
My favorite place to go in the summertime.Even moreso than the Boardwalk in Santa Cruz.Although the… Read more »
A great fair, and hands down the best garden displays of all the fairs around the bay. How they keep the flowers looking so good in the 95 degree heat is amazing, but the cut flower displays fare as well. After I drool over the gardens, the fine art and photography show is the next must see; the variety of art is always interesting. I would suggest the next stop would be the collections display. The variety of what people collect is mind boggling.
Then there is the midway, commercial displays, foods stands, livestock displays, free concerts, and all the hokey things that make fairs so much fun. There were masses of people, from young children, to oldsters in their motorized scooters there seems to be something for everyone.
What is nice about the Alameda fairgrounds is that there are mature trees that give some shade. Also if you like to enter the many contests at the fair you can do it easily on line.
And how could I forget, there are fireworks, I not sure how good their show is, the last time I saw them here I was 17, in a car on the top of a stopped Ferris Wheel looking over the midway as the fireworks exploded all around me. That memory is etched in my mind and it could never be equaled at this fair, and besides I had to rush off to the Marin county fair
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It was just like my childhood days. A fun night at the County Fair. Funnel cakes, Ferris Wheels, a performance by Solange, did I mention funnel cakes? Fried food galore. Food will run you a good penny.. so I'd grab a bite beforehand and then have a snack inside. Rides are expensive.. $10 bucks for two people to ride the Ferris Wheel. holy moly. But it was a fun night out. Havn't been to a fair or carnival for years so it was a nice trip down memory lane.
Parking is expensive. There's several homemade parking lots that charge less. I parked down some street and around the corner and it was $7. Closer lots were charging $10-20. There's also a train near by that you can take.
I come to this fair every year...the main reason is the great concerts they always have and all for $10 entry. I have seen Boys II Men numerous times, came to see Night Ranger the other night. There's never any fights, people are friendly, the animals are fun to see, good food, great firework show. Its hot during the day and cold at night so bring a jacket or at least have one in your car so you can go out and get it. FUN FUN FUN for everyone!
cons: This time the parking was horrible...we sat in the parking lot for 1.5hrs the staff seemed confused until a citizen got out of their car to direct traffic cuz they were sick of waiting. Its not usually this way though. Another cons is how weak the margaritas are...
Crazy furry rabbits. Fresh strawberry funnel cake. Karaoke-like singing performances. 4-H livestock on display. Horse racing. "As-seen-on-tv" products for sale. Classic photo booths. Pig races. Rollercoasters. Handmade quilts. Reptiles... All of these things makes the Alameda County Fair an intersting place to go, even if you've been going for the past 20 years as I have. (eek. I think that makes me old.)
This year, the fair has changed things up a bit. The local arts and crafts competition diplays were moved to two smaller buildings. And the large hall that use to display everything is filled with more vendors. They are missing their usual fudge vendor which made me frown. There is a new vendor that has okay fudge. The area by the livestock seems to have lots more to see. And, by the entrance they have all these inflattable game areas that I didn't actually get to see put to use.
It's good ole fashion fun and is especially nice if you're living in an urban area.
Things to know: $8 for parking. $10 for adult tickets. Ozomatli performing on July 16! Hasn't had 4th of July fireworks on the 4th for over 10 years, but had them on the 3rd this year.
It was an ocean of mullets,and toothless carnies, but no 100 pound rat this year. : ( I left my dignity at the corndog stand and i saw 2 ex-girlfriends looking beautiful and happy. I came to see Night ranger but somehow missed it ( beer). This is a great fair, no fights, no hassles, cheap ,greasy ,delicious food and maybe next year if i don't get too depressed/drunk at seeing people i once loved i'll get to finally see eddie money/great white/tesla or whatever hasbeen 80's hair band. http://ratconference.c... - this is a different hundred pound rat, i guess those fat rodents really get around.
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The fair was a combination of international food faire, carnival, flea market and petting zoo. Oh and there's horse races. It was awesome. Entrance fees are $10 for adults and $6 for kids. The unlimited rides carnival bracelets are $28. If you prefer tickets, the tickets are $1 each and most rides take 4-5 tickets each. While we were in line for tickets, a lady came along who was selling tix for 50 cents each. Boy were we relieved. It was very warm, crowded, and the kids had a blast. Some of the carnies looked like they had a long night, but we got a kick out of their antics. TIP: Bring your own bottled water and snacks. That way you won't spend any more than a few dollars on food. Definitely worth going.
