The Annual Mendocino County Fair and Apple Show, started in 1924, in Mendocino’s historic and picturesque Anderson Valley has remained an old-time harvest festival. This, in the face of a flourishing wine industry and greatly increased tourist traffic is a cause for celebration. Once a year, Anderson Valley’s biggest metropolis (the sign says “Boonville – 715”), its fairgrounds bursting with the reds and golds of fall flowers, opens the gates to crowds of local folks as well as multitudes from out-of-county.

The Fair Board of Directors, Fair Staff and the Community, for years has always put forth a three-day wonder to showcase Anderson Valley apples and other local produce. This major event includes elegant floral displays and feature booths, racks of glistening jars of home-canned specialties, tables of tatted, quilted, knitted, and other domestic items, photographs and paintings that are absolutely the firnest of quality, and of course 4-H and FFA livestock, all beautifully groomed. Anderson Valley apples, cider, and local wines are all available for tasting. The entire family can enjoy the football game, C.C.P.R.A. Rodeo, Sheep Dog Trials, a Classic Car Show and Parade are Sunday’s features. Sadie the Balloon Lady, Fables of the West, Hypnotist – Kellie Karl, and the carnival. Come “Follow the Thread” from animal to fabric and the Annual California Wood & Fiber Festival.