
By Gina Yarbrough
Del Mar, CA–The San Diego County Fair is introducing new strolling acts and thrilling performances, adding to this summer’s vibrant atmosphere.
The percussion band BOOM! will electrify audiences with their high-energy, mobile drum and percussion performances. The group, known for their vibrant, lighted instruments, will perform five times a day in various locations, bringing rhythmic beats and energetic sounds to every corner of the Fairgrounds.
Adding to the “Summer Pet-tacular” theme, a pair of costume characters—a dog and a cat—will roam the Fair as a whimsical duo. These walkabout characters are nameless, leaving visitors to let their imaginations run wild. Whether you choose to call them Spot and Dot, Sparky and Thelma, or something entirely different, the characters will primarily be found in the “Pet’s Rock: Live on Tour” exhibit.
For an ethereal experience, “Twisted Orbit” will showcase a pair of stilt walkers in delicate costumes, gracefully strolling through the Paul Ecke Jr. Garden Show at night. Their elegant presence will be the perfect complement to the lush petals and plants of the garden.
In addition to these exciting new acts, the Michelob ULTRA Avenue Stage will feature two new performers. Adam the Great, a magician known for his sleight-of-hand tricks, will perform from June 11–22, while hypnotist Jeff Martin will take the stage from June 25–July 6, offering audiences a chance to experience his mind-bending illusions and altered states of awareness.
Returning Fair favorites will also add to the excitement. Buck Trout, the driving puppet, is back, now sporting his latest wheels—Sudsy Wudsy Mobile Pet Grooming. The Wilder Show will once again delight crowds with unicycle tricks, juggling, and audience participation, often spotted along the Avenue of the Palms. For thrills and high-flying feats, the Flying Royals trapeze artists will perform three times daily in Family Funville, while Violin on Fire and the Pet-tacular Parrot Show offer additional entertainment.
The Stunt Dog Show in Family Funville will showcase talented dogs performing acrobatic tricks, demonstrating positive reinforcement training, and showing off some seriously impressive skills.
The Great American Speedway Crazy Animal Races, or GASCAR, will bring a hilarious twist to animal races as goats, sheep, pigs, and other surprise creatures, all dressed in racing silks, compete in fast-paced races three times daily at The Farm. Also in The Farm, two daily shows of Farmyard Follies will offer live animal demonstrations and educational fun.
San Diego County Fair’s first 4-H Dog Show will be held in the Arena, where 4-H members will handle their dogs in a Westminster-style competition for ribbons and accolades. Fans of small but speedy dogs won’t want to miss the Wiener Dog and Corgi Races on June 14, where short legs and spunky attitudes will make for thrilling races. From June 25–29, the Dock Dogs and Flyball competitions will highlight canine athleticism in an exciting display of jumps, agility, and speed.
With these exciting new attractions and returning favorites, the San Diego County Fair will be a memorable experience for guests.