Competitions

CA State Fair Golden Bear Award

Competitors from all over the state compete for top honors and cash prizes. Whether you are an exhibitor or a spectator, the CA State Fair & Food Festival is the place to be to experience the best of California’s traditions, culture, and cuisine.

We are excited to continue our 170-year tradition this summer of showcasing the Best of California during the CA State Fair & Food Festival. Join us from July 12-28, 2024 to celebrate all the amazing things that California has to offer!

Wine tasting in wine yard, set of glasses with red, white and rose wine, bright green grapevine in background

California Commercial Wine

Professionally judged to recognize the best wines produced in California.
Man standing in cannabis farm holding a cup

California Cannabis

Showcasing California's finest cannabis flower and craft cultivators.
Different mugs and glasses filled with different types of beer on a table

California Commercial Craft Beer

A competition among the best breweries California has to offer.
Olive Oil being poured into a cup of olive oil

CA Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Honoring the best extra virgin olive oils grown, processed and packaged in California.
Cheese on a board

California Commercial Cheese

Celebrating the craftsmanship & unique character of California cheesemakers.
Jam and pie. Canning and Baking Photo - Square

Canning and Baking

Celebrating California’s best adult & youth home bakers and canners.
Sheep standing in a pen

Open Livestock

Competitions showcasing a variety of livestock.

Junior Livestock

Junior Livestock is home to the best of California's youth FFA programs.

Small Animals

Recognizing the hard work of Future Farmers of America (FFA), 4H, and Grange members.

Crafts

Winning crafts will be proudly displayed during the Fair.
Desk with stationary. Studio shot on wooden background.

Student Showcase

Student Showcase recognizes the best of California youth entries.
pretty woman is a professional photographer with dslr camera

Photography

Showcase your skills and talent along with other amazing photographers like yourself.
Artist painting

Fine Art

One of the largest judged art shows in the Golden State.

Plein Air at the Fair Contest

Both novice and experts alike are invited to capture the iconic images of the Fair.
Wheatland FFA ag Lucas Skinner

Ag Mechanics

Enjoy the best projects built from California high school FFA students and 4-H members.

County Fair Best Of Show

Enjoy watching the best exhibitors from every county, citrus, and district fair compete
Assortment of beer glasses on table with burlap cloth, dark wooden background

Homebrew

Celebrating the hard work of amateur home brewer.
A person holding grapes in a crate

Home Wine

Supporting, promoting, and recognizing the talent of the successful home winemaker!
Person playing a video game on a computer

Bear Cup Esports Tournament

Competitors from around the GALAXY go head to head in the biggest titles in gaming.
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Corn Dog Eating Contest

Participants will be given a set time to eat as many corn dogs as they can!
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Save Mart Pie Eating Contest

Participate in a good old fashioned pie eating contest!