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Got 2 free tickets to the fair (sorry its a secret and I cant tell ya or Id have to kill ya) So we get to Pleasanton and I never park in the main parking lot but on the other side. Pay $10 for what would be normally free parking (prices range from $10 to $13 across the RR tracks then $20) (which I think is a rip) so we went to the gates and I was getting ready to pay for my sons way in when we were approached by a couple that had military id's (guess with those you and a guest can enter the fair for free) So hubby & I went behind the guy as my son walked in front of me as we passed the metal detectors and I thanked the person and he was off back to outside the gates. Guess they wanted to bring as many free people in as possible. So that saved me some money. That made me happy.
So off to the fun. I had some coupons which I got on line and was able to save here and there and got free things throughout the fair.
We were off to get the yummy corn dogs.
Went into the Exhibition Hall and then to my fav, the animals. These are probably the main reason I enjoy going to the fair year after year.
Checking out the exhibits are interesting, especially the science fair projects - gives me great ideas on what my son can do the next year for his project at school. LOL
Love it that there are actual toilets/sinks that are available to use. I just hate port-a-pots. pew! Water fountains are plentiful as well (good way to get free water so bring a water bottle or 2 into the fair and just keep refilling throughout the day. Cause at $3 a pop it can really add up)
We usually avoid the carnival area. So I cant really comment on that part. But I'm sure its fun.
The fair is full of yummy foods and has plenty of shady lawned/benches/tables to hang out and rest at. It was a real nice day today, for once it wasn't 90* out so we were sweating up a storm.
OH and if you're looking for a inexpensive treat head out to the shopping hall & look for the 4-H kids that sell slices of cake for $1.50. They have cookies, milk, ice teas and other things as well.
During the week they have the fair has specials like $2 kid Tues, senior citizens in free on Wed & kids free Fri.
So go and enjoy yourself!
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Throughout the many years of living here in the Tri-valley I have never attended the County fair. Went last weekend to see a concert. $10 per person plus $8 bucks for parking will get you in the Fair and see the concert, not bad at all. Very surprised how the entire fair is set up (rides, games, food, ect). The venue for the concert is an outdoor amphitheater with nice seating and a good sound system. Most definitely will be back!
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This is by far the best fair in northern California, I think. And yes it's expensive but it's a goddamn fair. They're not shoving corndogs or plastic alien dolls down your throat, have some self control. Some of the exhibits are cool and if it's too hot outside you can find refuge in the air conditioned expo halls. I also got some nail art done for free. And the rides still make me nauseous but I go on them regardless. GO TO THE FAIR, ITS FUN!
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Some things stand out as "firsts" you're likely never to forget...a first kiss, first trip somewhere..or if you're like me, the first time I've seen a corndog as big my freakin arm!
Really, who needs to eat a corndog that's a foot and a half long? How had this great idea? Who thought it would be a good idea to serve fries, (incredibly greasy) in brick form?
Welcome to the Alameda county fair; a junk food paradise! I had every intent of eating the arm size corndog; but chickened out at the last minute after doing possible calorie calculations in my head. The fair remains unchanged from when I was a kid; the basic layout is still the same with the midway, expo halls, livestock area and kiddy rides.
It's kind of sad, but the biggest highlight of the day for me was seeing the nine 4 day piglets going to town on their poor passed out mom. Little things in life...
AAA still has discount tickets, family packs and ride coupons available!
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i always come here every year. it's cheap and affordable to go to. plus it's close if you live in the SF Bay Area. i usually check out the gardens and the arts&crafts building from the bay area schools first. the food is great. i recommend getting a bbq chicken sandwich and a malt shake. also try the cake from the 4h club. it's usually sold where the arts&crafts are.
i also visit the race track, even if you aren't into gambling, it's still a sight to see. the farm animals are must to see. it's a great experience and great entertainment.
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Okay my family grew up at the fair. We all showed sheep or pigs with 4-H our whole lives. We have very fond memories of the fair.
My hubby, son, sister, bil, brother and friends all went yesterday (7/3) yeah it was busy and hot, but we had a great time. My hubby brews beer and entered it in the fair. This is his first ever fair entry and is super excited that he got 2nd in his category.
I wish the 4-H area was more active, 10 years ago the barn was buzzing! The Young CA building was turned into I don't know what, but not what it used to be. It was filled with crap stalls selling more crap. We were pleased to see that the cake booth is still there. A woman laughed at us when said we were showing our age when we said it used to be .50 for a slice and now it's $1.50. LOL
The Alameda Country Fair is something everyone should go to. Just make a day trip of it. Yes you pay for parking, and entry, but don't you at all fairs? Be smart, buy your tickets online!
