20250SCR_006597CHP INTRODUCED 2025-04-24 PASSED_ASSEMBLY 2025-06-27 PASSED_SENATE 2025-05-19 ENROLLED 2025-07-01 CHAPTERED 2025-07-03 FILED 2025-07-03 2025 SCR CHP CHR 0 Introduced by Senator Alvarado-Gil (Coauthors: Senators Choi, Hurtado, McNerney, Ochoa Bogh, Rubio, and Seyarto) (Coauthors: Assembly Members Castillo and Connolly) LEAD_AUTHOR SENATE Alvarado-Gil COAUTHOR SENATE Choi COAUTHOR SENATE Hurtado COAUTHOR SENATE McNerney COAUTHOR SENATE Ochoa Bogh COAUTHOR SENATE Rubio COAUTHOR SENATE Seyarto COAUTHOR ASSEMBLY Castillo COAUTHOR ASSEMBLY Connolly Relative to California Fairgrounds Appreciation Month.

California Fairgrounds Appreciation Month California Fairgrounds Appreciation Month. This measure would designate the month of May as California Fairgrounds Appreciation Month in appreciation for the services provided to California by the fairgrounds in the state. NO

WHEREAS, The history of fairgrounds in California dates back to the mid-19th century, a time when communities were beginning to take shape in the rapidly developing state. These fairs quickly grew in popularity as they provided a platform for farmers, artisans, and inventors to display their innovations; and

WHEREAS, The earliest recorded fair in California was held in in the City of San Francisco, where agricultural exhibitions were organized to showcase local produce and livestock; and

WHEREAS, Over time, the tradition of holding fairs spread throughout the state, with each region developing its own unique flavor and focus. These early fairs laid the groundwork for what would become a beloved institution in California’s cultural heritage; and

WHEREAS, California’s fairgrounds serve the entire state, from the County of San Diego to the County of Del Norte, and from the County of Monterey to the County of Mariposa; and

WHEREAS, California counties enjoy the year-round economic, recreational, cultural, and social impacts of their local fairgrounds; and

WHEREAS, Fairgrounds play a crucial role in economic development and business growth by serving as vibrant hubs for community engagement, commerce, and tourism, and are pivotal in nurturing economic vitality and fostering a thriving business ecosystem across the state; and

WHEREAS, Fairgrounds host a wide array of events, from county fairs and agricultural expositions to concerts, trade shows, and festivals, attracting millions of visitors annually. This influx of visitors stimulates local economies by driving demand for hospitality services, including hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments; and

WHEREAS, Fairgrounds provide businesses with unique opportunities to showcase products, launch new offerings, and engage directly with consumers, fostering brand visibility and market expansion. In addition, fairgrounds often partner with local educational institutions to promote agricultural education and innovation, contributing to workforce development in key sectors; and

WHEREAS, Fairgrounds expend and generate hundreds of millions of new dollars for nonprofit organizations, youth organizations, cities and counties, small businesses, and the state’s General Fund; and

WHEREAS, Fairgrounds serve as a communal hub where people from all walks of life come together to share experiences and create memories; and

WHEREAS, Fairgrounds offer a space for community engagement and interaction, where the bonds of friendship and community are strengthened. From the thrilling rides and games to the educational exhibits and competitions, fairgrounds provide entertainment and learning opportunities for all ages; and

WHEREAS, Fairgrounds are a place where tradition and modernity meet, offering a glimpse into both the history and the future of California’s diverse communities; and

WHEREAS, California’s fairgrounds provide safe public facilities specifically designed for animals, pets, and livestock during good times and bad; and

WHEREAS, One of the primary functions of fairgrounds is to celebrate and preserve California’s rich agricultural heritage and emphasize the significance of agriculture, helping to ensure that this vital industry continues to thrive; and

WHEREAS, Fairs offer a platform for programs foundational to the agricultural education of youth, such as Future Farmers of America (FFA) and the National 4-H Council, to educate the public and students by hosting displays of livestock, produce, and horticulture. These events offer insight into sustainable farming practices and the latest advancements in agricultural technology; and

WHEREAS, Competitions, such as those for best livestock or produce, encourage excellence and innovation in the agricultural sector; and

WHEREAS, During a state of emergency, a natural disaster, or the ongoing impacts of climate change, California fairgrounds are called into service as medical sites, staging areas for emergency equipment and emergency personnel, and evacuation sites to assist those displaced by a fire or flood; and

WHEREAS, The future of fairgrounds lies in their ability to adapt to changing social and economic landscapes while preserving the traditions that make them so beloved. As California continues to grow and evolve, so too must these iconic venues; and

WHEREAS, Investments in infrastructure and technology will be crucial to maintaining the relevance and appeal of fairgrounds; and

WHEREAS, California’s fairgrounds continue to serve as the recreational, social, and economic hubs of their respective communities; and

WHEREAS, By continuing to provide a space for community gathering, economic activity, and cultural celebration, fairgrounds will remain an integral part of California’s identity. They are not just a part of the state’s history but a vibrant and essential element of its future;

now, therefore,

be it Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates the month of May as California Fairgrounds Appreciation Month in appreciation for the services provided to California by the fairgrounds in the state; and be it further Resolved, That the Legislature extends its warmest regards and appreciation to the thousands of fair volunteers, directors, CEOs, and staff, business supporters, sponsors, and associations who keep the network of California fairgrounds strong, vibrant, relevant, and successful; and be it further Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.