2017 San Diego County Fair- "Where the West is Fun"- Part One, Before it opens

mmm-yoso!!is primarily a food blog.  Today's post is about anticipated food consumption and a summer tradition, the San Diego County Fair.  As usual, Cathy is writing about this event; Kirk isn't around and Ed (from Yuma) is in Yuma.  

Link to Part Two

Later today (4 p.m.) the official opening of the San Diego County Fair will occur.  Tomorrow morning (at 7:30), in Downtown San Diego, there will be a Cattle Drive to promote the Fair theme of "Where the West is Fun".  I've been at the Fairgrounds watching the preparations for this, the 6th largest County Fair in the United States. Here are a few photos and links of what to expect this year. 

 The front gate is set up.  The statue of Don Diego, Fair Ambassador, is appropriately dressed. The historic clock tower has been moved to the front entrance area after repairs. 
The Midway was repaved a couple of weeks ago in anticipation of the Fair, the race season and Autumn Breeders Cup and is now set up, with the far West end ferris wheel is in sight when you walk in.  
  Chicken Charlie's corner, at the first right off the Midway, was set up in its usual location, before some other food booths got here (and Chicken Charlie's has an additional location on the Midway this year). 
The first left off the Midway is also set up.  The entrance to Bing Crosby Hall (filled with the latest gadgets, goodies and items you never knew you needed) is at the end of this food filled corridor. 
   The Plaza de Mexico is set up, awaiting so many daily events. That buildings next to and behind the Plaza house the Fair entries and events.  Go up to the second floor, 
 and you are greeted to Home and Hobby, what I consider to be the 'heart' of the Fair.
The Preserved Foods have been judged and are on display. 
 As have all the craft entries Two days ago, baked goods were brought in to be judged.  Ribbons and prizes have been awarded. 

There is so much to see and do at the Fair. This is a link to some of the new events.

 It doesn't have to be expensive.  This is a local news link to deals and discounts. (You can buy the multi day entrance pass ($26) until July 3, because paying for it is less expensive than paying admission two times. 

But, I know you are wondering about the foods here.   I noticed a few items which are not listed in this newspaper article and will be reporting on my finds in Part 2; I know that bacon wrapped cactus and sarsaparilla anything will be on my radar as well as deep fried octopus. I had also heard that the cauliflower sandwich (third photo from bottom in this linked post  )was back and if it is, there will be a purchase.In any case, enjoy the start of summer and the 2017 San Diego County Fair!.  It's going to be a good one. 

2017 San Diego County Fair website June 2-July 4 (closed all Mondays except July 3 and the first three Tuesdays)

Deals and Discounts (Fair website version)

Deals and Discounts (Local news version)

What's new at the Fair?

New foods at the 2017 San Diego County Fair

Comments

[Soo @ hungryones]

So strange seeing the fair empty of humans. Thanks for the preview!

[Cathy]

I just noticed the lack of people in my photos, Soo! The blue sky photos were on May 19, and a lot wasn't set up yet...but the gray sky was yesterday morning and there were people setting up, training and doing so many final set ups. The parking lot was quite full with workers. The oreviews hopefully give an idea of what to expect.

[caninecologne]

Excellent post Cathy! I love seeing how it looks before the crowds. It's so strange not to see the clock tower anymore too but at least it was saved and relocated. Looking forward to that cauliflower sandwich and maybe even the octopus, fried of course. As always, I look forward to the home and hobby sections (the collections are always so interesting).

[Cathy]

Bacon wrapped cactus and beignet on a stick, cc! I'm investigating for the unadvertised secret items and deals- no mention of the 17Hands specials or that meat and cheese box in the wine garden area; I'm thinking those are still available but not being promoted. The seating areas different this year also. I think the idea is to make people explore a bit more...plus so many different/western themed events and contests; There are a lot in Home and Hobby- a cornbread contest as well as a baked bean contest, and a horseshoe decorating contest too!

[Maggie]

Wow, just love the Home and Hobby pictures! I"ll have to bookmark this section for my visit next year.

[Cathy]

Thanks, Maggie-One building over from the Fine Art building, second floor(above the Student Art and Other Student entries), next to the Fine Woodworking and Gemstones and Minerals building. Home and Hobby entries are always fascinating, showcases our local talent. I do think you have to spend one long day on the Fairgrounds to see everything offered, using the map handed out when walking in, or make a return visit(so that you can try a variety of foods offered as well as seeing the rest of the exhibits and events).