Events

The Cal Expo water tower. Welcome to the California State Fair!

One of the things I found most striking about this young Alpaca was it’s unusual colored eyes. Sadly, this isn’t a desirable characteristic according to breeders and animals possessing it are often put down.

Llamas always amuse me. This fellow was intent on getting his photo on the cover of “Llamas Illustrated.”

I was amused by this metal sign once used to advertise Johnson outboard motors. It was part of a “history of outboard motors” static display.

The art pavilion always features a a large “contraption” - this one reminded me of something my brother-in-law made for me back in the 60’s. It was called a “bull-shit grinder.”

The “Legos” display is always quite impressive. They make entire cities out of the tiny blocks. This is a three-foot-tall California golden bear.

The performing arts are well represented on a stage in the outdoor amphitheater. This group performed traditional African dances.

Zoltar told me I would be enjoying good luck in the near future. I bought a lottery ticket. No word yet…

The fellow who brings these beautiful birds is at the Fair every year and I always enjoy them. Isn’t this Cockatoo beautiful?

And this fellow had me in stitches with his antics! He hammed it up for the camera, even posed with one leg raised. But he was most proud of his ability to remove the cap from a bottled water and drink from it! Hilarious! He fancies himself quite a looker, too!

Part of a large collection of “Princess Di” memorabilia.

Part of the “9-11” Memorial at Cal Expo.

A stage hypnotist takes members of the audience, “puts them under,” then has them respond to suggestions and do outlandish things. Always entertaining.

The Cal Expo Tram passing overhead during the hypnotist’s act.

Of course, there is all manner of food to be enjoyed. “Chicken Charlie” always brings something new and unusual that’s been deep-fried - deep-fried Twinkies, deep-fried Oreos, deep-fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches and more have been popular in years past - and this year’s treat was deep-fried Coca-Cola! No, we didn’t partake; that’s just a little too weird!

The midway, of course, is always popular, especially with kids and teens. I love the neon! And Dawn and I always take a romantic ride on the giant ferris wheel.

“Show your strength, ring the bell and win a prize!” This young lady didn’t ring the bell but did garner lots of attention.

Nice to see at least one graffiti artist found honest work.

This ride not only takes you upside down…

…It spins you around at the same time!

The House of Horrors has been taken over by a two-headed dragon…

…and this petite young damsel begs for rescue.

As the midway closed, we made our way to the parking lot. It was 11 PM and still hot! But a fun evening at the Fair. We’ll do it again next year. Pray for Delta breezes.