Have a Blast at the Napa County Fair!

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The Napa Valley takes its 4th of July celebrations seriously, finding inspiration in its beloved nation for the entire Napa County Fair and a fireworks show that is one of the premier events of the season. With a classic parade through downtown Calistoga, followed by a day of throwback games, picnics, and other fairground shenanigans, the 4th of July is one of the best times of year to visit the Napa Valley. With art, live music, food demonstrations accompanied of course by delicious local wines, and other classy variations on the typical fair experience, the Napa County Fair is always a blast that encompasses the typical wine country experience.

Here are the highlights of the Napa County Fair.

4th of July Parade

As it marches throughout downtown Calistoga, catch the parade full of fantastical floats, decorated classic cars, live performers, and all other red, white, and blue novelties. Be sure to wear your trifecta of patriotic colors for this great way to kick off the day, which begins at 11 AM, and is an easy walk from the fairgrounds.

Chef Showcase

At the Napa Valley Building on the fairgrounds from 12 to 8 pm see a different chef every hour on the hour work their magic. The audience will be both fed, and served wine from award-winning chefs, as well as a soon-to-be TV personality. Stay tuned for the list of celebrated chefs presenting at this year’s Napa County Fair.

Kid Kountry

If you’re celebrating Independence Day with little ones, they will absolutely love a day at the fair! Head on over to Kid Kountry to check out Agville for some fun farm activities! Your kids can be a farmer for a day, grabbing a basket to gather eggs from the chicken coop, dig up potatoes, and pluck apples from the orchard. They can also learn to milk a cow and play fun farm-themed games.

Carnival Lawn

Check out the rides and attractions that range from the classic Ferris wheel and swings to the special additions like a zipline, rock climbing wall, and bungee jumping. There are also face painting and craft-making booths, as well as a maze and dunk tank that the kids will love!

Competition at the Napa County Fair

True to a great community event, the fair is also a place where prizes are dawned on the nation’s most talented winemakers, chefs, artists, gardeners, farmers, and hobbyists. The Amateur Wine Competition is a favorite annual event, as well as an internationally acclaimed contest for up and coming wineries. There are even whole youth sections for most of the categories, as well as in Video Arts. Be sure to stop by the Napa Valley Building to check out some talent and get a taste of delectable products.

This 4th of July celebration is seriously top notch. If you’re a sucker for fairs, parades and fireworks, you will fall in love with Napa Valley’s version of independence Day, and one of the only authentic county fairs left. For more ideas of things to do while visiting the area, check out this handy Napa Valley Vacation Guide!