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Growing up in Pleasanton and for a good portion of that time, living near the fairgrounds, the Alameda County Fair was a huge part of my life and added some much needed excitement to my summers.
Boy, have things changed! No longer do they have the 4th of July fireworks show, the rides seems to have degraded (or I have grown up), the food is much more expensive, the people are more Oakland and the parking is ridiculous. I pity the poor families who have to take their kids there and drop a couple hundred bucks with just a 50 cent stuffed animal to show.
I am not bitter....
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For a smaller fair, this one is quite fun and provides for a few good hours of entertainment (more if you're willing to shell out money for the rides). Highlights included the pig races, the good / bad karaoke in the late afternoon, the various animal exhibits, the good quality, inexpensive plants for sale, and the overpriced greasy fair food. The price of admission to the fair is a bit steep (to save money, buy tickets in advance and take bart instead of driving), but it's a fun way to get a little bit country amidst the urban bay area.
We had a great time the other day at the Alameda county fair. We got to ride a ride that was bought from Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch.
We'll be back again next year ;-)
I love my wife. She is totally my best friend even lately when we hate each other from 3-6am in the morning as we argue over who should wake up to feed/change the baby. She is taking on this "Mom" thing with flying colors and while we both like being parents she is the one in the relationship who is constantly reminding me that her and I need to find time without the baby for just the two of us. I'm a lucky guy.
My wife is also a fucking maniac when she pushes a stroller around. I don't know what comes over her but when she gets two hands on our little Graco stroller she will knock an old lady down if they get in her way. Actually, to be exact she will knock an old African American lady down if she gets in her way.
Last week we attended the Alameda County fair and I don't know if it was her anxiety about the heat, babies first trip out of the house, the long lines, the porta potties, but whatever it was she decided to plow right into the back of this old Black lady who did cut our path off but regardless - then this happened.
Lady - Why don't you watch where you're going
Wife - Why don't you not step in front of me.
(An apology would have worked on both ends here but........)
Lady - I've got the Diabetes
Wife - I don't care. I hope your foot falls off.
Lady - Bitch
Wife - Why you walking away? What did you say to me?
So now before we go out I make sure my wife hasn't hidden a shank in the bottle carrier on the side of the stroller. My son is gonna be a bad ass thanks to his mother and that makes me happy as I was a little fancy boy until .....well.....yeah......I know.
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This county fair has everything you want in a county fair:
* Free admission for kids 5 and under
* More farm animals than your city mind can comprehend: cows, pigs, goats, sheep, bunnies, fancy roosters, and more.
* Model train room for the child that is not interested in farm animals.
* Pony rides
* All the midway rides you want: merry go-round, ferris wheel, roller coaster, tea cups, etc.
* Your standard toss-the-ball, pop-the-balloon midway games
* Beer and wine garden
* Horse racing
* Overpriced food galore, including soft-serve ice cream cones taller than your child's face. Bonus: lots of picnic tables in the shade!
* Country music playing on multiple stages
* Semi-retired musical acts
* Surprisingly clean restrooms!
It was everything I promised the kids it would be. Thanks!
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I was actually promoting at one of the booths here so I got to see what this place was all about.
There is a lot of parking here and the cool part is that they have a shuttle service for each parking lot. NICE! If you are observant, you'll notice that there are colored lines throughout the fairgrounds. Those lines will take you to wherever you want to be. This place was PACKED with stuff to do. There was horse racing/betting, rides of all sorts, multiple zoos, carnival games, amphitheater with a different show each day, souvenir shops, promotional booths, and my favorite....... LOTS OF FOOD!!!!!!!~!~##@%#!$%#!^%#@!%$#@!$@%^!@#%#@!%$#!
I had a beef tri-tip sandwich from Big Bubba's Bad BBQ which was sooooooo good. No sauce necessary. I also got a banana split and strawberry funnel cake which was one of the best I've ever had. One piece of advice... never go to a fair alone. All I did, besides work, was eat! Though the lines were long for most of the food places, the wait was always surprisingly short. Fast service.
One thing that really annoyed me were most of the workers who were damn redneck hicks. They are truly rude. If they got rid of all the damn hicks, this place would be so much better. Still, this is a fantastic place to bring your family. There's something for everyone here... really, there is!
