KING CITY — This year’s Salinas Valley Fair Kick-Off delivered a standout evening of community support, raising $121,800 — the highest profit since 2018 — and building strong momentum for the 82nd annual Salinas Valley Fair, set for May 14-17.
More than 500 guests gathered April 18 at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds in King City for the annual fundraiser, hosted by the Salinas Valley Fair Board, Fair Kick-Off Committee and staff. Dinner was prepared by the King City Young Farmers and served by the Junior Fair Board, creating a warm, community-driven atmosphere that set the stage for the celebration ahead.
The evening’s silent and live auctions showcased the generosity of local supporters, with proceeds benefiting fair programming, youth agriculture programs and the broader community.
“We can always count on our community to come together at the Fair Kick-Off in support of our Fair,” said Frank Lopez, Fair Board director and Fair Kick-Off Committee chair. “The success of this event is also owed to our sponsors and donors, who return year after year to help make this fundraiser possible.”
As part of the Kick-Off celebration, the Salinas Valley Fair dedicated the Junior Livestock Auction to Burt and Cheryl Silva in recognition of their longstanding support, leadership and commitment to the Fair community. Their impact has “helped shape generations of exhibitors and continues to be felt throughout South County,” according to the Fair.
With the success of the Kick-Off setting the stage, anticipation is building for the 2026 Fair’s “Red, White & Bloom” theme — celebrating the nation’s birthday, Garden Lane and the traditions that bring the community together.
“Every year our focus starts with the entertainment we bring to the Fair, ensuring fun, liveliness and a great time for all ages,” said Lauren Hamilton, Salinas Valley Fair CEO.
Entertainment at this year’s Salinas Valley Fair will include a mix of motorsports, music, family attractions and agricultural events throughout fair week in King City.
On Thursday, May 14, the Fair opens entertainment programming with flat track motorcycle races and a Grand Tasting event, which will require a ticket. Friday, May 15, features 4×4 truck and tractor pulls along with professional wrestling. Saturday, May 16, includes the Junior Livestock Auction followed by a ticketed concert by country-pop artist Niko Moon, known for hits such as “Good Time.” The Fair concludes its featured entertainment on Sunday, May 17, with a Hispanic concert series.
Additional daily entertainment will include All Alaskan Pig Races, The Drum Heads, Jeremy the Juggler and the Magic of Louie Foxx, among other acts.
Throughout the week, fairgoers can also view still exhibits and agricultural displays, ride carnival attractions, attend nightly 21-and-over entertainment at the Longbranch Saloon and visit food and merchandise vendors across the grounds. New food offerings this year will include such items as macaroni and cheese, acai bowls and smoothies, and aguas frescas.
Tickets for the Niko Moon concert and other select events are available at salinasvalleyfair.com.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all guests, the Salinas Valley Fair will be enforcing a clear bag policy. Visitors are encouraged to review full guidelines and permitted items in advance at the Fair website.
“Salinas Valley Fair continues to be a cherished tradition for communities from San Benito County to Northern San Luis Obispo County, bringing together agriculture, entertainment and family fun year after year,” according to the Fair.
For schedules, event tickets, security policies and more, visit salinasvalleyfair.com, call the SVF Office by phone at 831-385-3243, or email at sv*@***************ir.com.
