Caruthers District Fair, California's largest free gate fair, is this week

There’s something very special happening in the small Fresno County town of Caruthers this week. The 88^th annual Caruthers District Fair begins Wednesday, Sept. 27 and runs through Saturday, Sept. 30.

The Caruthers Fair the largest free gate fair in California, meaning it doesn’t cost anything to get in. This year’s theme is “Barn and Raised in the USA,” so you can expect old-time charm.

The food booths are run by area church and school groups. You won’t just find corndogs. Our Saviors Lutheran Church serves up their classic Abelskivers, and the Lemoore Church of the Nazarene will offer smoked turkey legs. Washington Union High’s Band and Color Guard features tri-tip. Is your mouth watering yet?!

You’ll want to save room for dessert. The homemade pies are outstanding!

Caruthers Fair entertainment line-up

Various entertainment acts will perform throughout the fair. Thursday night, an Elvis impersonator will perform on the main stage. On Friday, local country band Dakota Crossing will perform, and on Saturday, Meghan Linsey, the season eight runner-up from “The Voice,” will take the stage along with Tyler Cain.

Motorcycle racing will take place at the Caruthers Fair Short Track on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Like with most fairs, there are also carnival rides, games, and livestock and exhibits to enjoy.

The Caruthers District Fair’s roots date back to 1923. It was established with the goal of promoting and encouraging agriculture and other related industries.

Saturday morning at 10 a.m. there will be a parade. David Cline and James Gardner are the 2017 Grand Marshals.

Each year, someone leaves the fair in a brand new car! Raffle tickets are $5, and there are drawings each night. This year’s grand prize is a Ford Escape. The winning ticket will be picked Saturday night at 11 p.m.

So, you might be wondering where exactly is Caruthers? The fairground address is 13595 South Raider Street.

It’s about 20 minutes from Fresno. Just take 41 south and make a right on Mountain View. Go about 2 ½ miles and make a left on Tahoe St. and then another left on Raider and you’re there.

Gates open at noon on Wednesday and at 10 a.m. the other days. Have fun!

[photos: Caruthers District Fair]