150 Year milestone for the Alameda County Fair

Today, the 20th of June 2008, is the official opening of the 2008 Alameda County Fair, and as always it will open with spectacular live horse racing and fireworks. This year is a very special celebration for the Alameda County Fair, as they are commemorating a hundred and fifty years of horse racing. And as with previous years, the organizers have not missed a beat to make the 2008 Alameda County Fair as exciting and as entertaining, for the entire family, as possible.

Each day of the fair, post time for racing will be at 12:35 and spectators, which are estimated at approximately fifty thousand, will be able to enjoy the thrill of live horse racing. One sentimental element that the fair has added to the racing, enabling the public to become a part of the racing, is to offer Named Races. This is when the public have the opportunity to name a professional race after a loved one, for an anniversary surprise, dedication, in memory of, or for any special occasion, at a small fee. Not only will the name be displayed on the racing program and announced, but six people connected to the naming of the race will be able to enter the winners circle and have the picture taken with the horse, trainer, jockey and owner that walked away victorious from their named event.

The Alameda County Fair has always been about families and attracting spectators from various age groups, so the organizers ensure that there are activities and entertainment for everyone to enjoy. The locals view horse racing as a part of their heritage, and support the fair annually. Trainers and horse owners ensure that the race cards have full fields, out of loyalty to their county and the opportunity to race their young horses here to gain experience. Those attending the fair this year will find so many activities available, they will not know where to start.

There will be barnyards, rides and special facilities just for children, the annual parade, the Jr Livestock Auction, various competitions, a Roller Derby and the La Raza Music Fest. Back by popular demand is the Read & Ride initiative, where children were given six books to read before the 15th of May 2008. As reward for their efforts, the children were given six coupons to use for fair rides of their choice. The Living Green Village educates the public on eco-friendly lifestyles in regard to cleaning, recycling, energy conservation and products, and every night spectators are invited to remain at the fair for the concerts that take place between six and eight, and are free to attend with admission to the fair. Music lovers can look forward to Doodlebops Live!, Terri Clark, Boys II Men, Life In The Fast Lane, Mark Schultz, Ronnie Milsap, Cheeseballs, Pablo Cruise, Wayman Tisdale, Paul Rodriguez, Trin-I-Tee 5:7, Fastball, Eddie Money, War, Red White & Blues Festival, Los Lobos and Steve Holy.

The 2008 Alameda County Fair comes to an end on 6 July 2008 and visitors to the festival will not be disappointed. It is going to be an event filled with racing magnificence, breathtaking entertainment and a memorable festival for all the members of the family.