August 11, 2005

The Santa Clara County Fair offered much in the way of food, exhibits, and animals for those who preferred to keep their feet on the ground, while $20 bought a bracelet and unlimited ride privileges all day for the more adventurous. Photo by Kymberli Brady.

2005 Santa County Fair deemed a success despite budget cuts

The 2005 Santa Clara County Fair featured shortened hours and was played out over only three days as opposed to the usual ten, however fair officials are giving it a thumbs up. Approximately 62,000 people visited the Fair this year, while last year 90,000 showed up to take a whirl on spinning rides and watch pie-eating contests.

“Based on the hours we kind of kept the fair as a family event,” said SCCF Marketing Director Bob Hartzell. “Last year we stayed open late and a lot of teenagers and adults came out to visit the carnival and to go the concerts. But overall, I think things went fairly well considering that two of the three days were very hot.”

	Light attendance afforded two brave attendees an exclusive ride aboard the Kamikaze Friday. Photo by Kymberli Brady.
	Five-year-old Elizabeth Aspeitia of San Jose had her eye on the cows, including one that obviously had its eye on her as well. Photo by Kymberli Brady.
	Kevin Lasater, front, took a break from the California Extreme Classic Arcade Show to take in some rides at the fair, including the Casino. Photo by Kymberli Brady.
	Shortly after Amanda Lash, left, and Emily Freitas took first and second place in the 4-H Market Goat competition, they were also given the titles of Grand and Reserve Grand Champions, respectively. Unlike the leaner Alpine or dairy goat varieties, judges look for shorter, more “meaty” animals. Both girls are from San Martin. Photo by Kymberli Brady.