Posted by Bruce Bilmes and Sue Boyle
, August 12, 2008 21:39
Hollywood is the theme of this year’s California State Fair in Sacramento, and there will be plenty of attractions focusing on the entertainment industry: see how a movie is made at the Going Hollywood exhibit, visit the Red Carpet Fashion exhibit, and participate in CSI Live. The extensive concert schedule includes Jessica Simpson and Chicago. There’ll be live thoroughbred racing too, and a Dachsund Derby on the 30th. You can check out Malcolm Forbes’ Lamborghini and Reggie Jackson’s Jaguar at the Cars of the Stars exhibit. Ride a train powered by cow manure (presumably no connection to this year’s theme).
Last year’s debut of the Elvis Sandwich (a deep-fried peanut butter-and-banana concoction) was the big culinary hit of the fair. We don’t know if the Elvis is making a return visit this year, but either way this year’s California State Fair is sure to present loads of excellent eating opportunities. There will be plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables at the Certified Farmers Market. Stands will be selling fresh-squeezed juices, roasted corn, nuts and dried fruit. Taste the winners of the Commercial Wine Competition in Wine Country, and be sure to visit the Brewfest on the 22nd. California’s ranching heritage is celebrated at Cattlemen’s Day on the 27th, where there will be a barbecue and Western entertainment. Try a hand-shaken margarita and a Caesar salad at Hussong’s Cantina.
At the Children’s Dairy Center kids will be able to milk cows and goats, and make butter from that milk. See California cooking demonstrations at Dirt to Dish in the Demonstration Farm. That year-round working farm is also the place to compete in watermelon eating and corn husking contests. The California Foodstyle building will feature chef competitions and food judging and demonstrations. Watch firemen compete in the Firefighter Cooking Challenge.
For more info, see the state fair website.
