Sonoma County Fair

The Sonoma County Fair is running now until August 8. If you're interested in a good old-fashioned county fair with livestock, live music, horse racing, plenty of food, and all the exciting rides your kids will love, this is a great event.

I'm silly enough to enjoy the fudge making, the giant pickles, and the jaded Ginzu and juicer pitchmen. I might buy a crazy hat and I'll definitely check out the hot tubs, but the one thing I won't skip is my green spaghetti from Obleto's. That's a must have for my fair visit.

I love the chickens too, but they split time in their exhibit hall with the rabbits so I have to check the fair website to see when the different animals are there. The 4-H and FFA kids do a fantastic job with their livestock whether it's dairy cows, hogs, or sheep. I love walking through the barns watching the kids grooming their animals and hanging out with their friends. It's a reminder that many great things about America are still with us. Lazy summers at the fair. Kids working hard to be the best.

The music is great. Everyone has different tastes so the fair tries to have something for everyone. There's a small stage venue near the food where the music is free and lively. There's also nightly entertainment ranging from Charlie Musselwhite to Miranda Lambert. Tickets for these shows are an additional fee on top of fair admission.

If you're within an easy drive of Santa Rosa and want something fun to do, try the Sonoma County Fair.