11/13/2024
Hot Diggity Dog (and cat and fish and bird)! The Del Mar Fairgrounds will transform into a pet-lovers paradise at the 2025 San Diego County Fair.
At a meeting Tuesday of the Board of Directors of the 22nd District Agricultural Association, “Summer Pet-tacular” was officially revealed as the final official tagline for the 2025 San Diego County Fair, and the new logo was presented. The 2025 Fair branding initiatives were unveiled on the Fair’s online platforms — across social media and the Fair’s website, sdfair.com.
“Our community’s Fair — a treasured family summer tradition and the best deal in town for your entertainment dollar — will celebrate the special bonds between humans and their pets,” said Carlene Moore, CEO of the 22nd District Agricultural Association, which produces the annual Fair. “This fun theme creates a natural opportunity to partner with an organization that has focused on improving animal welfare in our community since 1880 — the same year as the first-ever San Diego County Fair.”
Public safety and animal safety will remain top priorities at the Fair, which means the District will not permit general admission of pets based on the following considerations:
• Crowds can reach about 60,000 humans on any given day at the Fair, making the grounds difficult to navigate with pets.
• The Fairgrounds walking surfaces are primarily pavement, which can be hot for paws in the summer, even with cooler coastal air temperatures.
• The noises, lights, and festive atmosphere of the Fair could disturb and spook our furry friends.
• The Fair is an event for everyone in San Diego County — even those who are allergic to or fearful of animals.
However, the Fair will feature numerous activities and ways to celebrate pet ownership. In addition, Gary Weitzman, President and CEO of San Diego Humane Society said that the Humane Society will work with Fair organizers to find special opportunities to include pets in the festivities on a limited basis and to provide dedicated space for animals who are available for adoption.
“With a record number of homeless pets in shelters, we are excited to help introduce Fair guests to their potential new family members,” Weitzman said. “This partnership with the county’s largest annual event allows us to celebrate our pets, educate our community about responsible pet ownership and find safe homes for these deserving animals in need.”
The 2025 Fair will be open June 11 - July 6, with closures every Monday and Tuesday. The Fair will feature food, music, rides, games, exhibits, entertainment, animals, agricultural education, and more.