3-Day Cloverdale Citrus Fair Kicks Off, Parade Included

CLOVERDALE, CA — Sonoma County's first harbinger of spring, the annual Cloverdale Citrus Fair, is running through President's Day Monday, rain or shine. The theme of this year's three-day Cloverdale Citrus Fair is California Dreamin'. An annual tradition for 128 years, the Cloverdale Citrus Fair kicks off the fair season in California showcasing detailed citrus fruit displays in honor of the citrus belt that was once part of the Northern Sonoma County landscape.

The Citrus Fair Parade with its floats and marching bands will be led down Cloverdale Boulevard by Grand Marshal and journalist Mary Jo Winter starting at 11 a.m. Saturday.

Police warn fairgoers that cars parked in "No Parking" zones will be towed at the owner's expense. Road closures are in effect from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Motorists are advised to use alternate means of travel during that time.

Once you enter the gates, look up in the sky for Mark and Dre as they expertly balance on stilts. They’ll also be hosting a show on the Family Fun Stage, bringing action packed comedy with a dose of dexterity. Science comes to the fair this year with Professor Smart, who will show kids how to have fun with physics. Sadie the Balloon Lady will be around the grounds creating custom balloon figures for fairgoers.

Butler Amusement's carnival thrill rides this year include Rock Star, Zipper, Freak Out, Raptor and the Eagle 16 Ferris wheel. There also are family rides and kids rides for the less adventurous.

Six bands will perform during the weekend. A queen pageant is Friday evening. A That's Entertainment cabaret performance is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and a talent show is at noon Sunday.

The Exhibit Hall is where fairgoers can find three-dimensional exhibits covered with vibrant citrus fruit and food products on display along with themed gardens. These exhibits take weeks to construct and are handcrafted by local service groups such as Rotary, Lions and 4-H.

Peruse through Warner Hall to view a vast display of community talent showcasing photography, painting, quilts, floral arrangements, jams, jellies and more.

Friday is Senior Day at the Fair. Seniors 62 and over receive free gate admission. Bingo will be hosted in the main auditorium with plenty of prizes for all.

Sunday of the Fair is Family Day. Make sure to catch the Talent Show, "Cloverdale’s Got Talent."

Monday at the Fair is Kids Day. Children 12 and under can enjoy the fair for free. The highly anticipated Baby Derby takes place at noon in the Main Auditorium.

Throughout the weekend, the wine and culinary building will be hosting tastings and demos.

General admission is $10 and $5 for seniors and kids 6-12. Visit www.cloverdalecitrusfair.org for more details.

Bay City News Service contributed to this report.