As the Merced County Spring Fair prepares to enter its 125th year, fair management is striving to continue in the face of budget cuts.
About three years ago, the state stopped funding the fair system. Local businessmen and the Merced County Spring Fair Heritage Foundation have stepped in to raise enough funds to continue to pay out more than $40,000 in prize money to youth for projects ranging from ag mechanics to livestock.
Fundraisers have also been critical in operating the fair and attracting talent.
More then 6,000 students come to the fair through the free school tour program, which provides them with hands-on learning about agriculture. The fair includes musical entertainment, a plethora of rides, plenty of food and an abundance of contests.
New this year is a bull-riding rodeo called Jaripeo Ranchero. The event is scheduled for May 1.
What began as a spring picnic by town founder Henry Miller in 1890 has grown into an energetic community event supported by businesses, local organizations and families.