Everybody's Discovering Gold at the 86th Annual Alameda County Fair

By Hacienda Network Staff Writer

Both entertaining and entrepreneurial opportunities abound at this year's Alameda County Fair, to be held June 27 through July 12. The theme for this year's event is "Discovering Gold at the Alameda County Fair," and honors the sesquicentennial of the discovery of gold in California in 1848.

The fair offers a variety of activities that are fun for the whole family. Try your hand at panning for gold, or enjoy an interactive technology exhibit entitled, "Jump into the Future." Of course, there will also be a carnival, as well as old favorites like a model railroad exhibit, garden and landscape displays, and a petting zoo.

For fans of agriculture, the fair will feature a livestock auction and pavilion, as well as a display from local wineries.

Heavyweight Headliners

The fair will also feature some of the biggest names in entertainment over the last 30 years. Each will do two shows, at 6:00 and 8:00 pm; shows are free with admission to the fair.

At the top of the list is Wayne Newton, who will entertain on June 28. Other headliners include Ricky Scaggs (July 1), Peter Frampton (July 4), Bo Diddley (July 8), and Gordon Lightfoot (July 11).

Discount, advance sale tickets are available at the fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasanton Avenue, or by phone at (925) 426-7600 for credit card orders.

Technology Pavilion

Returning to this year's Alameda County Fair is the Technology Pavilion. A big hit in the 1997 fair, the pavilion will host the Technology Expo, a new web site design contest, and more.

These areas offer an opportunity for area technology businesses to show off their wares, as well as Alameda County's growing prominence in the computer and telecommunications industries.

Promotional Opportunities

The fair also offers promotional opportunities for local businesses.

The fair typically draws nearly 450,000 people over its 16 day run, creating an attractive audience for many companies.

"The fair offers direct benefits to sponsors with its secure venues, high volume of attendees, and signage opportunities," says Al Amador, marketing manager for the event. "We offer sponsorship packages from $500 to $80,000, or in trade and promotional support."

Elements of promotional packages include inclusion in fair promotional brochures (500,000 distributed); exclusive sponsorship of key attractions, including individual stages and exhibition halls, depending upon availability; banners or signage at each venue; complimentary tickets and VIP seats for the horse races, and more.

For information on promotional opportunities, contact Al Amador at (925) 426-7511 or send an e-mail.

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