Contra Costa County Fair arrives in Antioch - San Jose Mercury News.
ReprintPrint Email Font Resize Contra Costa County Fair arrives in Antioch By Paula King East County Times Posted: 05/29/2009 12:00:00 AM PDT Although the opening date is earlier and the run shorter than in the past, Antioch Mayor Jim Davis is proud that the Contra Costa County Fair remains synonymous with his hometown. "You can't think of Antioch without thinking of the fair, and you can't think of the fair without thinking of Antioch," he said after Thursday's opening ceremonies. "It is still part of Antioch's history." Davis has fond childhood memories of attending the fair after school got out for summer, and he said it is still an honor for Antioch to host a county event. He hopes that new exhibits and attractions can keep up residents' interest in the fair. An announcement of free admission on opening day until 3 p.m. drew crowds of stay-at-home moms with strollers in tow and seniors leisurely walking down the midway. Families and friends savored typical fair cuisine, including fried food on a stick and sweet treats. Red Hat Society member Isabella Villasenor came to take advantage of free admission early Thursday for all red hatters in full regalia. Villasenor, decked out in an ornate red and purple hat, listened to live country music and enjoyed a snow cone near the 4-H barn.