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The fair is coming!
6/22 - 7/8
Other than Chinese new year, the Alameda County Fair has got to be my most anticipated continuous two week span marked on the calendar. I remember my parents used to take me when I was a wee little lad, and I've been hooked ever since.
The Alameda County Fair is the last of the Bay Area incarnations to capture the essence of what county fairs are all about. The other ones held in San Mateo and San Jose are set in the middle of the urban jungle, and don't really retain any of the characteristics of the original events from back in the days of yore, which were meant to showcase farming and agriculture mixed in with some good old family fun.
Pleasanton itself isn't necessarily unaltered, rustic countryside, but the location of the fairgrounds, in a wide open, flat setting, decorated with ample greenery, gives the impression that you are actually somewhere in the Midwest, where county fairs seem to have taken root.
In addition to getting up close and personal with the award winning livestock, swine, steer, and cattle, how about dropping a dime or two on legendary jockey Russell Baze at the racetrack; sampling the most classic of fair cuisine - funnel cake, chocolate dipped banana, and cotton candy; or browsing many of the "infomercial" booths peddling some of the newest, innovative products to hit the market?
Furthermore, there is plenty of live entertainment, including local rap and rock artists, pig racing, a nationally recognized hypnotist, ever so daring Chinese acrobats, BMX and skateboard tricksters, and of course, the main pavilion for the headlining superstars.
I was blessed with the opportunity to work at the fair two years ago, and was able to view practically every single concert. Some of the performance highlights included the star studded likes of Jaci Velasquez (I even got a hug from her!), Diana DeGarmo, ConFunkshun, Starship, Tracy Lawrence, and *gasp* Raven Simone. This year's lineup promises to be just as great, if not better.
Also, big ups to my boys, Suave, the illest R&B accapella group west of the Mississippi. They were one of the daily acts, and my booth was literally a stone's throw from their stage. Although I probably heard them croon over a hundred times, I never got sick of their shows, and even copped the album after it was all said and done. Hopefully, they will be re-signed to give it another go this year. They are definitely my "must-see" recommendation to everyone.
And what would a county fair be without the carnival and midway? Based on my observation, it can be a very romantic place at night. For the fellas, the tried and true Ferris wheel can do no wrong, but what better way to win over a girl's heart than to show off your prowess on the games of skill? Young and old alike, every single female I have seen walking around the premises with her arms full of stuffed animals has nothing but a fat grin from ear to ear, bragging to everyone out there, "Yeah, that's right! My man loves me!" Since I used to work the games section at Great America, I know many of the dirty, secret techniques on how to beat the system, but unfortunately, I haven't had anyone to pass on my winnings to all these years other than my baby sister. Needless to say, by now, her room would just about put Noah's Ark to shame.
Although I would have loved to work the fair again this year, I don't think my company will be sponsoring a booth, so I guess I'll have to pay my way in just like all the common folk, which is just as well. For the measly cost of admission, I can't think of a better way to spend a summer afternoon, being whisked away to a distant land without ever having to leave the Bay Area.
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I haven't been to the Alameda County Fair since... highschool! What kept me away all those years? I'm not really so sure... but, having recently been to the Pirate Festival and after trekking up to Infineon, we decided it was about time to give ACF a(nother) try. First of all, if you are going to any type of fair or festival which requires tickets, you can usually get a discount by purchasing them in advance or by going through some type of group. Second of all, make sure to bring CASH! You are in a better bargaining position if you can actually put the green stuff in their hot little hands.
In this case, I forgot both! We missed out on the pre-sale tickets, but were still able to go through a friend's homeowner's association, and we arrived at the fair with very little green. We didn't buy much anyhow, mainly indulged in food and drinks, including the requisite of fried foods and alcohol. We had fried fish, fried shrimp, fried clams, fried zucchini, fried potatoes (the French and curly kind)... ooohhh, and of course corn dogs, sausage links, and funnel cake. At the wine garden, we tried a rose, which was quite yummy. My only regret is that I didn't note the label and now have no idea what I had... oh well, c'est la vie!
Unfortunately we missed seeing the racing pigs, but we did get to see the adorable newborn baby animals in the barn. We played some expensive games, rode an expensive carousel ($4 for my daughter + $1 for me to stand next her), and walked out with a hose nozzle, shammies, and a big stuffed Nemo.
