First San Diego County Fair
The first San Diego County Fair was held in 1880, providing a platform for local farmers to showcase their produce and livestock.
1880
1936
Move to Del Mar Fairgrounds
The fair was moved to its current location at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, offering a larger space and better facilities for exhibitors and visitors.
1942
Fair Suspended During WWII
The San Diego Fair was suspended from 1942 to 1945 due to World War II, as the fairgrounds were used for military purposes.
1946
Fair Resumes After WWII
The San Diego Fair resumed operations, drawing large crowds eager to return to the annual tradition.
1954
Introduction of New Rides and Attractions
The fair introduced new carnival rides and attractions, significantly boosting its popularity and attendance.
1969
Name Change to Del Mar Fair
The San Diego County Fair was officially renamed the Del Mar Fair, reflecting its location at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
1981
Record Attendance
The fair set a record with over one million visitors, highlighting its growing popularity.
1990
Introduction of Concert Series
The fair introduced a series of live concerts featuring popular artists, adding a new dimension to the event.
2002
Rebranding to San Diego County Fair
The fair was rebranded back to its original name, the San Diego County Fair, to better represent its roots and community focus.
2005
Expansion of Exhibit Halls
New exhibit halls were added, providing more space for agricultural displays, arts, and crafts.
2009
Green Initiatives Introduced
The fair introduced green initiatives, including recycling programs and sustainable practices, to reduce its environmental impact.
2015
100th Anniversary Celebration
The fair celebrated its 100th anniversary with special events, exhibits, and a historical retrospective.
2020
Virtual Fair Due to COVID-19
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the San Diego County Fair was held virtually, featuring online exhibits and performances.
2021
Return of In-Person Fair
The fair returned to an in-person format with enhanced safety measures, drawing enthusiastic crowds.
2023
Record-Breaking Attendance
The San Diego County Fair set a new attendance record, showcasing its enduring appeal and importance to the community.
