By Gina Yarbrough
Del Mar, CA–Fairgoers looking to stretch their dollars and their appetites are in for a treat this summer at the San Diego County Fair, thanks to two new food promotions aimed at serving up both flavor and value.
Recognizing that food is a major draw for many attendees, Fair officials have teamed up with vendors to launch two budget-friendly programs: a $15 Value Meal Deal available daily, and a half-price “Foodie Fridays” promotion highlighting the Fair’s most innovative dishes.
Each day of the Fair, 43 participating food stands — many with multiple locations — will offer Value Meal Deals priced at $15 plus tax. Each meal includes an entrée, a side, and/or a drink. A full list of vendors and offerings is available at SDFair.com/valuemeals.
On Fridays throughout June, guests can take advantage of “Foodie Fridays” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., when 18 standout entries from the Fair-tastic Foods Competition will be available at half price. The annual contest challenges food vendors to create new and imaginative dishes across three categories: “So San Diego,” “WOW,” and a special “Theme” category that ties into the Fair’s yearly motif. Entries are judged in both sweet and savory classes.
The Fair previously announced 45 semi-finalists and will reveal the 18 finalists on June 11. These finalists’ creations will be featured in the Foodie Fridays deal, offering visitors a chance to sample some of the Fair’s boldest and most buzzworthy bites.
The competition culminates in a live tasting event at 11:30 a.m. on June can in the Paddock area, where a panel of judges will select the winners in a Food Network-style showdown.
Children 12 and under are also admitted free on Fridays, making it an ideal day for families to enjoy the festivities and flavors.
For more details, visit SDFair.com/food.