I haven't been to the county fair since I was a little kid and my friend had free passes so that's was reason enough for me to go since I didn't have to pay $10 entrance fee. I know I'm a cheapie but that's more money for me to spend on the yummy fair food and rides.
Parking was $8 per car and they have a little tram truck that picks you up and takes you the entrance. It was hot outside and I was feeling lazy so what the heck, I hopped on. It was bit of a bumpy ride but the breeze felt like heaven on my skin. I didn't have to wait in the long ticket lines since we already had tickets which was a plus.
When we got in the fair, there was so much to do but everything was so darn expensive. There were so many food vendors and smells that I didn't know which way to go. This place had everything from garlic fries, corn dogs, hot links, you name it, they had it. Everyone's food look good too and I found myself longing after every plate that passed me.
We spent most of our time at the Kid's park which I think needs a lot of work. The folks that are working at the game stations are not the nicest folks and are all trying to scam you. This one guy from the dart balloon game looked like he just woke up with a bad hangover with red eyes and all as he told my friend that she had to pay him $40 and not $7. He was out of his mind. I paid $2 to win a goldfish which I guess isn't too bad but you know you could go to Walmart to buy them for $.25. I guess you pay for the joy of winning. There's the cheap part of me talking again.
It gets pretty hot here so don't forget the sunblock. If you buy ride tickets. buy the $50 for 80 tickets to get the most bang for your buck. If you buy the tickets as single, they are a buck a piece and most rides are at least 3-4 tickets. Also if your kid is not at least 42 inches tall, you'll be paying extra to ride with your child.
Even without paying an entrance fee today, I blew $70 at this place. A little to pricey for my cheap self.
Had a great time at the fair as always even though it was a bit hot today. Me and my girl got in free because it's military appreciation weekend. We headed right for her favorite corn dog stand and enjoyed some delicious deep fried goodness on a stick. After that it was time for a gyro which was eh. The tzaziki sauce was really weak and basically just flavorless yogurt and almost ruined the whole thing. After that it was a veggie egg roll which was tasty. The indoor areas were pretty jammed packed and it was sometimes hard to navigate the narrow isles although it's always fun to see the Sham-Wow demo or watch a hood get set on fire and then look! WOW, no damage whatsoever to the finish! IT'S A MIRACLE! I bought 25 cans of Miracle Wax on the spot. My favorite demo was the Ultimate Salsa maker. It's kind of like a hand held food processor. The guy made some good looking salsa in about 15 seconds. Maybe I'll pick that up next time. We didn't go on any rides but the Vomitron is up and running so I might go next time. I did lose money as always at the shooting gallery in the Midway. AKA games that you can't win at. Next outing I want some curly fries, some Bubbas Bad BBQ, maybe a turkey leg.
Alameda County Fair
Location: Midwest.
Cost: 2 dollah tuesdays! :) (but add $8 for parking ...total sadface)
Phrase to sum up the night: A Night of "Firsts"
1. First Funnel Cake - mmmm, strawberries, whipped cream, and powdered sugar! Waaaay sweet but it was alright shared with someone else and my new stuffed animal brady :D. Still, next time I think I'll skip the MOUNTAIN of whipped cream and powdered sugar and just get strawberries and cake :)
2. First Mechanical Bull Ride - Whoa there nelly! I guess I'm just a rootin' toootin' cowgirl now! :) My hands totally hurt afterwards, probably because I'm a 'tard and didn't put on a glove, but at least the man controlling the bull was nice to me and didn't throw me off immediately. This was probably the highlight of the night! Glad I did it! :)
3. First Hypnotist Show - Funny, but got old a little bit quickly. I was more interested in the Ferris Wheel halfway through the show. :)
And now, for the other fun things available at the fair! :)
1. Ferris Wheel - hehe, cheesy and all, but a nice relaxing way to round out the "fair" experience - especially my first one! (see the running theme of this review?)
2. B&W Photobooths! :) - I love these things soooo much! For some reason when I think fair, i think photobooths, ferris wheel and cotton candy! :)
3. Animals - nice to see all the farm animals and cool gadgety mechanics - the apple peeler! But really, the smell kinda threw me off :)
4. Food - yes, I had a gajillion calorie way overpriced corndog, but I was schmungry, and it was satisfying enough! :) Missed out on my cotton candy, but I guess the funnel cake more than made up for my sugar rush! :)
Last but not least:
Theres a whole bunch of things to do at the fair, and its a nice way to spend some time with friends and family, I guess its a great way to "experience" a bit of the heartland in the middle of the big city!
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