California’s Kern County Fair Draws Crowds for Boy Scout Booth Baked Potatoes

Every September, the Kern County Fair transforms Bakersfield into a bustling celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and mouthwatering food.

Among the countless attractions and food vendors, one stand consistently draws the longest lines: the Boy Scout Troop’s baked potato booth. These massive, perfectly baked potatoes loaded with toppings have become more than just fair food – they’re a cherished tradition spanning generations of California families.

1. Kern County Fair: A California Tradition Since 1913

The Kern County Fair has welcomed visitors for over a century, evolving from a small agricultural showcase into one of California’s premier county fairs. Each September, the 168-acre fairgrounds in Bakersfield bursts with carnival rides, livestock competitions, and entertainment that attracts nearly 400,000 visitors annually.

Local farmers proudly display prize-winning produce while families create lasting memories on midway rides. The fair originally began as a way to celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage, particularly its cotton, citrus, and dairy industries.

What makes this 12-day event special is how it balances modern entertainment with traditional fair experiences. Despite technological advances, the heart of the fair remains unchanged; a community gathering that highlights local culture, farming excellence, and timeless family fun.

2. The Boy Scout Booth and Its Famous Baked Potatoes

Tucked between flashy food vendors selling deep-fried everything stands a humble wooden booth run entirely by local Boy Scouts and their volunteer leaders. For over 50 years, this unassuming stand has served what many consider the fair’s signature dish: enormous Idaho russet potatoes baked to fluffy perfection. The operation runs with military precision.

Scouts in uniform carefully wrap each potato in foil before placing them in specialized ovens. Once baked, these steaming spuds receive generous toppings; melted butter, sour cream, chives, bacon bits, and cheese.

More than just delicious food, these potatoes represent the largest annual fundraiser for local Scout troops. The money raised helps fund year-round activities, camping trips, and community service projects that benefit hundreds of local youth throughout Kern County.

3. Why These Potatoes Became a Local Legend

Size matters when it comes to these famous spuds. Each potato weighs nearly a pound before toppings, creating a meal substantial enough to fuel fairgoers through hours of exhibitions and rides. Unlike typical fair food that prioritizes novelty over substance, these potatoes offer remarkable value; hearty, satisfying, and reasonably priced.

The recipe hasn’t changed since 1972, creating a nostalgic connection for multiple generations. Parents who once visited the booth as children now bring their own kids to experience the tradition. The consistency in quality and preparation has created an almost cult-like following.

Many locals don’t consider their fair experience complete without stopping by the Scout booth. Social media has only amplified their popularity, with visitors posting photos of these massive loaded potatoes, spreading awareness beyond Kern County to food enthusiasts throughout California.

4. Fair Food Favorites Beyond the Potatoes

While the Scout potatoes reign supreme, the Kern County Fair boasts an impressive array of culinary offerings that attract food enthusiasts from across the state. The fair’s famous corn dogs feature hand-dipped batter made fresh daily, creating a crispy exterior that perfectly complements the savory interior. For those with a sweet tooth, the cinnamon rolls from Baker’s Bakery have achieved legendary status.

These massive, gooey creations emerge warm from the oven throughout the day, filling the midway with an irresistible aroma that draws crowds.

Local flavor shines through specialty items like Basque chorizo sandwiches, reflecting Bakersfield’s unique cultural heritage. The fair also embraces food innovation with offerings like deep-fried watermelon and bacon-wrapped turkey legs, ensuring even regular visitors discover new favorites alongside traditional standbys.

5. Entertainment and Attractions at the Kern County Fair

Beyond culinary delights, the fair delivers entertainment for all ages across multiple venues. The Budweiser Pavilion hosts nightly concerts featuring notable country music stars and rock bands, all included with regular admission. Families flock to the grounds early for agricultural exhibits where children can pet farm animals and learn about California’s agricultural heritage.

Thrill-seekers head straight for the carnival midway, home to dozens of rides from gentle carousels to heart-stopping roller coasters. The fair particularly shines with its commitment to showcasing local talent. High school bands perform daily, while the exhibition halls display thousands of entries in categories ranging from quilting to photography to homemade jams.

Community competitions like the demolition derby and rodeo events fill the grandstand with cheering crowds, creating an atmosphere that perfectly balances modern entertainment with cherished traditions.

6. Tips for Travelers Visiting Bakersfield During Fair Season

Smart visitors plan their Kern County Fair experience for weekday afternoons when crowds thin and lines for Scout potatoes shrink considerably. Hotel rooms throughout Bakersfield fill quickly during fair season, so reservations made at least one month in advance ensure the best rates and availability, particularly at properties near the fairgrounds.

Parking directly at the fairgrounds costs $10, but savvy locals use the free shuttle service from Valley Plaza Mall. This not only saves money but also eliminates the frustration of navigating crowded parking lots. September weather in Bakersfield can be unpredictable, often reaching 90°F during the day before cooling significantly after sunset.

Layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and refillable water bottles make for a more enjoyable experience. For those extending their stay, Bakersfield offers additional attractions like the California Living Museum and Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace.