August 9, 2007

Santa Clara County Fair crowds surpass last year

By Ashley Rodriguez
Times Intern

The Santa Clara County Fair has long been a trademark of summer in the South Bay, and this year was no different.

Madelyn Landi, 19, and Dallisa Garcia, 17, ride the giant hammer ride at the Santa Clara County Fair on Friday Aug. 3 in San Jose. Photos by Dan Miranda

While final attendance numbers have yet to be tallied for the Aug. 1-5 event at the county fairgrounds, large crowds and increased revenue indicate attendance numbers soared over last year’s 30,000.

Big-name performers such as Elvin Bishop and country star Jamie O’Neal seemed to help bring in the crowds. The areas around the stages were packed with people who said that they came to the fair just to see their favorite performers.

The music wasn’t the only act popular during the fair’s five days. The sea lion exhibit, a first for the fair, was a huge success with people of all ages. The most popular attraction for the children was none other than Crusty the Clown. The livestock and art exhibits were popular as well.

First time fair goers Theresa Tran and Rene Mesa sit in a tent while getting their portraits done by Shannon Bird of Oakley at the fair.

Director of marketing Steve Stagnaro had nothing but positive things to say about this year’s fair and he expressed confidence about the way it turned out. “Saturday and Sunday were a definite improvement over the previous year,” said Stagnaro.

Stagnaro also pointed out that the people he saw were constantly smiling and telling him that they finally feel optimistic about the fair’s future after years of watching it decline. “I had many people come up to me and tell me that they loved the fair this year,” he said. “It reminded them of the good old days.”

Despite a positive outlook from Stagnaro and many in attendance, there were some critical comments from people. Those with complaints said the fair has “lost its charm.” Longtime fair goers were disappointed to see the lack of vendors in tents along the walkways and the hometown feel that was once associated with the fair.

If the final count turns out as big as expected, there is hope the fair will stick around for years to come and continue improving and reminding many of the “good old days.”

—Photos by Dan Miranda