The Loop Newspaper - Tehachapi's Online Community News & Entertainment Guide

The previously announced AV Fair & Alfalfa “Barntober Fest” is now officially the 2021 AV Fair & Alfalfa Festival’s 82nd annual Fair. The eight-day event will take place Oct. 1-10, with dark days scheduled for Oct. 4 and 5.

In March, the AV Fair Management team announced plans for an October Festival, titled the “Barntober Fest.” The initial announcement made in early spring was in response to the ongoing COVID-19 large event venue restrictions announced by the State. As these restrictions have eased, the logistics and planning for a more traditional fair event are now realistic.

Traditionally, the AV Fair & Alfalfa Festival takes place in late August and requires logistical planning to begin twelve months in advance of the event dates. However, with diligent planning, creative leadership and community sponsorships /partnerships, a more traditional fair is possible and will take place this October. Online general admission and RAM PRCA CA Circuit Finals Rodeo arena event tickets will go on sale August 2. Dates for the additional online presale arena event ticket sales will be announced in the coming few weeks.

The 2021 fair will bring an array of fabulous fair food, iconic carnival rides, mid-way, popular pig races, live music, select exhibits and thrilling arena events including the California Circuit Finals Rodeo, a Hispanic Rodeo and Concert, two Monster Truck shows, Figure 8 races, the unique Rural Olympics and ever popular Demolition Derby.

Drew Mercy, President of the AV Fair & Alfalfa Festival Board of Directors commented, “We are all thrilled to announce that our beloved AV Fair & Alfalfa Festival is back on. Earlier in the year, the large-scale restrictions would not have allowed us to move forward to host a traditional fair, but our staff, volunteers, vendors, exhibitors and leadership teams remained vigilant – working together to ensure we are ready to host our iconic fair. The fair community is nimble and able to pivot in executing plans that shape a true fair experience. There will be some differences this year. While we will not be including headline arena concerts, some of the all-time favorite arena events will be returning including motor sports and the CA Circuit Rodeo Finals. We do look forward to bringing headline concerts back to the fairgrounds in the not-too-distant future when performers’ touring schedule allows. This 2021 fair will be an incredible event and fairgoers are sure to have a great time as always.”

The 66th Annual Kiwanis Jr. Livestock Auction presented by PARRIS® Law Firm will take place on Thursday, August 26. This year’s auction is currently being planned to be a hybrid event, with both online bidding options and an in-person event. Details of the auction are being finalized and will be shared as more information becomes available.

Be sure to visit avfair.com and follow AV Fair & Event Center on social media for updates and announcements.