The Kern County Fair in California transforms into a foodie paradise each September, with over 70 vendors cooking up a storm of flavors. Running from September 17-28, 2025, this Bakersfield tradition brings together classic fair treats and bold new culinary creations. Fairgoers can sample everything from reimagined comfort foods to international dishes while exploring the fairgrounds and enjoying the festivities.
A Taste of the Old School: Fair Classics Reimagined
Giant turkey legs smoke on massive grills while the scent of fresh funnel cakes dusted with powdered sugar fills the air. These nostalgic treats remain the backbone of the Kern County Fair experience, but vendors are giving classics modern makeovers.
Corn dogs now come wrapped in bacon or stuffed with cheese. Traditional cotton candy appears in unexpected flavors like watermelon-jalapeño and lavender-lemonade.
Longtime vendor Big Bubba’s Bad BBQ celebrates their 25th year at the fair with their famous jumbo smoked sausages, now offering a gourmet version topped with homemade apple slaw and bourbon sauce. These reimagined classics prove that even the most traditional fair foods can surprise and delight.
Flavor From Around the World: Diverse Culinary Crossovers
Passport not required for this global food journey through the fairgrounds. The international section transports taste buds across continents with authentic flavors and creative fusions.
The new Asian Fusion concession between Buildings 1 and 2 serves crispy wonton tacos filled with Korean BBQ beef and topped with kimchi slaw. Nearby, Greek vendors flip seasoned gyro meat while calling out orders for freshly made baklava.
Breads of the World, located near the Sales Pavilion, showcases how different cultures approach fried dough – from Mexican buñuelos dusted with cinnamon sugar to New Orleans-style beignets served in their famous “tub of fun.” These international offerings reflect California’s diverse cultural landscape.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: From Funnel Cakes to Local Delights
Sugar rushes await at every turn of the fairgrounds. The sweet section features both tried-and-true favorites and unexpected confections that push the boundaries of dessert innovation.
Sweets by J near the Budweiser Pavilion specializes in deep-fried Oreos and bubble waffles topped with ice cream and fresh fruit. The newly added Dole Whip stand offers a refreshing dairy-free alternative with swirls of pineapple soft serve.
Local honey producers showcase their amber treasures in unexpected ways – honey-drizzled fried chicken, honey milkshakes, and honey-glazed nuts. For the truly adventurous, one vendor specializes in chocolate-covered insects, marketing them as “protein-packed treats” – a conversation starter if nothing else!
Beyond the Bites: A Culinary Competition
Behind the food stalls lies a competitive spirit as fierce as any rodeo. The fair’s culinary competitions showcase Kern County’s finest home cooks and professional chefs battling for blue ribbons and bragging rights.
The annual Chili Cook-Off draws massive crowds as competitors stir massive pots of secret family recipes. Home bakers display stunning cake creations that transform sugar and flour into edible art.
Youth competitions encourage the next generation of culinary talent, with 4-H and FFA members presenting homemade jams, pickles, and baked goods. Judges evaluate entries on flavor, presentation, and technique. These competitions celebrate local food traditions while pushing participants to refine their skills and creativity year after year.
The Innovation Stand: Discover This Year’s Newest Fair Food
Food adventurers flock to the innovation stands where culinary boundaries dissolve. This year’s newcomer, Brian’s Baked Potato near the Grandstand, transforms humble spuds into loaded masterpieces topped with carne asada, pulled pork, and creative fixings.
The Chicken Stand (affectionately known as “Chicken Man”) pushes heat limits with Nashville hot chicken sandwiches that come with warning labels and cooling stations. Their “Inferno Challenge” draws brave souls willing to sign waivers before attempting their spiciest creation.
Sunset Grill introduces wood-fired pizza with unconventional toppings like mac and cheese, elote corn, and birria beef. These innovative vendors understand that fair food isn’t just about taste – it’s about creating memorable, Instagram-worthy experiences that fairgoers will talk about long after the event ends.
The Ultimate Fair Feast: How to Tackle the 70+ Vendors
Strategic planning transforms an overwhelming food landscape into a manageable feast. Veteran fairgoers recommend arriving with an empty stomach and a game plan.
Start by grabbing a fair map and circling must-try vendors. Consider sharing portions with friends to sample more varieties without reaching maximum capacity too quickly. The “fair food crawl” approach works best – small bites from multiple vendors rather than full meals from just a few.
Timing matters too. Lines are shortest during weekday afternoons and early evenings. Bring cash for quicker transactions, though most vendors now accept cards. Remember to pace yourself with water breaks between indulgences. With over 70 options, even the most dedicated foodie needs multiple visits to experience everything the Kern County Fair has to offer.
Local Farm-to-Fair Movement: Fresh Kern County Produce
Farm-fresh flavors shine at stands featuring locally grown Kern County produce. The agricultural heart of California takes center stage as farmers showcase the region’s bounty transformed into delicious fair treats.
Murray Family Farms’ stand serves strawberry shortcake made with berries picked just hours before. Their famous cherry lemonade uses fruit from their own orchards east of Bakersfield. The Almond Board of California offers samples of flavored almonds – from honey-roasted to wasabi – all harvested from local groves.
These farm-to-fair vendors educate visitors about seasonal growing cycles while serving incredibly fresh food. The “Taste of Kern” section highlights how the county’s diverse microclimates allow for year-round growing of everything from pistachios to carrots, connecting fairgoers directly to the source of their food.
Beverage Bonanza: Quenching Thirst Beyond Basic Sodas
Unique drink options flow as freely as the conversation at this year’s fair. Boba King near the livestock area serves customizable milk teas with five different boba options, creating a refreshing alternative to typical fair beverages.
Local breweries showcase Kern County’s growing craft beer scene at the beer garden, where limited-edition fair-themed brews like “Ferris Wheel IPA” and “Midway Haze” pair perfectly with savory fair foods. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, fresh-squeezed lemonade stands crush citrus to order, offering mix-ins like strawberry puree, cucumber, and mint.
The “Hydration Station” serves fruit-infused water for free – a welcome courtesy for families navigating the hot fairgrounds. These beverage options demonstrate that fair drinks have evolved far beyond paper cups of generic soda.
Health-Conscious Options: Finding Balance at the Fair
Contrary to deep-fried stereotypes, health-conscious options have carved out their own corner of the fairgrounds. Fresh fruit stands offer watermelon slices, fruit cups, and frozen banana dippers as lighter alternatives.
The “Green Scene” section features vendors specializing in plant-based versions of fair classics – jackfruit pulled “pork” sandwiches, cauliflower “wings,” and dairy-free soft serve. Protein-packed options include grilled chicken skewers, Greek salads topped with locally raised lamb, and hummus plates with fresh vegetables.
These healthier choices allow those with dietary restrictions or preferences to fully participate in the fair food experience. Vendors clearly mark gluten-free, vegan, and allergen-free items, making navigation easier for those with specific needs. The Kern County Health Department ensures all vendors maintain proper food safety standards regardless of what they serve.
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