KING CITY — Monterey County Agricultural and Rural Life Museum (MCARLM) is tipping its hat to tradition with a brand-new pop-up exhibit celebrating the history and impact of the Miss Salinas Valley Fair competition.
Running for a limited time only through the month of May, the exhibit highlights decades of local pride, poise and pageantry.
Featuring a curated collection of outfits, buckles, memorabilia and more, the exhibit is a tribute to the young women who have represented the Salinas Valley with grace and community spirit over the years.
A special highlight includes contributions from Lauren Davis Soto, the 2015 Miss Salinas Valley Fair from King City, who loaned several items for display. Salinas Valley Fair also contributed key pieces from its own archives to bring this unique display to life.
Jordan Davis, the newly crowned Miss Salinas Valley Fair 2025, stopped by the museum to pose with the exhibit and celebrate its opening. Her visit added a contemporary connection to the rich history being honored.
“This exhibit beautifully tells the story of the fair’s royalty and the role these young women have played in preserving and promoting our local heritage,” said Teri Storelli, executive director of MCARLM. “It’s a must-see for fair fans and history buffs alike.”
Visitors who stop by the MCARLM gift shop before May 15 will have an extra reason to celebrate: any purchase receipt can be entered into a drawing to win two free tickets to see country artist Chase Bryant live at the Salinas Valley Fair on May 17.
The recently renovated museum gift shop is also ready for fair season, featuring cowgirl hats, western T-shirts and hoodies, and clear purses that meet the fair’s new clear bag policy — making it a convenient stop before heading to the fairgrounds.
The Miss Salinas Valley Fair pop-up exhibit will be open daily Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at MCARLM, located in San Lorenzo Park in King City, through May 31.
