Chowchilla kicks of 70th county fair

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The rides are rolling, food is frying and the gates are open for a north valley fair celebrating it's 70th year.

Country nights and carnival lights are the theme of this year's Chowchilla Madera County Fair.

The north valley favorite is boasting some new attractions.

"We have a whole bunch of exotic animals, camels, yaks," event CEO John Scurfield said. "All sorts of nice rides we have a hypnotist a magician we have free entertainment on the stage."

Scurfield says it's thanks to community support that this event was able to continue.

Scurfield took the reigns as the fair was on the brink of extinction after state funding for county fairs was cut in 2011.

"The community was so supportive either in sponsorships or helping purchase animals at auction and raising the per pound price," he said.

Scurfield attributes the fair's longevity to a strong board of directors, who, he says, go above and beyond.

The optimal weather won't be the only people pleaser this weekend and live stock is always a big draw.

"These kids work hard they raise an animal they're learning business thats kind'a what it's all about," Scurfield said.

"Whether you're showing an animal or not the livestock is always a great part of it," said Kirsten Grissom of Chowchilla.

First timers Spencer and Devyn are getting their pigs show ready and can't wait to see their hardwork pay of at the auction.

"You have to take care of them you have to know when to feed them and to clean the pen so they have a nice home until its time to show," Spencer said.

"It's a big responsibility and if you can handle a pick your set and ready to go," Devyn said.