Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – The Marin County Fair's competitive exhibits program is now open for entries, welcoming Bay Area residents of all ages to showcase their creativity, craftsmanship, and talents July 1-5 at the Marin County Fairgrounds in San Rafael.
From homegrown produce and handcrafted artwork to culinary creations and farm-raised livestock, the competitive exhibits program fosters friendly competition while celebrating the community’s diverse skills and traditions. Categories include decorated cakes and cookies, breads, floriculture and horticulture, clothing and textiles, hobby arts, wine, beer, preserved foods, honey, fine art, photography, small animals, pocket pets and creative writing.
Special categories for this year’s fair include “Stars, Stripes & Stories” art chairs, masks, photography, decorated hats, quilts, decorated cakes, piñatas and more, all in celebration of America’s 250th.
“Every year, our community shows up and makes this fair their own,” said Jenn Olvera, Marin County Fair Manager. “The competitive exhibits program is one of the oldest and most beloved ways to do that. It's a tradition that connects this year’s entrants to everyone who has competed before them. This year, we’re adding the community paper quilt so even more voices can be part of the fair's story.”
The juried Fine Art & Craft and Fine Photography competitions also showcase outstanding local artists and have become a popular draw for art lovers across the Bay Area and beyond. Esteemed jurors select roughly 600 artworks from more than 3,000 entries to award Best of Show ribbons to the most talented artists from region.
A New Way to Participate: The Community Paper Quilt
In the spirit of this year’s Stars, Stripes & Stories theme, which celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, the fair is also launching a community paper quilt, a collective art project that tells the story of Marin one square at a time. Individuals, groups and families are invited to contribute a 6-by-6-inch square depicting their life in Marin, their family, or what makes their community meaningful to them.
Paper and materials will be provided at the Department of Cultural Services, located at 20 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael, as well as on-site at the fair. Squares can be dropped off at Cultural Services between May 1 and July 5.
The completed quilt will be displayed after the fair, during special events and future fairs, weaving together the voices, images, and stories of Marin residents into a single shared work.
Competitive Exhibit Entry Details
The competitive exhibits program continues to prioritize youth participation, with special youth categories and school partnerships encouraging the next generation to explore their creative interests.
Guides for Adult Hobby Arts and Junior Arts are also available in Spanish.
Deadlines vary by category and are available at MarinFair.org/Exhibits.
About the Marin County Fair
The Marin County Fair is committed to celebrating community, creativity, and sustainability through an inclusive and innovative experience that honors tradition while embracing the future. We strive to provide a safe and fun environment for all ages where diverse cultures, arts, agriculture, and environmental stewardship come together to inspire, educate, and entertain. Through engaging exhibits, thrilling entertainment, and meaningful community partnerships, we aim to create lasting memories and strengthen the spirit of Marin County.