by Frank Sabatini Jr.

Tunes, Food and Deals at the Fair A sturdy lineup of musical entertainment is in store at the 2009 San Diego County Fair, presented this year by Albertsons. The theme, “Music Mania,” opens the main stage to headline performers such as American Idol sensation David Cook; legendary Motown soul musician Smokey Robinson; and Melissa Etheridge with country music artist Clint Black. In addition, classic rock fans can wax nostalgic over Heroes of Woodstock, a compendium of bands that will feature The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Starship, Canned Heat and Big Brother and the Holding Company.

“This is going to be one of our biggest years because we’re packing in so many good acts,” says Information Officer Talin Hartounian. In keeping with the theme, organizers are also presenting “Musicpalooza!” which includes a dozen bands and an equal number of soloists from the U.S. and Baja competing within each of their categories for $25,000. The winners will also share in the honor of opening for a concert by longtime recording artist Joan Jett, scheduled the evening of July 3. The musical playoffs will take place at various entertainment stages throughout the fairgrounds on June 10 and 25, and July 3.

Food for Thought
Fairgoers of late are no strangers to over-the-top vendor food. And this year promises to test their palates. New offerings will include chocolate-dipped bacon; chicken sandwiches made with oatmeal-raisin chocolate chip cookies; deep-fried green beans; and “zucchini weenies,” hotdogs stuffed into whole zucchinis and then deep fried. A word to the wise: Hit those thrill rides before you eat.

On a healthier note, Albertsons is presenting a first-ever farmers’ market at the fair to showcase our region’s bounty of organic meats and produce. The market will operate during fair hours.

The Big Steal
Repeat visitors can dodge the regular daily admission into the fair this year by purchasing the newly introduced “season pass.” The cost is $22, which is good for the entire 22 days that the fair runs. Admission otherwise is $13 for adults; $7 for ages 6 through 12 (and 62 or older) and free for kids 5 and under.

Canines and Firemen
Among the hundreds of new and regular attractions blanketing the fairgrounds, this year’s roster makes way for two new events held in the renovated Chevy Del Mar Arena building. The Purina Incredible Dog Challenge is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., June 12 and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 13. A “fire expo” and “firefighter combat challenge” that simulates rescues against the clock will take place from noon to 8 p.m., June 20.

Fair Facts
The fair runs from June 12 through July 15 (closed June 15 and 22). Gates are open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., on Saturdays and Sundays, and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., on weeknights.

Del Mar Fairgrounds • 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar
858-755-1161 • sdfair.com/fair